《Immanent Ascension》
Chapter 1: Knives (1)
Chapter 1: Knives (1)
I ran into a mage once! a farmer shouted from near the front. Four foot tall, buck teeth, and talked with a lisp. Gave me some cheek, so punched him in the face! He dropped like a sack of turnips!
Thement drew a handful ofughs in the crowdedmon room of the tavern. Xerxes wasnt particrly amused, but wasnt offended. Hed heard more than his fair share of mage jokes. Hed even told a few.
On the stage was a bard wearing bedraggled finery. Instead ofmenting on the joke, he chose to take a sip of wine and tune his lyre.
Xerxes friend Gandash didnt take as kindly to the joke.
Bastard, he growled, his hand clenching into a fist. Ill show him what happens if you try to punch a mage.
Ignore him, Xerxes said. He raised his tankard. Come on, drink.
Gandashs hand rxed as he lifted his own drinking vessel. Yeah, sure. Cheers.
The two friends clinked tankards and drank deeply. Themon rooms aroma was abination of firewood, roasted meat, curry, stale alcohol, sweaty people, and mold. There was also a touch of something exotic, a smell thatmon rooms in the capital didnt have. Maybe it was from the ancient Yellow Forest that bordered the town, its odor carried in by the hunters and trappers that formed a constantly shifting migrant poption here.
Xerxes wasnt sure. All he knew was that this ce smelled interesting.
Outside, the rain pounded down relentlessly, making him d to be in the warmth, with a tankard of cool ale and a te of food, instead of out on the road like theyd been for the past weeks.
Before they could put their drinking vessels down, a slurred voice rose from another corner of the room.
Did ya know that in Od, the mage women are all ores? A shekel an our they charge, at the temples!
Like ell! another voice replied.
Swear on the Pontifarch imself! Ida sampled one meself, if Id ad a shekel to spare.
Youve never even been to Od, ya lout!
As a ripple ofughter passed through the room, then settled into a general buzz of conversation.
These idiots, Gandash said, putting his tankard down and tensing as if to stand up.
Its not worth it, said Xerxes. These people arent even Sighted. Who cares about them?
Yeah, guess youre right. Good thing Bel and Captain Ishki went to sleep early.
Xerxes and Gandash were both Isin-born mages, but their fellow mage Bel was from Od, as was the officer in charge of the entire convoy, Captain Ishki.
This is great, isnt it? Xerxes said. Out on the open road, in an actual tavern. Sitting with the locals. Drinking ale. Were actual mages now, Gandash, on a real mission for the Mage Parliament. Can you believe it?
Gandashs previous dark expression softened, and he grinned, his dark eyes glittering. I can believe it, Xerk. What else did you think was gonna happen when the two of us made Seer?
Before they could continue their conversation, the bard cleared his throat and said, Given the talk of mages, good friends, shall I y you a bad of magic and folklore?
Yes! a few voices shouted.
Please, dont, Gandash muttered, running a hand through his thick brown hair.
Xerxes chuckled. Not all songs about magic are bad.
Just most.
The bards fingers danced briefly on the strings of the lute, and the patrons in themon room quieted.
I can think of a few tunes pertaining to the eerie and miraculous, the bard said. Is there any particr number youd prefer?
Nows our chance, Gandash said, to make sure he doesnt sing Wizard Passes Wind.
Xerxes groaned. Good point. Well, youre the music-lover. Why dont you make a request?
As the bard plucked a few more strings, Gandash turned his eyes up in thought. Then he smacked the rough wood of the table before raising his hand. Hey, bard, he said loudly, do you know Maribels Magic?
The bards eyes lit up. A ssic! Very well, friends and neighbors, prepare your hearts and ears as I sing a bad sung in starisles far and near! Hopefully you dont mind if I put my own personal spin on the lyrics.
What does that mean? Gandash said.
Xerxes shrugged. Guess well find out.
The bard stamped his foot on the wooden stage to create a basic rhythm, then he began strumming a melody.
Keeping his voice low, Xerxes said, How does this guy know what people sing on other starisles, anyway? I doubt hes ever been out of Isin, let alone off.
Neither have you, Xerk, Gandash said.
Hmm fair point.
The bard went from a seemingly random melody into the opening refrain for Maribels Magic, which was a lively tune intended to get the whole room singing. Other patrons were already starting to tap feet or fingers to the rhythm.
After ying through the main melody, the bard started singing.
Maribel was a mage unlike any other,
Shed have made an excellent mother,
But when I saw her casting a spell
I knew she was a snuffer!
Xerxes felt a hand on his shoulder as someone squeezed onto the bench next to him. He looked to his left to see a portly man settling next to him, wearing a rumpled soldiers uniform. He had a bit of a hunch to his back, and pocked skin that made him seem unhealthy. But both young mages knew that he was a veteran of multiple wars, and was a beast with sword and javelin alike.
This fellow aint alf bad, the soldier said, talking in a soft lisp thanks to the fact that he was missing both of his front teeth.
Giving him a friendly elbow jab, Xerxes said, Hey, Gem.
Hey, Xerk, the soldier replied. Gandy. Ows the ale, fes?
Not bad, Xerxes said.
Nasty, Gandash said at almost the same time.
Gemughed. Sounds like my kind of swill.
Chapter 1: Knives (2)
Chapter 1: Knives (2)
As the soldier waved down one of the serving girls, the bard reached the first chorus, and virtually everyone in the tavern lent their voice to the effort.
Dinner under the stars
We ended up with scars!
What could be more tragic,
Than Maribels Magic?
The song told the story of love gone awry between a noble prince and a mage named Maribel. In the usual version, Maribel was portrayed as beautiful but moody, while the singer of the song was naive and lustful. However, this bard tweaked the lyrics to change the meaning, turning Maribel into a misunderstood romantic, while the singer seemed depressed that he wasnt a mage of her caliber.
Okay, I think I like this version, Gandash said after the third chorus.
Same, Gem said as the serving girl swept by and dropped a tankard in front of him. Picking it up, he said, Cheers, boys.
The three of them drank and enjoyed the rest of the bards rendition of Maribels Magic. By the end, the room was in a frenzy, screaming the chorus and stamping feet and pping hands with such vigor that the entire tavern seemed to shake.
After the bard finished, he stood and bowed to thunderous apuse and quite a few lewdments.
Id give Maribel a good time. Or two! Bahahaha!
What ol Maribel needs aint a mage, its a good strong man!
Xerxes could see Gandash grinding his teeth. It was obvious his friend was still irritated at the locals crude jokes about mages.
Come on, Gandy, Xerxes said, theyre just farmers and bumpkins. I bet nobody heres ever even seen a real life mage before.
Es right, Gem said. Dont take it to eart.
It just pisses me off, Gandash said. Gem, do you know how hard Xerxes and I worked to get to this point? Seers at only sixteen years old? Already sent on a mission from the capital? And they talk about us like were either fools or limpdicks or
Ey, calm down, Gem said, putting a hand on Gandashs forearm.
Yeah, Xerxes added, who gives a shit what they think, anyway?
Gandash didnt seem convinced, and continued to re around as various raucousments andughter wafted about. The bard had left the stage and was presumably taking a break before starting another set. It waste, but not thatte, and there was no way the tavern or the bard were going to miss out on the coin a crowd like this would turn over.
With the military convoy in town, of which Gem, Gandash, and Xerxes were part of, there was business the likes of which a ce like this normally wouldnt see outside of major festivals. There were soldiers, woodsmen, and locals as well, and the entire room buzzed with energy.
The convoy had been on the road for the better part of a month, and this was thest bit of civilization before they headed out into the wild forest. Their mission wasnt inherently dangerous or particrly interesting, being little more than an inspection of a castle close to the border. But the soldiers were happy to rx a bit and spend some time without mud-spattered boots and nights spent on hard bedrolls.
As they waited for the bard to return for his next set, Gem tried to make some small talk. Xerxes amodated, but Gandash clearly wasnt having it, and seemed more interested in cocking his ear to listen for any untteringments made about mages. Xerxes knew what was going on. Normally speaking, Gandash wasnt as sensitive as this. But these tankards of ale were big, and he was on his second one already. The alcohol was getting to him. And given how mages seemed to have be something of a theme already, it was a given that more jokes and stories would be heard as the evening wore on.
Xerxes weighed his options. Thest thing they needed to do was provoke some sort of tavern brawl. If that happened, Captain Ishki would have their hides. She was from Od just like Bel was, but Xerxes knew full well that she wouldnt give a rats ass if these yokels made a few bawdyments about mages or people from Od.
Struck with a sudden idea, he said, Hey, Gem, I have an idea.
Yeah, Xerk?
What if we did a little demonstration for these Unsighted gentlefolk? Show them in and simple what a mage can do?
Gem grinned widely, revealing the huge gap made by his missing teeth. Whaddya ave in mind?
Xerxes exined his n and Gems grin widened. Even Gandashs frown had leveled out and seemed on the verge of turning into a smile.
Agreed? Xerxes said.
What if someones seen that trick before? Gem asked.
Xerxes shrugged. y it by ear?
Gem nodded. Alright. Lets do it! Been a while since I''ve been part of a show. Without any further discussion, he smacked his hand loudly on the table and rose into a standing position. Friends! he shouted over the buzz of conversation, and quite a few heads turned in his direction. pping twice, he raised his voice even louder and said, Friends! I ave a bit of an announcement to make!
The room quieted even further.
Allow me to introduce myself. My very short and simple name is Gemegishkirihat, and Im but an umble soldier from the capital!
Hisment provoked someughter. His long name was something of a running joke among the soldiers, although there was another soldier in the group who had a simrly long appetion.
Continuing, Gem said, I am passing through your most lovely town along with my fellow soldiers and mages.
Xerxes and Gandash werent soldiers, so they didnt need to wear uniforms. At the moment, they wore utilitarian travel clothing that made it impossible to guess anything about them. And even if they had been wearing their mage attire, it was unlikely rustic folk such as this would have realized what it was.
As Gem let his words hang for a moment, the room grew more quiet. Xerxes took the opportunity to look around and gauge the feeling of the crowd. Most people seemed curious, and perhaps slightly apprehensive.
Chapter 1: Knives (3)
Chapter 1: Knives (3)
You eard me right, Gem continued. My two friends are no soldiers. Nay, theyre mages, assigned by the Mage Parleement itself to watch over our convoy. Unfortunately, one of them as taken issue with some of the rather crudements weve heard. In fact, Im both nervous and disappointed to say that this mage is considering turning the lot of you into toads or sheep.
Which absolutely wasnt possible. Seers who studied the Sinitu order of magic could indeed perform transmutations of the physical form. In other words, shapeshifting. But neither Seers nor High Seers of that order could transmute multiple people into toads or sheeps. Above the Seer level were the Mystics. And while Sinitu Mystics could perform mass transmutations for a very short time, and a Sinitu High Mystic could cast such a spell that wouldst about an hour, neither could make the effects permanent. Not that it was relevant considering neither Xerxes, Gandash, or Bel were Sinitu mages.
Of course, these Unsighted farmers didnt know much at all about how magic worked, and from the looks on the faces of various crowd members, ranging from slightly nervous to outright fearful, it seemed Gems monologue was having the intended effect. They were really starting to look sufficiently cowed.
Thankfully, Gem said, I intervened on your behalf. And instead of casting spells, my friend decided that a simple demonstration of magical skill would convince you of the amazing nature of the mages in our kingdom. Thus, Id like to introduce you to my friend Xerxes son of Ataneedusu, a Seer of the Asgagu order, born and raised in the capital, and a mage of immense power and insight.
Xerxes was just preparing to stand up when someone in the crowd spoke up.
Asgagu? said a skinny man with a deep tan that could onlye from long days working outside in the fields. Aint that the kind of magic?
Gem nodded. Exactly, my farmer friend. You see, Xerxes could probably ughter every one of you in this room while ardly breaking a sweat, and definitely without a prick of conscience. In fact, back in the capital, I was personally present when e removed the eads of seventeen brigands. But only after dismembering them first!
Quite a few gasps could be heard in therge room, and Xerxes nearlyughed at the stricken looks on the faces of most of the surrounding customers. Those near him edged away as best they could. Of course, Gems story waspletely poppycock. Xerxes had never killed a single person in his life, let alone tortured seventeen criminals to death.
Xerxes eyes flickered to Gandash, and he could see that his friend was now smiling broadly.
Good, Xerxes thought. Now, as long as I can keep him that way, we can end this evening the happy way.
Fear not! Gem shouted with a theatrical flourish of his arm. The man could well have been a showman instead of a grizzled soldier. For Ive convinced Seer Xerxes to restrain imself. Instead, ell show you a simple training exercise that would shock experienced, professional acrobats in the capital. After all, not even the most skilled Unsighted acrobats could ope to match a Seer. Xerxes, my friend, would you like to take the stage?
My turn, Xerxes thought. ncing around very quickly to note the locations of all the soldiers, who he was still working very hard to impress, he mbered onto the table, raised his arms in a rough approximation of Gems theatrical gesture and said, Ladies and then he cut himself off, looked around, and sighed. My apologies,dies, I dont see many gentlemen present.
The serving girls allughed, as did the handful of women present in themon room. And the soldiers, to Xerxes pleasure. The reaction among the rest of the men present was mixed, and included everything from chuckles to groans. Many of the men still seemed shaken from Gems dramatic monologue about the terrifying nature of mages.
Smiling, Xerxes said, Im just kidding, friends. Truth be told, in all my travels through our fair kingdom of Isin, Ive never seen such a group of honorable folk as yourself. Believe me, back in the capital, we mages know that our nation survives only because of the hard work of loyal and talented Unsighted such as yourselves.
An approving buzz rose briefly in the room, and many of the ashen expressions seemed to be changing slightly.
Clear the way, friends! Xerxes said, then bent his legs and jumped with the agility of a feline hunter onto the next table. The wood thumped dully under his boots, and the patrons leaned out of his way as made a second jump,nding square on the stage.
Twirling to face the crowd, he raised his voice and said, Honorable patrons of this establishment, you may be aware that mages are inherently stronger and faster than an ordinary person. But that doesnt mean we cant improve ourselves. And thus, every morning and evening on the road, I strive to better myself, from reactions and reflexes, tobat skill and magical abilities.
Also scrambling onto the table, Gem said, Friends, observe the superhuman strength and speed of a Seer!
Before anyone knew what was happening, a brace of knives appeared in Gems hand, each of them about a hand long including handle and de. They were real knives, but with dull edges as they were designed for throwing. That said, they were sharp enough at the point to pierce into wood, let alone skin.
During the short moment in which Gem spoke, Xerxes, having gauged the distance between the two of them, took half a step back.
Watch! Gem said, pulling out one of the knives, cing the de between his fingers and holding it up in front of his face.
Bring it on, old man! Xerxes said.
Gem threw the knife seemingly with all his might, and it whizzed through the air toward Xerxes.
Chapter 1: Knives (4)
Chapter 1: Knives (4)
The truth was that Seers were indeed inherently superior to the Unsighted. After all, the Unsighted were blind to the mm energy that mages used, both to fuel their casting of spells and also to be stronger practitioners of the arcane arts. There was no pejorative implication to the term Unsighted, as the overwhelming majority of the poption was made up of such people. Young ones within whom magic awakened in the teenage years were called Sighted, and they quickly became faster and stronger than ordinary people. In any case, a Seer, who was a person who had gathered enough mm to form an internal chamber of energy, was even stronger and tougher than a Sighted.
However such strength and speed had nothing to do with the demonstration being carried out by Gem and Xerxes.
This exercise was a trick Xerxes had been taught by his father at a young age, and was something he practiced regrly as a way of improving reflexes and gauging the speed, direction, and spin of thrown objects. It was a skill simr to the type jugglers honed, and was not rted to magic at all.
After being assigned this mission, and learning that Gem was handy with throwing knives, the two of them had taken to practicing on virtually a daily basis, and as such, Xerxes probably could have caught the knife with his eyes closed.
Just to be safe, though, he paid close attention to the position of Gems feet, how far he pulled his hand back, where he released the knife, the amount of spin, and all the other minutiae. After all, Xerxes had been drinking, so he wasnt exactly in the ideal condition to be ying with sharp, pointy objects.
The knife spun once through the air. To Xerxes, it almost flew in slow motion, but to everyone else, it traveled so quickly they could barely track its motion. Of course, they had no idea that Gem intentionally put less spin on the knife than was necessary, such that, by the time it reached Xerxes, it was pointing almost straight up. If Xerxes somehow failed to get his hand up in time, and the knife hit his chest, it would bounce harmlessly away.
But it didnt hit him.
Xerxes grabbed the knife out of the air with a casual motion, then held it out for everyone to see.
Some oohs and aahs could be heard in the crowd, and a mustachioed soldier from Squad One named Rihan, who was seated in a booth against the far wall, cried out, Nice one, Xerk!
Yeah, another soldier said. Show them what you mages are made of!
Xerxes heart swelled with pride at the soldiers praise, especially Rihan.
Gem threw another knife and Xerxes caught it. He disyed it to the audience along with half of a bow.
Another knife flew toward him in a blur.
Xerxes caught that one, too.
There were more oohs and aahs, and even some scattered apuse. Xerxes couldnt help but revel a bit in the rush he experienced from being the center of attention like this.
And now, the finale! Gem said, drawing thest two knives out and dropping the bracer to the table below. Chuckling loudly, he said, Get ready, little mage!
Littlepared to you, fatso! Xerxes shot back with a theatrical smirk, as he kept his eyes locked onto Gems.
Gem threw both knives at the same time. Xerxes, the smile never leaving his face, caught both of them. I might as well have kept my eyes closed, he said, trying to sound a bit bored.
The crowd erupted into cheering, and Xerxes went into a deep bow, while simultaneously ncing at Gandash. His friend was pping and cheering, and there didnt seem to be a shadow of his previous negativity.
Mission aplished, Xerxes thought.
And so, my friends, Gem said, projecting his voice above the din, please watch your tongue when speaking of mages, at least while we lowly capital folk are in town!
Thank you, good patrons! Xerxes said. Then he took a step forward and was about to hop off the stage when another voice rose above the crowd. It was deep and booming, the type that indicated it came from a person of unusual size and strength.
Bullshit!
A new hush fell over the crowd as numerous heads turned toward the source of the ringing voice. A bear of a man in the clothing of a woodsman had risen to his feet at a nearby table. He had shoulders twice as broad as Gems, a jaw so chiseled it could have taken the ce of a carpenters square, and a mouth that seemed curled in a perpetual sneer.
Hey, quiet down, Biru, someone said.
Yeah, its all just in good
Bullshit, I say, Biru repeated, with more force than before. I been to the capital on thrice asions, and saw with my own eyes this very trick performed by street jugglers! It aint got nothing to do with magics!
Well now, sir, Gem said, but before he could continue with any manner of exnation or reasoning, the man named Biru reached to his belt and pulled out a gleaming woodsmans knife, nearly half a cubit long and clearly sharpened to a razors gleam. This was the kind of weapon that could probably be used to kill a bear and fell a tree, much less inflict injuries on fellow human beings.
Xerxes managed to keep his eyes from going wide, but in his heart, was already scrambling toe up with a n for how to deal with the situation. It was one thing to catch throwing knives tossed by arade with skill and ability. But if this brutish Biru threw a hunting knife at him from that close, Xerxes could well end up losing fingers or worse if he tried to catch it.
Look, friend, Xerxes said, I just wanted
Catch this, you lying mage! Biru said, hurling the knife at Xerxes.
Chapter 2: Exploring (1)
Chapter 2: Exploring (1)
Fuck! Xerxes blurted, lunging to the side.
As the bulky knife flipped end over end, the bottom of the hilt caught his shoulder, halting the weapons momentum and causing it to tter to the floor.
Biru roared withughter. See! Damn mages are chatans and ucksters, I tell ya!
Many in the crowd joined him inughter, although not all. It seemed Gems exaggerated tale still lingered in the minds of many present.
As a few coarsements were thrown here and there, Xerxes reached up and rubbed his shoulder where the knife hilt had hit him. His eyes shifted for a moment as he sought Gandash in the crowd, and saw that the smile had left his friends face, to be reced by a glower. He also looked at some of the shoulders. In the booth, Rihan was frowning. On the other side of the room, Sergeant Aniskipel was shaking his head.
You just made a mistake, Biru, Xerxes thought.
Tilting his head left and right to crack his neck, he took a deep breath and forced himself to stand straighter.
Reaching down subconsciously to check that his spellponent pouch was in ce at his belt, he pointed at Biru and loudly said, Hey, you! Bitch.
What the ell did you just call me? Biru snarled, stepping away from the table.
You heard what I said. If you want to make this a real contest,e up here and let me show you what mages are really like.
Biru sniggered derisively.
Xerk Gem said.
Xerxes held up his hand. I got this.
Fine, you little runt, Biru said, cracking his knuckles and walking toward the stage.
Xerxes watched hime. Before he took three steps, Xerxes had a read on him. The man wasnt a fighter, at least, not in any professional sense of the word. Hed probably cracked a few heads and noses in brawls, but he didnt have any training, either as a soldier or as a martial artist.
Xerxes, in contrast, had been training as a fighter since he was only five or six years old.
Though his father was Sighted, the gift wasnt always passed down through families. In other words, mages who had children didnt know if their offspring would follow an arcane path, at least not until they reached puberty, whereupon the gift would either manifest or not. In some cases, a mage could sire many generations in which no Sighted appeared. In other cases, a Sighted could pop up seemingly out of nowhere.
The result was that most mages operated under the assumption that their children wouldnt be Sighted, and would thus provide them an education and potential career path that didnt have anything to do with magic. In Xerxes case, his father had hoped his son would eventually go into the military.
Of course, given all his martial training, after he did be Sighted, it went almost without saying he would study the order of Asgagu, which was the most martial of the magic paths.
Birus ignorance regarding magic-users was no surprise. There were only about seventy mages on the entire of Mannemid, and roughly thirty who were native Isinians. Formon folk like these, mages were heard about in stories or sung about in songs, but rarely, if ever, seen in person.
The stage formed a half-circle, with the widest section against the wall being roughly fifteen feet from end to end. As Biru neared the short set of stairs on the side, Xerxes stepped back.
While allowing the hulking man to climb up and join him, Xerxes kept a close eye on him, just in case he tried an unannounced rush or some other equally sneaky trick.
Let me tell you the rules of fighting in a ce like this, mage, Biru said, cracking his knuckles. No killing. Thats about it!
Heughed at his ownment, but this time, only two or three people in the crowd joined him.
Come on, Biru, es a kid, someone called.
A lying mage kid! Biru snapped.
Xerxes was starting to get angry. He didnt need to look at Gandash to know his friend was fuming. All the work Xerxes had done to defuse the situation was for naught. That wasnt to mention how all of this was happening in front of dozens of soldiers who had only recently begun to ept him as a friend.
Therefore, he wasnt inclined to waste time.
If there arent any rules, he said, taking a step forward, then theres no need to jabber.
Listen, runt, I just want to make sure you dontin when
Xerxes moved forward with speed that only a mage could match. Before Biru knew what was happening, Xerxes grabbed both his arm and the front of his tunic, stepped to the side, and then threw the giant man over his hip to the ground.
Birus face smashed into the wood of the stage, and he grunted. Before he could recover, Xerxes half-knelt, clenched his hand into a fist, and punched the mans jaw. Once. Twice. Three times.
It took that many to render him unconscious, even with the strength of a Seer. It was impressive. After confirming the man was out cold, Xerxes stood, hooked his foot under Birus hip, andunched him off of the stage.
Biru sailed through the air and crashed onto the table hed risen from, sending ale and food sttering everywhere. Birus friends cried in rm, some of them jumping away from his tumbling form. Two of them, quick thinkers apparently, threw their hands out to stop his fall, preventing him from rolling on to the floor.
Xerxes brushed his hands off, looked around at the crowd, and said, Anyone else care to give a try? I really dont feel like casting any spells tonight, but I will if I have to.
He let his hand rest meaningfully on hisponent pouch.
Nobody responded to his challenge.
You showed em, Xerk, Rihan said loudly, and Xerxes stifled a grin as he hopped off the stage and threaded his way back toward Gandash and Gem.
Meanwhile, the bard had returned.
I havent seen a fight like that since I left Mannemid as ad, he said loudly. It reminds me of an old bad from Ira, which as you know, is a starisle of such immense mor and.
Xerxes tuned the bard out as he sat back down.
Gem smacked his shoulder affectionately. Well done, Xerk. You make an old man proud!
Yeah, Gandash said. You handled him like a champ. Cheers!
All threepanions raised their tankards and drank.
The evening went without any further mishaps. Biru eventually regained consciousness, and scuttled out of the tavern nursing his jaw, his woodsman friends clustered around him, most of them casting dagger-like res at Xerxes along the way.
Rihan joined them shortly, and then a soldier from Squad Two named Goran, who everyone made fun of for being bald. Both of them praised Xerxes performance, and though Xerxes tried hard to keep the pride from showing on his face, he failed.
They continued drinking and snacking into the night. Eventually, Gemunched into some old war stories.
Its been a while since I talked about the battle of the Red Castle, he said. Everybody loves a good castle story, right?
It never ceased to amaze Xerxes how many stories the older man had to tell. And it seemed like each one either had an important moral to it, or was just downright hrious.
Xerxes forced Gandash to switch from ale to water at a certain point. Mages got faster and tougher as their magic grew stronger, and they even developed mental abilities that surpassed ordinary humans. But, s, they werent blessed with unusual alcohol tolerance. The convoy was going to be in this remote town for an entire day before Captain Ishki led them out into the Yellow Forest. Xerxes wanted to spend thatst day exploring the town, not helping his friend nurse a hangover.
The next morning, Xerxes woke with only a tingle in the back of his head to remind him of the previous nights activities. Gandash was in the other bed snoring.
Poking open the shutters of their shared room, Xerxes saw that it was raining, but not very hard.
Perfect day to look around town, he thought.
He woke Gandash, who seemed a bit sluggish andined of a headache, but was otherwise fine.
As they prepared for the day, Xerxes looked at his two most important possessions: his sword, which was leaning up against the wall next to the bed, and his spellponent pouch, sitting next to Gandashs on the dresser under the window.
Doubt well be fighting a battle in the town square, he thought, and decided to forgo the trouble of strapping on his weapon. It was even less likely that he would cast a spell while out shopping in the town. However, their instructors at the Academy had always emphasized the importance of a mage carrying theirponent pouch at all times.
Thest thing to aplish before heading down to themon room for breakfast was morning prayer. Xerxes finished in a few seconds, but Gandash, who took praying a lot more seriously, went on for a good minute or two. Xerxes didnt interrupt.
With all preparations out of the way, they went down to a breakfast of tbread and groundmb seasoned to the hilt with yellow curry.
Their fellow mage Bel joined them a few minutester.
Hey, Gandash said.
Morning, Xerxes added through a mouthful of tbread andmb.
Morning to you too, she said in her characteristic soft voice. Being from Od, which Isinians considered a somewhat barbard, she looked different from Xerxes and Gandash. Both young men had dark hair and eyes, while she was pale, both her eyes and skin. She was tall, with broad shoulders, and hair bound into numerous tight braids that hung down her back. Her facial features were even more unusualpared to theirs, as she had sharp cheekbones andrge, nted eyes that made her stand out, especially in a far corner of Isin like this. In fact, she was so obviously from Od that if shed been in themon roomst night, it would have been much less likely the locals would have cracked jokes at her expense. After all, women from Od had the reputation of reacting with violence when they got angered, though that was primarily an exaggeration.
After calling for the same breakfast as Xerxes and Gandash, Bel poured herself some water and said, I was told things got heatedst night.
Gandash smiled. Did you hear Xerxes knocked some asshole out cold?
I heard. The guy had iting, apparently. Nice work handling it so quickly, Xerk.
It was Gandys idea, Xerxes said.
Oh? Bel leaned back slightly as a serving girl put a te of tbread andmb on the table.
Aw,e on, it wasnt like that, Gandash said.
Bel started eating. How was it, then?
Some assholes were making jokes about Od. And mages in general. I was about ready to start throwing fists, but Xerk and Gem jumped up to do a knife-catching show. Gandash went on to tell the story of what happened. Bel was suitably impressed.
They chatted as they finished breakfast, and when they were done, Xerxes said, Okay, time to check out the town in the daylight.
Sounds good, Gandash said.
Before walking out the door, they made preparations for the rain. Bel and Gandash threw their hoods up, while Xerxes donned the wide-brimmed hat he preferred. That was when Bel said, Oh, I left myponent pouch upstairs.
Its not like were going to do any spellcasting while shopping, Gandash said.
"Besides," Xerxes added, "this ce isn''t a slum like, say, Harborview. There''s a whole constable force keeping the peace."
Bel shrugged. "I guess you''re right."
Chapter 2: Exploring (2)
Chapter 2: Exploring (2)
Xerxes loved the rain. Isins capital city was located on the coast in the south, and had a temperate climate in which rain was rare and snow was even rarer. He loved the smell of water from the sky, and out here so far from civilization, that smell was even better, mixed with the odor of trees and grass. Everything about this mission so far had been like a dreame true.
Thanks tost nights downpour, the streets were pure mud. But this was Isin, and even though it was a small town, they still had wooden walkways to keep the mud at bay.
It was a typical small border town, although Xerxes had no experience traveling in such ces, so it was all new to him. The tavern was located on one of the main thoroughfares. To the right, perhaps two hundred cubits away, was the main square, which was the center of town. The same distance in the opposite direction was one of the towns four entrance gates, beyond which was nothing but open road.
Although there were wars fought on Mannemid, things had been peaceful for years. What was more, this area was far from any location where armies would take the field, so it was no surprise the town didnt have walls. As for the gates, they werent functional, and did little more than provide a visible demarcation between the town proper and the outside. Inside the boundaries formed by the gates, the buildings were primarily one or two stories tall, with only two of them having a third floor, those being the town hall that also housed the constabry, and the local church. Most buildings were wooden structures, although there were some sturdier edifices constructed from brick. There were even a few whose walls were covered with ster.
The look and feel of the town was definitely different from the capital, where the weather was dry and dusty almost year round.
Whats this ce called again? Gandash asked as they walked toward the main square.
Forgot, Xerxes said.
Bel came to the rescue. Kisiga.
Xerxes nodded. Right. Town of Kisiga. I dont think Ive ever been to a ce this small.
Belughed softly. My hometown is smaller.
Were snooty city folk, Gandash said, so what do you expect?
They soon entered the town square, which would be filled with tents and stalls on market day, but was currently empty.
Xerxes looked left and right. In addition to the road theyd just walked down from the tavern, there were three other roads leading in the other cardinal directions. Well, here we are. Center of town. Which way to the interesting stuff?
I noticed a weapon shop when we arrived, Bel said. Its down that way. And Captain Ishki told me theres a bookshop around here somewhere that stocks ancient texts.
Well, if we have to pick between books and weapons, Xerxes said, Im going to vote for weapons.
Gandash cleared his throat. Id vote for books, but I know Bels going to pick weapons too.
You know me too well, Belughed. She was soft spoken, but that didnt mean she was soft willed. The people of Od didnt gain their barbarian reputation out of nowhere; just like Xerxes, shed trained in the fighting arts since youth. In fact, she and Xerxes had long been sparring partners, ever since they were Sighted disciples fresh at the Academy.
As they turned northward and headed down the street, something caught Xerxes attention out of the corner of his eye. Turning, he saw a flicker of motion in a nearby alley, as though someone had been standing there and then ducked out of sight.
Beggar? Xerxes thought. Surely not in a remote border town like this. Then who?
Shrugging, he followed Bel and Gandash down the street. It only took about five minutes to find the weapons shop shed referred to. Bel and Gandash threw their hoods back, while Xerxes removed his hat and snapped it free of water.
Upon stepping inside, they found themselves surrounded by the smell of leather and oil, although there was a faint undertone of musty wood as well. There were racks of weapons on all the walls, as well as barrels filled with things like staves, spears, and the like. A lone shelf had a few books on it, presumably fighting manuals, strategy treatises and the like, and there was a dusty-looking tapestry that depicted some sort of spear duel.
Xerxes initial impression was that it was mostly junk. He saw spears and swords that had clearly seen many years of service before retiring along with whatever soldiers had wielded them. There were knives, staves, bows, polearms, a few exotic weapons. One section of the wall had axes and swords carved from wood and clearly designed for use in training.
Wee, said a creaky voice. Xerxes looked to the back of the shop, where a wizened old man sat behind a cluttered counter polishing thick eyesses with a strip of cloth.
Hello, sir, Gandash said, offering a short bow. Were from
The capital, the old man said with augh. I know. Figured some a you soldiersde by soon enough. Dont they and out lots o swords and the like for ya back in the capital?
That they do, Gandash said with a nod. But were interested in what unique wares might be avable this far from the heart of the kingdom.
Xerxes, used to his friend taking the lead when it came to formalities and social interactions with elders, stepped toward the right-side wall of the shop to take a closer look at the weapons there. Bel went in the opposite direction.
Aint no better ce for weapons collecting in Kisiga than this ere shop, I tell ya that. The old man put a final effort into polishing his sses, then tossed the cloth somewhere behind the counter.
Now that he was closer to the collection of weapons, Xerxes could see that his previous assessment was in no way incorrect. These weapons were all old and used. Some were of superior craftsmanship to others, but none were masterworks by any stretch of the imagination.
Have anything special? Bel asked, reaching out to run her hand along the shaft of a spear. Behind the counter or in the back room?
Well of course, the old man said, putting his sses on. I dont keep the fancy and expensive stuff sitting out in the open. Even in a little ce like this, theres still folks with sticky fingers. It was only at this point that he finally looked at Bel. Well, in the name of the Pontifarch, you sure are a looker! Aint never seen air that fair since my youth! Whats a beauty from Od doing out in the middle of nowhere ere?
Bel looked over at him with a faint smile. Work.
Ah right. Soldiering and all that.
Xerxes had always treated Bel like a friend. But it would have been a lie if he imed not to have discussed her physical appearance with Gandash. Xerxes happened to feel that Bel wasnt particrly attractive. She looked too different as far as he was concerned. Too tall,pared to Isinian girls, and her skin tone was all wrong. Her shoulders were too broad, and her hips were too narrow.
Gandash, on the other hand, had been smitten with her from day one, though hed hidden it well throughout the years.
Sir, Xerxes said, what are these special weapons you mentioned? Have any swords, by chance?
Yeah I ave a fancy sword. Plus an ax from a local cksmith two generations back that was considered a master. And a spear from Fal.
Fal was the third kingdom in the triumvirate of governments that held sway over Mannemids sole, sprawling continent. It was neither the strongest, nor the most feared, but it was the richest, and as a result, it had a reputation for high craftsmanship.
However, Xerxes didnt care much for spears and axes. His weapon was the sword, and though the one leaning against his bed back in the tavern was by no means junk, neither was it something he felt particrly proud to wield. It had seen many years of use before it became Xerxes, and it looked its age. But on Mannemid, swords of the type he preferred were slim pickings. He practiced a style that wasntmon in Isin, Fal, or Od. It was an off-world way of fighting, and it required off-world swords that were much longer and slimmer than the short bronze typemon among soldiers andmoners alike.
After encountering sses taught by a foreigner in the capital, hed fallen in love with the unusual sword and the unique way of fighting that went with it.
Id like to see the special sword, Xerxes said. Axes and spears arent really my thing.
The old man nodded knowingly. Youre that type, eh? Well, sorry to say, unless you like gigantic silly-looking swords, I doubt this ones for you.
Xerxes ears perked up, but before he could say anything, Gandash said, Gigantic swords. My friend loves gigantic swords!
Is that so? In that case, you wait right ere, Ill be back in a minute. He hopped off of the stool hed been sitting on, then hobbled away into the rear of the shop.
Getting excited? Bel asked.
Xerxes pshawed. Yeah right. What are the chances a shop at the edge of the world has a longsword for sale?
You never know. My favorite bow doesnte from Od. I found it in a second-hand shop in a back alley in Fal.
The three mages continued to browse the weapons for about three minutes until the shopkeeper returned.
When Xerxes saw the sword he carried, his heart skipped a beat.
Chapter 3: Weapons (1)
Chapter 3: Weapons (1)
Someone who knew little of swords might not think this one was very impressive. No jewels encrusted on the hilt. No gold filigree. No special etchings on the de.
But Xerxes could tell just by looking at it that the craftsmanship was superb. For one thing, it was made of steel, and Mannemid didnt produce steel.
The des nine ands, one and a alf fingers in length, the old man said. Grip, two ands and one finger. Feel for yourself how eavy it is. He offered it to Xerxes with two hands.
Xerxes took it and felt it for weight, then gripped it with one hand to test for bnce. Very nice, he said.
Indeed. ording to the story I was told, this de once belonged to a famous swordsman from Sin-Amuhhu, who used it to y no less than fifteen bandits on the road from.
Xerxes tuned out the story and focused instead on the de. The term Sighted wasnt figurative. Those within whom magic had awakened could see everything rted to mm energy, including both spells and spell formations, thetter being essentially permanently cast spells. They could also see things that were normally hidden to the naked eye, whether poison in food or doorways cleverly disguised as bookcases.
Xerxes sent his sight into the weapon, examining every aspect of it. Spell formations were exceedingly rare, so he didnt expect to find one in the sword. But if there was one.
After a moment, he exhaled softly in disappointment. There was no spell formation, which meant the sword wasnt magical.
Even still, it was the work of a master craftsman. That much he could tell just from the quality of the steel. All in all, it made his current weapon seem. ordinary.
... and e eld the gate for twelve hours, the old man was saying, until the carcasses of the enemy piled like mountains on either side of im
The shop was too cramped, and the sword toorge, to swing it around. But Xerxes was able to heft it. The more he held the thing, the more he could envision himself wielding it in a duel or on the battlefield. It was almost like it was made for him.
I get the picture, he said, interrupting the old mans story and handing the sword back to him. In all likelihood, the tale the old man had been spinning was a fabrication. If not in whole, definitely in part. But that didnt change the fact that the workmanship was superb. Its an incredible de. How much are you asking for it?
Twenty shekels, the man answered. A steal, if you ask me, but I do need to get rid of it eventually.
Xerxess lips tightened into a grimace. His own father currently earned thirty-six shekels per month, and that was high for someone of his position. After all, he worked directly under Gandashs father in the political machine of the capital city, and Gandashs father had pulled plenty of strings to get him a higher-than-average sry. Xerxes knew that, years ago, before he had been born, his father and mother had survived on less than fifteen shekels per month.
Thats outrageous! Gandash said. Twenty shekels? That sword isnt worth eight shekels, let alone twenty.
The old man reacted with a pained expression. Wrong, young man. If I sell it for twenty, Ill hardly break even! Let me tell you about how I got it. Its quite a tale.
Xerxes and Bel looked on in amusement as Gandash proceeded into a heated negotiation. However, even after thirty minutes of haggling, the lowest price he could get was fifteen.
It was still far more than Xerxes could afford. Its a great sword, he said, but Ill have to pass.
Your loss, the old man said.
Excuse us a moment, Gandash said, then grabbed Xerxes by the arm and pulled him away from the counter. Lowering his voice, he said, Xerk, it really is an amazing sword. You might not find anything like it without going to a higher starisle.
I agree, Xerxes said. But I cant afford it. Simple as that.
Gandash shed a slightly irritated look. Just pay what you can, and Ill spot you the difference.
Xerxes looked over to see Bel and the old man staring at him, and he felt a tiny spark of anger in his chest. He only had one shekel and a handful of minas, which was slightly more than he had paid for his current weapon. Even if he spent all of his pocket money right here and now, Gandash would have to chip in nearly fourteen shekels. Given that mage studies made it impossible to do steady work on the side, it meant Xerxes had to survive on whatever his father could send. In other words, paying back a loan of fourteen shekels could take years.
Trying to ignore the mounting embarrassment at being stared at by Bel and the shop owner, he shook his head. No. Look, Gandash, its not a big deal. Its just a sword. The one I have is fine enough.
Gandash sagged dramatically. Are you kidding me? Its made from high quality steel! Even if it wasnt forged on Sin-Amuhhu like the old man ims, it definitelyes from a higher starisle. Honestly, fifteen is a really good deal for something like that.
Xerxes jaw tightened and he pulled his arm out of Gandashs grasp. I said no, alright? Im not buying it!
What if I get it for you as an early birthday
NO! Xerxes yelled, then turned on his heel and walked out of the shop, mming the door behind him.
Asshole, he muttered as he threw his hood over his head and stalked down the street, away from the town square. Along the way, he noticed a woodsman leaning against the side of an alley across the street, looking at him.
Got a problem? he growled, casting a re at the man as he walked past. The man didnt respond.
The rain had lessened, but the streets were no less dry, and the way he stamped through them caused flecks of mud to stter his boots and the bottom of his cloak. Turning into an alley, he threaded his way through some smallernes before reaching a point where a rocky hill marked the northern edge of the town proper. He climbed the hill, stopping at the crest to look at the view beyond.
For about half a league, there was mostly opennd peppered with asional trees and boulders. Beyond that, the Yellow Forest took over.
Realizing the rain had stopped, Xerxes pulled his hood back and stared at the forest. Hed never traveled this far north in his life, so this was his first time seeing trees this tall and dense. ording to what hed been told, they got even bigger and taller the further you went into the depths of the forest. Despite its name, the ce wasnt yellow. Supposedly, it was called that because of tiny yellow flowers that bloomed in springtime on the vines that choked the lower levels. Right now, it was mid-autumn, and any such blooms were long gone.
Only a minute or two after arriving at the hilltop, he heard a noise and nced back to see Bel climbing up toward him. He noticed her holding a bundle in both hands, and for a brief moment his temper red as he thought it was the longsword. As she neared, he realized it wasnt. The bundle was too short and thick.
Stupid, he thought. This mission traveling to the outskirts of the kingdom had been one of the most amazing things hed done in his life so far. Why let things turn sour now?
Bel stopped next to him and took a deep breath. Smells differentpared to where I grew up, thats for sure.
I imagine so, he said. A moment passed. Sorry for losing my temper.
No skin off my back. I think you caught Gandash by surprise though. He seemed well anyway. You okay?
Yeah. Heced his fingers together behind his neck and sighed. It was dumb of me. But it just pisses me off sometimes.
What does?
Gandash throwing money around all the time. Its like he has no idea that not everybody in the world is rich.
Hes rich? Bel asked curiously. I honestly didnt know.
Xerxes shrugged. Maybe not rich. But not poor, I can tell you that.
She grunted in response.
They stood there for a few more minutes, looking at the clouds rolling over the forest. Finally, Bel said, I have an idea.
Chapter 3: Weapons (2)
Chapter 3: Weapons (2)
Oh yeah? Xerxes said. "Well, I love ideas."
Look down there. Bel pointed. Its a nice little clearing. No rocks or other junk. How about we do some sparring?
He looked at the clearing, then back at her. Its too wet for wrestling, he said. And I didnt bring any training weapons.
I did, she said, holding up the bundle. I dropped a few minas on some cheap stuff at the shop. Might as well try them out, dont you think?
He smiled. Sure.
They climbed down the hill, crossed some of the rough terrain, then ended up in the clearing Bel had pointed out earlier. She unwrapped the bundle to reveal four small wooden fighting axes and two wooden staves.
Axes first? she said.
Sure. I havent done much training with axes before.
Me either. But back in Od, we have a thing called ax dancing, and my uncle taught me a thing or two about it.
Xerxes folded his cloak, put his hat on top, and put it in a dry spot. Bel did the same, wrapping her cloak around her pack. Then Bel tossed two of the axes to Xerxes.
Okay, she said. In actualbat, youll probably never fight with an ax in each hand. Ax dancing is more for performance purposes than anything else. But my uncle said that a lot of the basic moves havebat applications. Lets start with some of the basic stances.
After a few minutes, they started testing some moves out on each other.
Xerxes mood improved rapidly as his blood started pumping. The weather remained blustery but clear, without so much as a sprinkle of rain.
As had urred numerous times during the journey north, Xerxes almost couldnt believe all of this was real. He, who had been born and raised in the slums of the capital city, having never traveled farther than a few leagues from its walls, was now just outside of the Yellow Forest in the far north, sparring with a barbarian girl from Od. It wasnt a surprise that he, Gandash, and Bel, all of them having recently be Seers, would be assigned to a simple mission like this, officially led by an experienced officer like Captain Ishki. But it didnt make it any less exciting.
Two hourster, they took a break.
Should have brought some water, Xerxes said.
Bel unfolded her cloak and pulled out her pack, within which was a hand-sized canteen. She popped the cork, took a drink, then said, Here, and handed it to him.
He drank. Thanks.
A sh of motion caught his attention from the top of the hill. Xerxes turned, hoping it would be Gandash. Having calmed down after the workout, he was ready to apologize for his previous outburst.
Instead, the person atop the hill was Gem. Xerxes waved, as did Bel.
Gem returned the wave, then trotted down the hill and toward them.
Thought you two might be doing something else out ere, he said, grinning.
Shut the hell up, Gem, Xerxes said. Bel is Gandashs girl, he wanted to add, but that would have been inappropriate.
Bel didnt say anything, but Xerxes was fairly certain he saw a flush creeping up her neck. Xerxes liked Bel a lot, but didnt think of her as anything but a friend. And he still held the remote hope that, one day, Gandash would work up the gumption to tell her that he liked her. Xerxes got the feeling Bel knew, and was waiting for his buddy to make the first move. But who knew for sure? Girls were impossible to read most of the time.
Gem looked at the wooden weapons theyd been practicing with. Axes, eh? Nice.
Xerxes took another sip of water and then handed the canteen back to Bel. I take it you didnt tromp all the way out here to say hi and crack some bad jokes.
Smart fellow. Captain Ishki wants everyone back for lunch. ns to go over some of the details of whats toe in the next few days.
Bel wrapped up her weapons, and she and Xerxes put their cloaks back on.
Did you see Gandash? Xerxes asked as we started climbing up the hill.
Yeah, he came back about an hour ago, Gem answered.
Oh.
Cresting the hill, they started down the other side into the town, but before they reached the first of the buildings, someone stepped out of the very same alley Xerxes hade through earlier.
He was a skinny fellow wearing abination of leather and sturdy fabric that marked him as a woodsman. And he was carrying a short spear.
Even as he stepped into the open, a second man in simr clothing joined him, a knife in his hand.
Gem stopped walking, and Bel and Xerxes followed suit.
Can I help you? Gem asked, taking a step forward so that he formed the point of a loose triangle formation with Bel and Xerxes.
The first man to have stepped out spat on the ground.
Another man stepped out of another alley, several paces to the left. And a fourth man appeared to the right. Both had hunting knives in their hands.
Xerxes was suddenly regretting the fact that hed left his sword back at the tavern. Of course, he had hisponent pouch, which contained four handfuls of crabnickel powder. As an Asgagu Seer, he could use that powder to cast one spell, Singr Lethality, which would turn his hand into a deadly weapon. But spellcasting wasnt something a mage did casually. Every spell depleted a mages supply of mm by a specific amount. And stockpiling mm was the key to growing as a mage. At lower levels, such as that of Seer, recovering mm after spellcasting wasnt particrly time-consuming. But the stronger a mage got, the more precious they treated mm, and that carried over into the education given to young mages. Because of that, generally speaking, mages didnt cast spells except when absolutely necessary.
In any case, a spell wasnt an option except as ast resort, and Xerxes had no weapon. Given that he had just been training with Bel for a few hours, he knew that she didnt have a weapon either, other than the wooden ones.
As for Gem, he had a dagger at his belt.
Normally speaking, ordinary people didnt need to wear weapons on the street in the Kingdom of Isin. What was more, the convoy had been dispatched with the authority of the Mage Parliament. It seemed ludicrous that anyone would try to cause problems for them.
Then again, they were on the fringes of the kingdom, and been sent here to investigate allegations of activities that were ouwed by the Pontifarch. Could it be possible that these people were working for the man theyd been sent to investigate, Master Ligish of Ligish Castle?
Whats this about? Gem said, putting his hand on the hilt of his dagger.
A fifth man stepped out, and in that moment, Xerxes realized what was happening.
It was Biru, the burly man from the tavern the night before. His face was swollen, and bruising had set in. But that only seemed to make him more intimidating.
He had his long knife sheathed at his belt again, but in his hands he held a weapon much more formidable than a knife. A bronze sword.
Chapter 4: Mud and Blood (1)
Chapter 4: Mud and Blood (1)
Grinning, Biru pointed his sword at Xerxes. Ope youre ready to apologize, boy.
Xerxes lip curled slightly. For kicking your ass? Why would I do that?
Biru bared his teeth and was about to talk, but Gem beat him to it.
Calm down, everybody, he said.
However, even as the words left his mouth, two more figures stepped out from alleyways and leaned up against the sides of the buildings. Between these two, one had a hatchet simr to the axes he and Bel had been training with earlier. The other had a short spear.
Men like this didnt bring weapons and gang up on a small group simply to talk.
Biru twirled the bronze sword and took half a step forward. Well calm down if two things appen. First, chickenshit mageboy ere will get onto his ands and knees and beg me to forgive im. Second his eyes darted to Bel, and his lips twistedsciviously thedy soldieres ome with me for the afternoon.
The secondment caused Xerxes jaws to tighten, and he was preparing some scorching profanity to hurl at Biru, but was beat to the punch by Bel herself. She was normally quiet and soft spoken, but not now. Looking the big man in the eye, she said, Fuck you, piss-for-brains.
Her words provoked a few chuckles from the other men. Biru red at one of them and spat, Shut the ell up. Then he looked at Gem. I told you my terms. Yes or no?
Gems hand was still on his dagger. You do know who we are, right?
I dont care if youre soldiers from the capital. We seven call the Yellow Forest our ome. We aint Isinians. Understand what that means?
Xerxes understood perfectly well. These men knew that if they caused trouble, even trouble as bad as murder, they could mysteriously disappear into the woods and never be found.
Youre a real idiot, he said. Two mages and one soldier versus seven woodchoppers like you? We could kill you all without so much as getting a bump on the head.
His words caused a bit of a stir among the six other men. Their hands tightened on their weapons, and to a man, they stood up a bit straighter.
You didnt say she was a mage too, Biru, one of them said.
Ees lying, Biru said. The Mage Council sent two mages out ere, and the other ones a boy like this one. They were both in the tavernst night. Besides, if the foreign girl were a mage, shed have one of those magic purses.
Xerxesughed. My friend here is a mage, dipshit. By the way, its called the Mage Parliament, not the Mage Council.
Birus fellows seemed to grow even more hesitant. Seeing that, the man took a step toward Xerxes. Even if your girlfriend is a mage, who cares? You only got the upper and on mest night with a sucker punch. If youre so confident, why not face me in a fair fight?
Fine, Xerxes said, throwing his hood back and rolling up his sleeves.
Allow me to cut in again, Gem said, raising his voice a bit. Biru, my friend, the truth is that these two young mages are worth three of you in a fight. And thats without casting spells. As for me, Im a veteran of two wars, and Ive killed more people than Id care to confess to. So why dont we just
Shut it, old man! Biru said, and he started walking directly toward Xerxes.
Xerxes grinned and settled into a fighting stance. Great. Lets do this!
Xerxes, Bel said. This
We dont Gem began, but then the rest of the woodsmen started taking steps forward. Gem drew his dagger. Now listen.
Xerxes attention was focused solely on Biru, who was now only two paces away. The woodsman was bigger than him, and had a weapon. It wasnt an ideal situation. But as a Seer, Xerxes had the advantage in terms of strength and speed. And he had training on his side. In fact, he had trained on numerous asions for this exact scenario; dealing with a sword-wielding opponent while being unarmed.
He wasnt even thinking about theponent pouch at his belt. There was no way he would resort to a spell in this situation.
As Biru neared, he gripped the bronze sword in both hands and threw it up like it was an ax to split wood. Xerxes kept his focus razor sharp, gauging the distances involved, and preparing to lunge forward at just the right moment.
Off to the side, his ears registered a shout as Gem shed with two of the other men. At the same time, Bel had thrown open her bundle and had a stave in each hand. Xerxes tried to ignore them and remain focused on his own situation.
Birus sword descended, and Xerxes lunged forward and grabbed both of the mans wrists. At the same time, he threw his ankle behind Birus calf. Twisting and pulling, he tried to throw Biru to the ground. Unexpectedly, Biru didnt fall. Instead, he stumbled to the side. Worse, he managed to keep his grip on the sword.
Dammit, Xerxes thought. That wasnt how the move had worked in training. And now he was locked in close quarters with an opponent who still controlled a razor-sharp weapon.
Xerxes had his hands sped around Birus wrists, which, given his superior strength, gave him a measure of control over the direction of the de. But as Biru caught his bnce, he pulled hard, trying to free his hands. Xerxes was tugged off his feet, and then Biru kicked him. His hat flew off to the side.
Xerxes grunted in pain as the mans boot heel connected with his inner thigh. Biru jerked again, and one of Xerxes hands slippedpletely off of Birus wrist. He maintained his grip with the other hand, but it was now holding Birus forearm.
This is going from bad to worse, he thought. And it was no training exercise. A stray stab or sh from that weapon could cause major damage.
Xerxes heard cries from off to the side, and out of the corner of his eye saw shes of motion as Bel and Gem fought the other woodsmen.
Biru kicked Xerxes again as the struggle between the two became more chaotic. Xerxes tried to knock him down, but failed. Biru kneed him in the side.
They struggled back and forth. Suddenly, Xerxes found himself on his back in the mud, not sure how he got there. By now, Xerxes confidence had evaporated, and he knew he was fighting for his life.
Biru tried to hack him with the sword, forcing Xerxes to roll to the side in the mud. He kicked out again and caught Biru in the knee. Therger man squawked as he dropped into a kneeling position, but simultaneously shed out with the sword.
Xerxes barely avoided it. Maybe casting a spell wouldnt be a bad idea. But did he have the time? He would have to untie hisponent pouch, draw out the crabnickel powder, trace the Asgagu Isten rune, then channel the mm energy in the proper fashion. Only then would the spell be cast, causing his right hand to transform into a destructive, burning expression of power.
Unfortunately, that entire process would take at least three or four seconds. And that wasnt to mention that he could fail in tracing the rune, or in directing the mm. After all, hed never cast a spell in an actualbat situation before.
Xerxes jerked his head back, barely avoiding the bronze de as Biru waved it toward him. Then he managed to scramble to his feet. Very vaguely out of the corner of his eye, he saw that one of the woodsmen had been knocked onto the ground and was either unconscious or dead. Gem and Bel were on their feet, but were surrounded.
This isnt working, he thought. Got to end this. Fast.
Chapter 4: Mud and Blood (2)
Chapter 4: Mud and Blood (2)
Biru shed the sword wildly, Xerxes dodged, and then jumped forward and mmed his shoulder into Birus sr plexus.
Biru copsed, and Xerxes fell on top of him. Even before they hit the ground, Xerxes hands were on Birus, trying to wrench his fingers off the hilt of the weapon. One finger came back. Then another. Taking advantage of the angle, Xerxes smashed his elbow into Birus jaw. The big man yelped, and released a hand to try to protect his face. That was just what Xerxes needed. His fingers slipped around part of the bronze swords hilt, and he pulled away hard.
The sword jerked out of Birus hand. Xerxes rolled to the side, jumped to his feet, and held the sword out in front of him.
Fucker! Biru spat, then pulled his long knife out of its sheath as he got to his feet. Wiping blood off his mouth, he tried to stab Xerxes.
Wrong, Xerxes thought. Acting almost purely on instinct, he sidestepped, then shed the short sword toward Birus head. To Xerxes surprise, the sword bit into the mans neck just above his cor bone. Blood started pouring out. More blood than Xerxes had ever seen in one ce. Gripping the sword in two hands, he prepared for Biru to lunge toward him again. But the man didnt.
Instead, he mped his hand onto his neck and staggered to the side.
You he said, then slipped in the mud and fell. Blood kept pouring through his fingers. You.
He tried to get up, but failed, and fell onto his back. He groaned, and then his hand fell away. He spasmed visibly, and Xerxes looked away from the red waterfall.The man was dead. He dropped the bronze sword as a wave of numbness seeped through him. He exhaled shakily.
In his peripheral vision, he saw the other woodsmen stumbling away into the nearby alleys.
Birus got imself killed! one of them said, his voice trembling.
Fuck him, another said. We gotta get out of ere!
He tried to take another deep breath.
Someone was yelling. Screaming. It was Bel.
Gem! she shrieked. Gem, are you alright?
Xerxes turned and saw the portly soldier lying on his side, with Bel next to him on her knees, leaning over him.
Xerxes walked toward them, shaking his head to try to gain rity. Whats wrong? he said.
Bel looked over her shoulder, and he saw blood smeared on her face.
Hes hurt. Cut in the neck.
As Xerxes rushed over, he saw that Gem was bleeding from a neck wound. It was in a different ce than the blow which had killed Biru, but it was a neck wound nheless. Bel was pushing her hand onto it, but blood oozed out nonstop.
Fuck me, Gem said, his voice raspy and quiet. Cant believe this is appening.
Cant you heal him, Bel? Xerxes said.
Bel shook her head. I left myponent pouch in my room, remember?
Fuck. Xerxes dropped to his knees on Gems other side.
Xerk, Bel said, you keep the pressure on his neck, Ill run back. Itll only take a minute.
Right.
You take over in three, two, one, now!
When Bel took her hand away, an enormous wave of blood surged out of Gem. Xerxes quickly put his hand on the mans neck and pushed down. Nausea wed at his stomach, and he felt like throwing up, but suppressed the urge.
Bel sprinted off. As a Seer just like Xerxes, she could run ten times faster than an average human. But would that be fast enough?
Just hang in there, Gem, Xerxes said. Shell be back quick. Itll take a matter of seconds to patch your neck up.
Not sure about that, kid, Gem said, his voice trembling, and already quieter than before. This is bad.
Youll be fine. Xerxes pushed down harder on the wound, but the blood oozed out nheless.
I have some sh-shekels in a wood box in my stuff. Can you g-get it to my wife and kids?
You can give it to them, Gem.
Tell them tell them I love t-tell.
Gem closed his eyes.
No, Xerxes murmured. Looking down he saw that Gem was still breathing. Dont die, Gem. Just a matter of seconds, really. Belll be right back.
He watched Gem breathing, and felt the blood flowing through his fingers. How had this happened? Why had it happened?
He looked briefly over at Biru, whoy there just as before in a pool of bloody mud. He looked back at Gem.
Bel! he shouted. Bel, hurry up!
Gem went still. No breathing.
Fuck. COME ON, GEM!
Xerxes let loose a hoarse shout of rage and frustration. It did nothing.
The blood had stopped flowing. It still seeped out a bit, but Xerxes could tell it wasnt being pushed out with force. Gems heart had stopped beating. He took his hand away, grabbed the mans shirt, and shook him. Start breathing again!
He heard the p of footsteps, and then Bel slid to a stop in the mud next to him.
I got it! she said. He saw her shove her hand into herponent pouch and pull out a handful of green sand.
Its toote, Xerxes said hollowly.
She looked down, and a stricken expression took over her face. She stood there frozen for a moment. Then her expression hardened. Might still be a chance.
Cupping her hand in front of her, she began to draw the Btu Isten rune into the sand to cast Minor Restoration. A momentter, Xerxes saw mm flowing out from Bels hand. Delicate spirals epassed her forearm as she dropped down to both knees and then touched Gems chest.
The mm disappeared into him, and Xerxes heart leapt briefly as he saw some of the flesh around the wound twitching. But that was it.
Nothing else happened. Healing spells only worked on the living.
She exhaled sharply. I can try again. Maybe my rune was off.
It wasnt, Bel, Xerxes said, and suddenly he realized tears were streaming down his cheeks. Nheless, he reached out and took Bels hand. He squeezed it. Hes gone.
She squeezed his hand back.
Chapter 5: Aftermath (1)
Chapter 5: Aftermath (1)
Other soldiers showed up shortly after that, having been alerted when Bel burst into the tavern to get herponent pouch. Xerxes felt a sting of humiliation that they were seeing him like this, but there wasnt anything he could do. He kept his head hunched down and forced himself to stop crying.
Captain Ishki arrived eventually, then the town constables and even the mayor. There were interviews and paperwork. After all, multiple individuals had been killed, and the matter needed to be investigated. Operating on the authority of the Mage Parliament, there was virtually no chance that the local constables would defy Captain Ishkis decisions, unless they were grantly uwful. The captain was the type who did everything by the book anyway. She was beyond furious that one of her soldiers had been killed. The mayor and the constables reacted like chastened schoolchildren as she unleashed her rage on them, berating them for allowing suchwlessness in their streets, and demanding full cooperation in bringing the surviving aplices to justice.
Xerxes heard Bels ount when she reported to the captain. As it turned out, she was the one who killed the other fallen woodsman. A blow to the temple from a Seer could do that.
Gem got blindsided. It was as simple as that. He was a soldier away from the battlefield, with no armor and no shield. A sharp de would bite as easily through his skin as it would through any other persons. Perhaps if he had been one of the legendary martial adepts, who spent lifetimes turning their bodies into weapons, he might have performed some superhuman feat and single-handedly taken down multiple attackers in a matter of moments. But he wasnt a martial adept.
When Bel finished her story, Captain Ishki nodded and sighed. A quiet moment passed that seemed tost forever. Then she spoke, her voice soft but firm. Seer Bel why didnt you have your spellponent pouch with you?
Tears welled up in Bels eyes as she took a shuddering breath. I I.
It was my fault, Xerxes jumped in. She was going to go back and get it when we left, but I dragged her out of the tavern.
I see, Captain Ishki said, the muscles in her jaw tightening for a moment before they loosened. I see.
Xerxes told his side of the story, leaving out nothing. He exined about what happened at the weapon shop, and how he and Bel had gone out of the town limits to do some training.
In the end, Captain Ishki seemed angry, but at the same time, understanding.
During the initial flurry of activity, Xerxes didnt see Gandash. But he caught sight of him sometimeter, after the crowds built. There was no chance to talk with him, though they shared a nod from a distance.
As might have been expected, word traveled quickly through the town, and by mid-afternoon, any soldier who took to the streets was the subject of odd looks by the townsfolk. In many cases, people crossed the street to avoid them.
On the one hand, Biru and his fellows were woodsmen who didnt call the town home. In fact, they didnt even identify as Isinians. They were essentially foreigners. What was more, they had a reputation for causing trouble. That said, they were familiar faces to many people, and they had connections to numerous businesses and individuals.
At best, the towns reaction was mixed.
A few hourster, after things calmed down a bit, everyone returned to the tavern with Captain Ishki.
Im going up to change, Bel said.
Me too, Xerxes said.
As Captain Ishki and the other soldiers took seats, Xerxes and Bel headed up the stairs. At the top, Xerxes was about to turn right and head to his room when he sensed hesitation on Bels part.
He looked back to see her standing there with a nk look on her face.
You okay? he asked.
She turned, and though her eyes were nk, they came into focus when she realized he was standing in front of her. She stepped forward, threw her arms around him, and buried her face against his neck.
Surprised, he took a moment before putting his arms around her.
Seconds turned into about a minute, then she released him and stepped away. Sorry. Its just.
I get it, he said. Same here.
She nodded and looked toward her feet.
Were gonna be fine, he continued. I think.
She nodded again, then turned and walked away.
He watched her go, then went in the opposite direction.
About twenty minutester, he came back down to themon room, free of mud, and wearing his only other set of clean traveling clothes. Captain Ishki was nowhere to be seen, but other soldiers were present, in two groups, one in a booth, the others at a table. Gandash was there, and he looked up as soon as Xerxes appeared.
Their eyes met, and Gandash quickly got up and hurried over. They stood in front of each other at the bottom of the stairs for a moment.
Sorry for being an asshole, Xerxes said.
Dont say that, Gandash replied. I wasnt thinking. I just got excited and I dont know what
You didnt do anything wrong.
So were all good?
Yeah.
Gandash chewed at the inside of his cheek for a moment before continuing, Are you okay, Xerk?
I will be.
And what about Bel?
I dont know. But I think she needs someone to talk to, Gandy. Or maybe someone to just be there with her. Hold her hand maybe.
An awkward, stricken expression overtook Gandahs face. Uh you mean?
Ya dummy, Xerxes thought. I mean you should go up, knock on her door, and ask if shes okay.
Me? B-but
Xerxes threw an arm around his friends neck, leaned closer, and lowered his voice. Brother, she just went through a big ordeal and needs somefort. Got it? Go talk to her. Or just let her talk, and you listen.
Gandashs mouth opened, then closed. Then it opened again as he said, What am I supposed to say to her, though? I mean.
I already told you. Go up, knock on the door. Say, Are you okay? Simple.
Are you okay? His brow furrowed in thought.
Xerxes removed his arm and pushed his friend toward the stairs. Go.
Gandash started up hesitantly, but his stride quickly became more confident as he got closer to the second floor.
Maybe this will finally be the tipping point between the two of them, Xerxes thought.
He joined the soldiers at the table, and they immediately drew him into conversation. Rihan was there, and Goran too. Even Sergeant Aniskipel. Not every soldier present was a grizzled veteran like Gem had been. But they were soldiers nheless, and they knew what it was like to live through a deadlybat situation for the first time. For weeks now, Xerxes had been doing everything to impress the soldiers and get them to like him. Now, he felt like a fool in their presence. And he was also worried they would me him for Gems loss.
At first, he tried to put on a boisterous front. But almost as soon he started telling the story to them, he found himself swept up in emotion. At one point, tears leaked out of his eyes. They didnt me him. Instead, they treated him like an equal. They nodded gravely, joked, pped him on the back, and offered sage bits of advice.
Before long, Xerxes was stable again, his emotions in control. He still felt a heavy weight on his shoulders, but was confident that he would be able to move on from the ordeal without turning into a basketcase.
Chapter 5: Aftermath (2)
Chapter 5: Aftermath (2)
Later in the evening, as dinnertime neared, Captain Ishki called everyone together into the tavernsmon room. Slowly but surely, the soldiers gathered, pushing tables and benches together in the middle of the room to sit together. It was obvious the ce wasnt going to be bustling like the night before. Only two or three woodsmen had showed up, and they were huddling quietly in the farthest booth they could find from the soldiers. A handful of locals were present as well, most likely regrs who would show up regardless of the current climate in town.
Gandash and Bel came down together. It wasnt as though they were holding hands or physically closer in any way, but to Xerxes eyes, something about them had changed. They were looking at each other differently than before.
I knew it, Xerxes thought. He resolved to ask Gandash about the detailster.
The bard returned to the stage, but being able to read the crowd, he didnt try out any foot-tapping tunes, and instead stuck with calmer melodies.
As it turned out, Captain Ishki had arranged for a special dinner. Ourst civilized meal before heading out into the wilds, she said. It consisted of roasted beef, a fish stew, sweet dishes with dates and honey, pastries, and an ale that vastly surpassed the ordinary stuff theyd consumed the previous night.
After the food came out and everyone had a chance to dig in, Captain Ishki stood and called for a toast.
Being from Od, the captain resembled Bel in the lightness of her skin and hair, as well as her general facial structure. However, she was shorter and stockier. What was more, the scars visible on her face and neck made it obvious that she had seen more than her fair share ofbat on the battlefield. In Isin and Fal, it was rare for womenfolk to serve in the army, and to fight in battle. But not in Od. Captain Ishki had a reputation for being tough but smart. And unlike many Isinian officers that Xerxes had encountered, although Ishkimanded respect, she didnt take herself too seriously. As a result, the soldiers generally admired her.
Lets drink to the uing mission, Captain Ishki said, holding up her tankard.
To the mission, said one of the light infantry named Tekinalp.
They drank together. Then the captain set her tankard down and put her fingertips on the table in front of her. Leaning forward, she said, The incident this morning was tragic, but things like that happen sometimes. We lost a dear friend, and I know were all shaken up about it. Lets have a moment of silence.
After the silence passed, the captain said, But theres a good side. I think were all proud that our Seers handled themselves so well. Am I right?
There was a bit of pping and cheering.
Lets drink to the mages! Goran said, lifting his tankard.
To the mages, the captain said, lifting her tankard again. Regarding the mornings incident, I believe Sergeant Tamharu has an update. Sergeant?
Tamharu, the leader of Squad One, was a burly, scarred man who, like Gem, had fought in many battles. He was tall, with a full beard and a fearless glint that never left his eye, even if he got drunk.
Standing, he said, Yes, Captain Ishki. I did some digging and got the names of the other woodsmen who were involved in the fight. Physical descriptions as well. They cleared out of town immediately. I Imagine theyre deep in the forest already.
When we get back to the capital well issue arrest warrants for them. Ill personally put a bounty on their heads and you know, maybe Ill request leave toe out here and track the bastards down myself. Well see to it that Gem gets full and justice.
Here here! a soldier said
Justice for Gem, added another.
All of a sudden, Xerxes felt the urge to raise his hand. Captain Ishki?
Yes, Seer Xerxes?
Gem mentioned a box with some money, and he asked me to get it to his family. If its alright with you, sir, I I feel like its my responsibility to handle that.
I know the box, Rihan said.
Get the box to Seer Xerxes, the captain said.
Yes sir.
Shifting her attention to anky soldier who everyone called Ap, she said, Private Apuulluunideeszu, did you make all the arrangements with the coroner?
Apuulluunideeszu held the second-longest name in the convoy and had been one of Gems close friends. Standing up, he saluted. Sir, yes sir! Arrangements have all been made, sir!
There were a few chuckles among the soldiers at Aps excessive formality.
Thank you, Private, the captain said. You can sit. Now, in a moment we can finish our meal and have a final evening of rest before we get on the road in the morning. Itll take two days to reach our destination, so well camp in the forest for at least one night.
I dont have any reason to suspect this will be anything but a routine inspection of this Master Ligish and his castle. ording to the report, a traveler ims to have seen evidence hes experimenting with advanced machinery. If you ask me, its probably a false report filed by a rival. But protocol requires us to make a formal investigation, and so, we will. That doesnt mean well bex, though. Everyone stay alert and ready for trouble at all times. Especially after what happened this morning. Understood?
The soldiers all voiced words of acknowledgment.
Good. In that case, enjoy this meal, and dont get too drunk! Ill lead morning prayer for all of us tomorrow, and I dont want to see anybody hungover!
No promises, captain! a soldier said, and everyoneughed, including the captain.
After that, the group dined and drank. At one point, Rihan brought down Gems box and handed it over to Xerxes in ceremonious fashion. Everyone had a story or two to tell about their lostrade. Gant tears were shed, but at the same time, jokes were made. As the hours wore on, spirits rose some, and many a toast was made in Gems name.
Eventually, people began to retire. Xerxes exhaustion was dulled by the alcohol, but he was beginning to feel the stiffness that came after a fight. When it became clear that Gandash and Bel werent nning to go upstairs anytime soon, he finally said, Alright, Im done. I need to close my eyes.
Sure, Xerk, Gandash said. You go ahead, Ill be up in a minute.
Being mages, the two young men had their own room, as opposed to the soldiers who slept in bunks in a shared room. Upstairs, Xerxes made his final preparations for sleep, theny down and closed his eyes.
Despite his feelings of fatigue, sleep eluded him. He kept thinking of blood, and the gurgling sounds made by dying throats. He remembered Gems smile andughter. And the box he needed to deliver to Gems family.
It was nearly two hourster when Gandash quietly opened the door and slipped inside.
Xerxes lifted his head. Finally, he said.
Oh, youre still awake? Gandash slipped out of his boots, sat on the opposite bed, and sighed.
Well? Xerxes asked.
Well what?
You and Bel? Whats going on?
Oh, that. Well we kissed.
Xerxes sat up in bed. What? Are you kidding me?
Gandash put his hands behind his head and leaned back against the wall. Nope. I almost cant believe it. He sighed again. It wasnt exactly how I imagined it happening. But it was good. Really good.
Xerxes halfughed. Gandy, I cant believe you kissed her. Thats not what I said to do!
I didnt n it. It just sort of happened.
She nearly got killed. And she killed a guy. Then you went and kissed her? That was either a genius move or really, really stupid.
Shut up, Xerk. It wasnt like I nned it. She was sad, so I put my arm around her. We started talking. Then all of a sudden, it happened.
Xerxesy his head back down on his pillow, d to have thoughts of Gem pushed out of his mind. My boy Gandash. Finally bing a man.
This time, Gandashughed. Its not like youre some sort of yboy!
Not yet, Gandy. Not yet. But one day.
They chatted some more, with the talk turning serious before reverting to humor. Then it became serious again for a time. Back and forth they conversed,te into the night.
Eventually, as silver pinpricks of moonlight found their way through the ts in the window shutters, they fell asleep.
Chapter 6: Into the Mountains (1)
Chapter 6: Into the Mountains (1)
They rose early. Captain Ishki led the morning prayer, beseeching the Pontifarch to watch over Gems soul on its journey through the cycle of reincarnation. Then they left Kisiga.
The mayor and head constable were there to see them off. They didnt seem sad to see the soldiers go, but it wasnt as if they were hurrying them away. Assuming things went as nned, the convoy would pass through town again on the way back to the capital, only a few days hence.
Although Xerxes kept thinking about how Gem should have been there with them, he was still excited to get into the Yellow Forest. This was the first time hed traveled any distance from the capital, and as such, it went without saying that it was his first time leaving the kingdom. He almost couldnt sit still in the saddle.
The Yellow Forest covered most of the northern part of the continent, and it was considered free territory. Neither Isin, Fal, nor Od held any official sway once you entered the ancient trees.
The mages were mounted, as were the officers, those being Captain Ishki and Sergeants Tamharu, Aniskipe, and Nozar. The rest of the soldiers were infantry, with Squads One and Three being heavy infantry, and Two being light infantry. Those soldiers were on foot, with the exception of Ap, who drove the cart theyd purchased in Kisiga.
Although Captain Ishki said it was unlikely Master Ligish was doing anything illegal, in the remote chance he was, they might need to arrest him and bring his illegal machinery back to the capital as evidence.
But illegal machinery was thest thing on Xerxes mind as they followed the muddy path out of the vige, across the bare hills, and into the Yellow Forest. The rain had passed, and clouds still choked the sky, but asional patches of blue shone through as well.
Both clouds and blue sky disappeared once they were in the forest itself. The trees were huge, with snaking roots, most of which were covered by nkets of vines. Presumably those were the ones that would turn yellow with flowers in spring.
This was an ancient expanse of trees that had remained mostly untouched by man for centuries upon centuries. In another, more ancient time, there had been a civilization which imed the northern territory. But that civilization fell, whether to war, famine, or disease, few people knew except for the most learned and schrly mages. The forest had long since reimed thends, with only scattered remnants of that ancient civilization remaining. One example was the Ligish Castle, which was said to have been thest bastion of the now-extinct northern kings.
The forest smelled different than anything Xerxes had encountered before. There was a mossiness in the air, as well as something vaguely spicy, presumably from whatever fragrant herbaceous nts grew in the shadows. And there were mushrooms also, which Xerxes assumed was the source of the earthy undertone to everything. Birds called here and there, and it was possible to hear the chitter of small animals, presumably arboreal rodents of some sort. Of course, there was the asional drip of water as the trees continued to shed their nkets of rainwater.
There was something calming about this forest that appealed to Xerxes. It seemed at harmony with itself, as if every element belonged. No wonder the woodsmen liked to live out here.
About an hour into the journey, some of the soldiers started singing Maribels Magic before veering off into other popr songs. But Xerxes was too caught up in the novelty of the forest to join in. In fact, all of the sights, smells, and sounds were so distracting that it took a few hours before he realized he had nopanion riding next to him. The officers rode together toward the front of the column, and Xerxes had to look over his shoulder to see Bel and Gandash behind him.
Youve got to be kidding me, he thought. Theyre already all cozy in public?
Looking back out into the depths of the forest, he chuckled softly to himself. He wasnt the type to get jealous. In fact, he was happy his friend had finally gotten over his years-long hesitancy and bared his heart to the girl he liked.
When is my soulmate going to show up, though? he wondered.
Hed long since learned that the soldiers didnt like it if he tried to talk to them while mounted. Nor did they appreciate it if he dismounted, led his horse by the reins, and tried to make conversation that way. So for the time being, he kept to himself.
As the day wore on, the forest got thicker and darker. Also colder.
Upon reaching a clearing that was obviously used as a resting spot for travelers, the convoy stopped for a midday meal of bread and cheese. Xerxes wasnt the only one who had noticed the sudden closeness between Bel and Gandash. The soldiers kept their jokes under control, though.
In the past, he might have sat down with Gem, Ap, and Rihan to eat, but not today. He stuck with Gandash and Bel instead. Bel seemed to be spending some extra time with her horse, which meant he had a moment along with Gandash.
Forgetting about your old friends now that youve got a girl, Gandy? Xerxes said, trying to keep a straight face.
Hey, its not like that, Gandash said.
I know, just messing with you, he replied, the corner of his mouth twitching.
Bel joined them a few minutester.
Sorry to steal your friend, Xerk, she said. We just had some things to talk about.
Xerxes put his palms out. Its fine. Back home at the Academy I cant get him to stop jabbering about mage history and spellcasting theory. Believe me, its nice to get a break.
Gandash shoved his shoulder yfully.
What do you think this Master Ligish is going to be like? Bel asked.
Xerxes washed down some bread with a mouthful of water. My bet is theres nothing to the allegations. Nobody on Mannemid has been arrested for illegal machinery in what centuries?
Decades, Gandash said. Seventy-two years to be exact.
Xerxes stared at him. How the hell do you remember that?
It was a test questionst semester. Dont you remember?
Uh.
I remember, Bel said. Hilum the Wise of some city in Fal.
Gandash nodded. Good memory. Yeah, this fellow Hilum built a whole gearwork factory right under the noses of the mages of Fal. It went on for ten years before word leaked. Got arrested by High Seers Ninsunu and Beat, although they were only Seers at the time. Anyway, Hilum the Wise got taken to a higher starisle, I guess to be imprisoned, but who knows, maybe they executed him.
Were just lucky the Nergal didnte, Bel said.
True.
Xerxes made a spitting sound. Theres always some idiot willing to break thew and think theyll get away with it.
True, Bel said. The Pontifarchs eyes are farseeing. Only fools and the mad defy his will.
Er, right, Gandash said.
Xerxes nearly choked on his bread as he tried not tough.
What? Bel asked, looking at him quizzically.
He gave her a look. Come on, Bel, you know. Ol Gandy and I arent exactly on board with all the mainstream beliefs.
Chapter 6: Into the Mountains (2)
Chapter 6: Into the Mountains (2)
Ohhh, right, she said. I forgot. Youre Monadites.
Out of the corner of his eye he saw Gandash looking extremely awkward, and suddenly, he remembered how embarrassed his friend was of the religion they had both been raised in. Gandashs mouth hung open like an idiot, having clearly been caught off guard by the turn of conversation.
Clearing his throat, Xerxes said, Members of the One Faith. We dont call ourselves Monadites.
Oh, sorry, Bel said.
Its fine. Anyway, you know the basics right?
Lowering her voice, she said, You dont believe in the Pontifarch, right? But who do you pray to in the morning? And howe the Nergal doesnte to punish you?
We pray to the Monad, Gandash said. Simple as that. And the fact that the Nergal doesnte to punish us shows that the One Faith is true. Think about, if the Benediction of
Xerxes held up his hand. Gandy. Lets not get into boring stuff.
Gandash gulped. Right.
You think girls want to hear you jabber about hokey religious stuff like the so-called Monad? Xerxes thought. He resolved to have some strong words with Gandashter about this subject.
Hoping to steer the conversation back into a more normal direction, he said, Bel, what do you think about this Ligish fellow? You really think he might be working on illegal technology?
Finishing herst piece of cheese, Bel said, Youre probably right that the usations are fake. But imagine if they turn out to be real! And were the mages who arrest him. Our names will go down in history for sure!
Thats true, Gandash said excitedly. Who knows, it could be our ticket out of this starisle.
Guys, Xerxes said, lowering his voice.
The two other young mages looked at him expectantly.
Is it bad that I hope this asshole really is a criminal?
Bel and Gandashughed.
Hey, Bel said, if it gets us into a college on Sin-Amuhhu or Ku-Aya, then Id be fine with it.
Hell, Gandash said, Id settle for a college on Ira or Humusi.
Bels fair hair danced as she nodded. True. Just about anywhere else in the starsea would be an upgrade from Mannemid.
About an hour after calling for the rest, Captain Ishki had them moving again. The forest canopy made it impossible to see the sun and gauge the exact time. After a full afternoon of travel, they reached another rest area, this onerger, and obviously designed for overnight camping. The trees had been cleared so thoroughly that they had a direct view of the sky overhead. As the soldiers set up tents and picketed the horses, it was just possible to see the final pinks and purples of the evening sunset.
By the time they finished with the evening meal, the stars were out. After cleaning up, the three young mages sat around a fire talking about their studies and their future. The discussion earlier in the day about colleges in other starisles had apparently stirred all of their imaginations. Gandash recounted stories of famous mages of the past, and wars fought on distant and exotics. They talked of remote corners of the starsea, such as the Far Regions and even the Nightmare Cove. Eventually they tilted their heads back to look at the vista of sparkling light overhead.
Can you believe each one of them is another starisle? Xerxes said.
Well, technically, they arent, Gandash said.
Huh?
Not every single one is a starisle. If you want to know the specifics, the ratio of
Not interested! Xerxes interrupted.
They allughed.
Look! Bel said, pointing at a streak of light overhead.
Shooting star? Gandash said.
Another streak appeared, this one seemingly much closer than the other. In fact, it was so close they could make out what appeared to be tendrils of fire surrounding the rock, and thick smoke left behind in its wake.
More than a shooting star, Xerxes said. A meteor.
Theyre the same thing, Gandash noted.
Technically, yeah. But the feeling of the two words is different.
The second one was close, Bel said. If we were out in the open, I bet we could track down where itnded.
Can you imagine what rare materials could be in rocks that fall from out there? Gandash said. Boggles the mind.
Well, my friends, Xerxes said, if this mission does turn into our ticket off, then maybe youll find out sooner rather thanter!
In the morning, Captain Ishki had everyone do morning prayer individually before getting on the move again. An hour into the trek, they passed two woodsmen who said they were on their way to Kisiga with furs to sell on theing market day. Other than that, they were alone. Shortly after that, they reached a wooden sign in the road. Carved into the nk were two lines of text, with arrows pointing in different directions.
The arrow pointing to the left was apanied by the text: This way to Ligish Castle. One league.
The arrow pointing up had text that read: Laughing Gorge, three leagues.
They headed left, and almost immediately, the path started to grow steeper. They were into mountain foothills now, though the surrounding foliage showed no sign of growing thinner or shorter. If anything, it grew thicker for a time.
Up they climbed, men and horses alikeboring at the steepness.
There were no forks in the road, so there was no question of which way to travel. Two hours after the lunch hour, they reached a bridge of ck wood that crossed a steep gorge, at the bottom of which was a small river.
On the other side, it was a short hike up a winding trail before they reached a ridge that overlooked a valley of sorts. Across from the ridge was the castle.
Xerxes, having grown up in the capital, was ustomed torge buildings, churches, temples, and the like. After all, the main keep that towered over the city center was massive to say the least. But this castle was unlike anything he had seen before.
For one thing, it rose up from the surrounding forest as if it had grown that way. It was imposing, and at the same time, ancient, its architectural style unlike the buildings usually seen in Isin. There were many pointed arches,plex stone facades, and narrow windows.
It made him think of stories hed been told growing up, about daring rescues carried out by brave mages, and dramatic sword battles of antiquity.
I bet Gem would have liked to see this, he thought. A pang of sadness rose in his heart at the thought of his old friend.
As the convoy made their way down onto the final stretch of road that led to the castle, and as they neared the immense structure, there was something about the ce that struck him as odd.
He couldnt quite put his finger on it at first. But as they got even closer, he realized what it was: the castle was rotting. ck algae crept up its sides, and some sections had crumbled into almostplete ruin.
The battlements on the east side must have been damaged in some ancient war, and had never been repaired. In some sections, the windows were intact, but in others, there were only gaping holes where ss had surely staved off wind and rain in the past.
There had once been a moat protecting the castle, but it was now nothing more than a bramble-filled ditch. And while the entrance to the castle had once sported a portcullis and a heavy door, nothing remained of them but crumbling wood piled haphazardly to the side.There were some signs of life and maintenance, for instance, the fact that the path was mostly clear of leaves. But whoever was trying to keep the castle up, it seemed that they were fighting a losing battle.
Captain Ishki had them stop just before a rickety bridge that was the final portion of the path leading inside.
Sergeant Tamharu? she said.
Yes, Captain, the sergeant replied. Sending his horse out in front of the line, he cupped his hand by his mouth and yelled, Delegates from the Mage Parliament, here to visit Master Ligish son of Ahazu, the Machinist of the North.
The response came rather quickly. A stooped old man appeared, d in livery that was halfway from being well worn to threadbare.
Ey, wee to Master Ligishs castle! Es expecting you!
Chapter 7: Castle Investigation (1)
Chapter 7: Castle Investigation (1)
When the old servant said his master was expecting the convoy, it didnt mean he was waiting with open arms to receive them. Instead, the servant led them through the gate into the courtyard then stopped and turned to face them.
Stablesre thataway, he said, pointing to a smaller side gate. Just go out, turn right, and follow the wall. nning to stay the ole night?
Sergeant Tamharu, having been given the order to take the lead, said, We dont wish to inconvenience Master Ligish, but if he has ces for us to bed down, it would certainly be appreciated. We can use the stables if necessary.
The old man grunted augh. The Masters poor but e aint that uncivilized. He turned and started trudging toward a doorway opposite the one wed entered. Well, follow me.
Dismount, Sergeant Tamharu called. Private Ap, leave the cart here. Then you, Private Miljan, and Private Danijel care for the horses. Everyone else, lets go. Mages up front with the captain and me.
The servant led them inside the castle and through a few corridors.
The interior wasnt as bad as Xerxes expected it to be. Apparently, only the extremities of the castle were suffering from rot, although it was still possible to catch whiffs of mold and mildew. The east side of the ce had guest rooms. Sergeant Tamharu split everyone up between them, with officers sharing one room, mages another, and the soldiers split up between the other rooms.
The old servant disappeared at some point.
Xerxes, Gandash and Bel surveyed their room, within which were four beds, some wardrobes, as well as other random furniture pieces such as tables, chairs, and the likes. There were tapestries on the walls, a few rugs, and somemps as well. The room was cozy without being cramped, even if it did smell quite dusty. Bel even sneezed.
Gandash lit themps as Bel and Xerxes distributed their traveling packs.
A few minutester, Commander Ishki stuck her head in the door. Mages, change out of your traveling attire and get into your uniforms. The real work starts soon.
Yes, sir, the three young mages responded. Mages werent soldiers, but they did have uniforms for formal asions.
Ladies first, Xerxes said, stepping to the door. Ill wait out here.
Right, Gandash said, face flushing a bit as he hurried to follow.
Outside in the corridor, Xerxes elbowed his friend and said, You should have stayed.
Shut up.
Ten minutester, the door cracked open and Bel stepped out.
She wore a robe of oveppingyers of magenta and blue cloth. The neckline was low, but not excessively so. A headdress of ovepping golden leaves covered her forehead, and both of her wrists were bound with bands of gold decorated with green and blue jewels. She had also applied blue eyeshadow and painted her mouth red. It looked more like Isinian garb than fashion from Od, but that was the trend among mages. After all, the Academy was located in Isin.
Wow, Gandash said, then snapped his mouth shut and tried not to look awkward.
You really clean up, Bel, Xerxes said. Even took time for makeup. In only ten minutes?
Your turn, she said.
Xerxes and Gandash hurriedly threw off their traveling clothes and changed into their mage attire.
Their ovepping robes were of green and orange, with ornamental girdles of gold and leather, plus white, cylindrical hats decorated with gold. The Mage Parliament allowed for some measure of individuality, and thus, Xerxes wore his hat tilted to the side, and also rolled up his sleeves jauntily. Meanwhile, Gandash added leather bracers to his outfit.
When they emerged, Captain Ishki was waiting for them along with the stooped servant and two soldiers. Apparently Sergeant Tamharu was to stay behind.
This way, the servant said, and he led them through more corridors until they reached the castles great room.
As soon as they entered, they saw Master Ligish seated at a wide table. He was middle-aged and wore the frilly clothing one would expect of an Isinian tradesman or merchant. His outfit wasnt particrly fashionable, and it hardly seemed to fit him, draping over his stooped frame in a way that made it hard to tell if he was fat or skinny.
Standing, Master Ligish smiled and said, Wee, Captain Ishki andpany! I hope I didnt rush you!
Of course not, Master Ligish, the captain said, brushing past the servant. The mages and soldiers followed her as she approached the table.
There was something about Ligishs ent that stuck out to Xerxes, though he couldnt ce exactly what it was. The man didnt speak like someone from Fal. And based on his dark hair and eyes, he couldnt be from Od. But at the same time, he didnt seem Isinian. Of course, even within the borders of Isin, there were different ents and ng words. And that wasnt to mention there were other corners of Manneid that werent controlled by any of the three kingdoms, and had traditions and cultures that went back generations. In any case, the mans speech patterns didnt seem to fit anything that Xerxes was familiar with.
I put out a bit of a spread, Master Ligish said, gesturing at the table. Nothing quite as extravagant as the Mage Parliament is capable of. I hope you dont mind. Please, sit wherever youd like.
Captain Ishki took the seat of honor, and everyone else sat ording to seniority, with Bel taking the next seat in line, Gandash second, and Xerxes third. The soldiers sat at the end of the table.
Spread out before them was enough food to feed fifteen people, as well as ale and wine. All of it was decidedly in and simple.
I dont expect you to trust me, Master Ligish continued. Please have your mages check for poison and the like.
Seer Bel? said Captain Ligish. Can you do the formalities?
Bel tapped into her mage sight and looked over the food. Its all clean, she said a momentter.
Master Ligish smiled. Please, eat first. Then well discuss the matter at hand.
Xerxes poured himself water and took somemb, t bread, and diced vegetables. Of course, he surreptitiously checked everything with his own sight first. It wasnt that he didnt trust Bel. Rather, their training called for them to exercise such caution at all times when on missions.
At first, everyone focused on eating. Then Master Ligish and Captain Ishki engaged in some small talk, discussing current events in the kingdom and Mannemid in general, and the weather.
Did you notice the meteor showerst night? Master Ligish asked.
We did, Captain Ishki answered. Unusual for this time of year.
Indeed.
A few minutester, the captain apparently had enough of the chitchat.
Ill forgo bringing out the official paperwork, she said. As you know why were here.
Master Ligish nodded. I do. I assure you, these charges arepletely ridiculous. I suspect they were concocted by Master Korash of Castle Korash. Hes been trying for years to undermine me.
Regardless, formalities must beplied with. Well need to do a full inspection of your work facilities, and the castle in general.
I would expect nothing less. When would you like to begin?
Now, if possible.
A look of surprise appeared on Master Ligishs face. That soon? Id hoped to throw a banquet of some sort for your men.
Captain Ishki gave him a tight smile. Im sure youd prefer us out of your hair as soon as possible.
In that case I suppose we might as well start now.
Chapter 7: Castle Investigation (2)
Chapter 7: Castle Investigation (2)
And thus the inspection began. From the great hall, Master Ligish took them to a nearby drawing room, then more guest quarters, a side dining room, a few empty rooms, the kitchens, and then a library.
Captain Ishki generally stood back and watched while the soldiers performed cursory physical searches, and the mages took turns using their sight to see beyond what ordinary humans could see. Nothing particrly unusual came to light, which was in line with what theyd expected. If Master Ligish was producing illegal machinery, he wouldnt leave evidence just sitting around.
Gandash was particrly interested in the library.
And I thought my grandparents had a big collection, he said, stepping up to one of the bookshelves and looking closer at the spines.
Ive spent a long time umting this collection, Master Ligish said. Feel free to browse.
Seer Gandash, said Captain Ishki, would you care to stay behind here while the rest of us continue up to the second floor?
If you dont mind, sir.
Thus, they left Gandash with the books, along with a soldier to watch over him.
The tour of the first floorsted about an hour. The entire time, Xerxes felt a mounting sense of unease. He wasnt sure what precipitated it. Perhaps it was the tapestries on the walls, most of which depicted ancient historical battles, or mythological events. Or it could have been the light. Everything inside the castle was illuminated with candles,mps, or torches, but there never seemed to be enough light, and the constant flickering proved disorienting. It might also have been the odd aroma that lingered everywhere, that mixture of mildew, freshly lumbered wood, and solvents. Possibly, it was all of those things mixed together.
The tour of the second floor went more quickly, as at least three quarters of the rooms were empty. And the third floor was dusty and decrepit.
They went down into the cers shortly before returning to the first level and then out into the courtyard. From there, they headed up through a tower and onto the battlements. The tour of the walls, including time spent in each of the towers, took another hour. There was one tower that climbed higher into the sky than any of the others, and they stopped atop it to look out at the valley and the castleplex as a whole.
Whats that area down there? Captain Ishki asked, pointing to a smaller courtyard that they hadnt entered yet.
A wing builtter in history, Master Ligish said, after the castles original construction. It was supposedly built around a cave, presumably used for storage or something along those lines. Its long since copsed. The cave I mean. I can show you.
Please, the captain said.
They climbed down through the tower and went through more corridors until they reached the small courtyard theyd just viewed from above.
Master Ligish pointed to an area where a huge boulder rested against the side of the mountain, surrounded by piles of smaller rocks.
See? he said. It was like that when I arrived. Im curious what lies beyond, if theres anything at all. But moving that boulder would require the use of skilled engineers, the type you can only get from the capital. And frankly, I cant justify that expense. I can hardly maintain the castle as it is, let alone do random excavations.
Interesting, Captain Ishki said. She stepped up to the boulder, reached out, and put her hands on it.
As she did, Xerxes took a closer look at the area but didnt notice anything particrly noteworthy.
They went to a few other out-of-the-way locations in the castle after that. There were a few corridors that were walled off or boarded up. Master Ligish offered various exnations, and said the captain was wee to inspect any of the areas beyond, even if it meant breaking down brick walls or tearing down the boarding. He politely added that he hoped they would clean up after themselves if they did that. Captain Ishki said shed worry about it in the morning.
It waste. Master Ligish offered to provide more food and entertainment, but the captain declined, saying that theyd been traveling all day and needed to rest. She did ask permission to take the mages up to the high tower to look at the stars, and the master of the castle agreed without hesitation. Then he bid them good night.
A few minutester, Captain Ishki and the two mages were alone above the castle, with the soldiers having been dismissed. There were no clouds, allowing a clear view of the endless starscape overhead.
What do you think? the captain asked. Did your mage sight pick up anything unusual?
Not mine, Xerxes said. But I have an odd feeling. Something here seems strange.
I agree, Bel said. My sight didnt reveal anything, but I did notice some unusual things. For instance, there are areas where furniture has been moved around recently. You can tell by the markings on the floor. Especially in the kitchen.
I saw that too, said Captain Ishki. As if something big had been shoved up against the wall up until a few days ago. And his story about the boulder seems strange.
Oh? Bel said.
The captain stepped over, leaned up against one of the crentions, and looked down into the courtyard below. The mages joined her.
There were three things I noticed, the captain said. First, the boulder doesnt look like its been there for as long as he ims. Its not sunk into the ground enough. Theres no moss or lichen at the base. Whats more, from up here looking down do you see any sign of where it might havee from? A rock slide? Something like that?
Looking down, Xerxes immediately realized what the captain meant. Although it was hard to say for certain because of the dim light, there seemed no sign that the boulder had fallen down the slope from above.
You think he put that boulder there to hide whatevers in the cave? Xerxes asked.
The captain shook her head. I dont know. By the way, look over there. She pointed to a specific section of the courtyard. See that area where theres less grass? Its hard to say for sure, but if I was to guess, that boulder used to be sitting there. And not too long ago. Either way, what Ligish said is absolutely correct. It would take nothing short of a team of engineers to move a rock that big. Either that or a group of mages. Would you agree to that assessment?
Definitely, Bel said. It would probably take three or four High Seers. But it would be a lot easier for Ligish to hire engineers than to get a fifth of all the High Seers on Mannemid toe out here and move that rock.
After gazing down at the courtyard for another minute or two, Captain Ishki said, Something doesnt add up, but I suppose well have to think about it more tomorrow. Its only gettingter. Oh, look.
Above them, a re of light streaked across the sky.
Another meteor, Xerxes said, staring at it.
If I was superstitious, the captain said, Id say it was an omen. She stepped away from the battlement and toward thedder leading down. Why dont the two of you go find Seer Gandash. Maybe he found something interesting in the library. If so the three of you can feel free to investigate further. Just be careful. After what happened in Kisiga, I dont want any other mishaps.
Yes, sir, Xerxes said, with Bel echoing his words.
They followed her down into the castle proper, then parted ways as she went to her room. Gandash was still in the library, sitting at a table with a handful of books spread out in front of him. When he heard them enter, he waved them over.
His voice in a near-whisper, he said, You guys arent going to believe this.
Chapter 8: Guesswork and Conjuring (1)
Chapter 8: Guesswork and Conjuring (1)
Gandash looked around the library with furtive eyes. Help me put these books back. Ill exin back in the room.
Xerxes and Bel helped him rece the books hed piled onto the table, then the three of them padded through the dark hallways of the castle to the room that was their temporary abode. After barring the door, all three of them used their mage sight to examine the entire room closely, focusing on the walls and ceiling. From what they could tell, there was no indication someone could be spying on them.
Gathering around the small table against the wall, they leaned their heads close to each other.
Heres the thing, Gandash said in a near-whisper. All the books in the library are old. Like really old. Okay, not every single one of them. But most. And when I say old, I mean like hundreds of years old or more. This isnt the type of collection you easily build up, even over a matter of decades. And its not something you would usually see as a private collection. In a library or museum, maybe.
Xerxes didnt feel the need to question Gandash about how he knew this, nor did Bel. Gandash was a book person, and if he said the books were old, Xerxes trusted him.
Even stranger, Gandash continued, most of them arent books you normally find in Isin. Lots are from Fal, and there are others whose origins I cant specte on. Either way, the point is that, number one, this collection didnt originate in our parts. Maybe not even on Mannemid. Im sure of it. And, number two, the collection is expensive. I mean, Id guess its worth more than my dads entire life savings multiple times over. How does someone who ims to be so poor have a collection like this?
Xerxes frowned for a moment in thought. What do you think it means?
Maybe nothing, Gandash said. In fact, theres probably a simple exnation that I havent thought of.
Maybe he inherited the books, Bel said.
Gandash nodded. Could be. Hes not from around here, right? His ent is off. Oh, theres another thing I noticed. He has a lot of books about fighting.
Xerxes ears perked up. Fighting manuals?
Some. It stuck out to me because I dont know, it seemed weird. Ive been in a lot of libraries back home. Not just the big library at the Academy, or the public libraries in the capital. Private libraries. Dads friends. I even got to see Mystic Aban Saddis den. But in all of that, Ive nevere across so many fighting books.
What do you mean when you say fighting? Bel asked. As in warfare? Strategy and tactics? Or?
No, Gandash answered firmly. Actual fighting manuals. Some are treatises regarding martial arts styles and lineages. Now keep in mind, I only had a few hours, so all I could do was skim things. But I did find it strange.
Hold on, Xerxes said, as a wild notion sprang into his mind from the various bits of information. Let me think for a moment.
Bel and Gandash looked at him expectantly. A minute passed in which he put puzzle pieces together in his head.
Okay, Gandy, listen to this. He exined about their inspection tour, and the boulder Captain Ishki was suspicious of. When he was finished, he said, Obviously Master Ligish didnt hire a bunch of High Seers to put that boulder there. Or any other group of mages for that matter. Nor did he bring engineers from the capital. But. He grinned at his friends. Those arent the only two types of people who could theoretically move a really heavy rock.
The other two mages stared at him with nk expressions for a short time before Bels eyes lit up. A martial adept could.
Martial adept? Gandash said. He considered the possibility for a moment. Unsighted individuals who strengthen their physical bodies, as opposed to practicing magic. They do get extra longevity, just not enough to live more than a few hundred years. But that could exin why he has such a good collection.
I heard they need a lot of resources for their training, Bel added, which is why theyre usually sponsored by one of the three kingdoms. If Ligish is doing this all on his own, it could exin why hes so poor.
But martial adepts are more rare than mages, Xerxes said. Ive heard Isin has two or three in the army, but Ive never even seen any of them. Have you?
Bel and Gandash both shook their heads.
But they do exist, Gandash said.
Plus, Bel added, the Southern Sea is a big ce, much of it being unexplored, for all intents and purposes. Ive heard there are entire tribes of people who cultivate the martial arts. For all anybody knows, there could be a lot more martial adepts than we know.
He does have an odd ent, Xerxes noted. It would exin why he has a bunch of old books. Plus, a martial adept who was a hundred and twenty years old would be strong enough to move a boulder like that.
Okay, Bel said, lets assume that were right. Master Ligish is from the Southern Sea, and is also a martial adept. He has some sort of secret facility hidden in a mountain cave, with the entrance sealed by that giant rock. Even if its true, theres not anything the three of us can do to confirm or deny the theory. Whats more, someone like that could be a real threat to us.
True, Xerxes said. We should probably just report this to Captain Ishki and let her decide what to do. Worst case scenario, she might have us dig around the boulder. What engineers can aplish with skill and mathematics in a matter of days, we and the soldiers could aplish with grit and elbow grease.
Gandash let out a huff. Im disappointed in the two of you. Have you forgotten about me?
What? Xerxes said.
Bel cocked her head. Oh, damn. Youre not suggesting what I think youre suggesting, are you Gan?
Gandash grinned.
It took Xerxes a moment longer to get his mind going in the same direction as the other two. Oh. Ohhhhhh. Shit, how could I have forgotten? He reached out and sped Gandashs shoulder. We have a Buhhu mage on our side.
Bel was their healer, being a student of the Btu order of magic. Xerxes was their fighter, with his focus on Asgagu magic. Comparing those two, Asgagu was considered slightly less difficult, and as a result, slightly moremon. Btu magic was slightly higher on the list in terms of difficulty. But Buhhu magic was the most difficult and rare of all. Gandash only practiced it because of strings pulled by his father to acquire rare and expensive tomes from higher starisles. He also paid a lot, both in cash and favors, to have Gandash tutored by Mystic Aban Saddi, one of the only other Buhhu mages on Mannemid, as well as visiting mages from other starisles. In addition to Gandash and Aban Saddi, there was only one other mage on the entire who had chosen to study Buhhu.
But there was another reason why Xerxes and Bel hadnt initially suggested he used his spellcasting abilities to deal with the boulder, and that was the expensive nature of theponents.
Buhhu magic was the magic of summoning. Not only were the runes archaic and difficult to master, but theponents were rare and expensive. Each order of magic relied on one base ingredient that was augmented to create a uniqueponent for each spell. For instance, all Asgagu spellponents were built on a foundation of talcum powder. Btuponents needed beach sand. As for Buhhuponents they required a reduction of the blood of the creatures to be summoned.
Its too risky, Bel said.
Shes right, Xerxes said. You cant afford to waste your spellponents, Gandy. And thats not to mention the mm. What happens if you cast the spell and it turns out theres nothing behind the boulder?
Granted, that wouldnt be ideal, Gandash said. But think of the glory if were the ones who blow the lid on this thing! Well be guaranteed a spot in a college off Mannemid. Besides, theres something I didnt tell either of you. Before we left, my dad got me two extra portions of blisterscale reduction and a Concentrated Mm Pill. I dont want to waste them, but at the same time, theres no reason for me hold back just because Im worried about losingponents or mm.
Chapter 8: Guesswork and Conjuring (2)
Chapter 8: Guesswork and Conjuring (2)
Hold on, Xerxes said. Your dad got you a Concentrated Mm Pill? Thats got to be worth, what, forty or fifty shekels?
Gandash grinned. Dad said that this mission is a chance to make a big impression, so he went all out to help me prepare. Come on, guys, the three of us are a team, right? And we have everything we need to make this happen. So why not do it?
Xerxes looked at Bel and could see that she was just as surprised as he was. As the two of them sat there with Gandash virtually hopping up and down in his chair waiting for them to respond, Xerxes realized that there was no reason to object.
If things went well, maybe they could have a chance to impress Captain Ishki, and beyond her, the Mage Parliament. If things went poorly, then Gandash wasted some expensive spellponents and some mm. There wasnt exactly any huge downside.
He grinned. Okay, lets do it. Bel? You in?
She hesitated. Shouldnt we at least tell Captain Ishki first?
And lose our chance at impressing her? No way!
A momentter, a smile spread across her face as well. Alright, sure. Right now?
Gandash stood. Right now!
With weapons at their sides andmps in hand, they headed out. The castle was as eerie as Xerxes expected it to be. Even after stepping outside into the cool night, the moldy aroma of the ce lingered in his nostrils.
They didnt see a single person as they crept to the side courtyard with the boulder.
It really is big, Gandash said.
Youre sure the spawn you can summon will be able to move it? Xerxes asked.
Im sure. Even with a simple Spawn Duo, I can summon two Abhorrent spawn, each of which is probably three times as strong as even a Seer. And definitely twice as strong as a High Seer.
What do you need us to do? Bel asked.
Nothing. Just stand guard, I guess. If theres really a secret cave behind here with illegal machinery inside, Ligish might have someone watching.
Xerxes loosened the string on his spellponent pouch and looked around.
The battlements above were empty from what he could tell.
A momentter, a soft clink could be heard as Gandash opened his pouch and pulled out a ss vial. When he popped the cork and poured the contents into his palm, an acrid odor filled the air that caused Xerxes to wrinkle his nose.
Yuck, Bel said.
Gandash chuckled. Abhorrent blood stinks, just like they do. Cant get around that.
Putting the empty vial back in his pouch, he began to trace the Buhhu Isten rune. He went slowly, exercising care to make sure every aspect of the rune was perfect. A momentter, Xerxes saw the mm flowing into two whirlpools in front of Gandash.
Then the summoning portals opened, dark holes within which nothing could be seen but endless emptiness.
Xerxes heart started to pound a bit as he realized that he was about to see an Abhorrent for the first time. After all, the other asions on which Gandash had cast this spell had all been in testing situations attended only by senior mages.
For about a second, nothing happened. Then Xerxes saw something reaching out of the dark portal. It looked like a sleek, whitish stick narrowed into a point. It was followed by a second stick, then a third, a fourth and a fifth. More followed.
Simr appendages then appeared,ing out of the other portal.
As they stretched out further, knobby portions appeared, which proved to be joints. Xerxes realized he was looking at long legs like that of a spider or other insect. The legs curved as they emerged, so many of them that they couldnt be counted easily, although Xerxes was sure there were probably about twenty of them protruding from each portal.
A body emerged from the first portal, pale, with reticted scales, all of them as pale as a corpse.
The thing seemed to have a head, a round, reddish section up front thatcked eyes, mandibles, or any other sensory organs.
As it gained footing outside of the portal, and the second emerged from the other portal, Xerxes gauged their bodies to be roughly the size of arge dog, with a legspan muchrger than that. The things pulsed, presumably as they breathed, but given Xerxes couldnt see any mouth or nostrils, he wasnt sure. Both things were covered with a sheen of slime that turned his stomach. The acrid odor that had filled the air when Gandash poured out the blood became many times stronger, such that Xerxes felt the urge to plug his nose shut.
He nced over and saw a sickened expression on Bels face.
This was an Abhorrent spawn.
The Abhorrent, vile creatures who lurked in the depths of the Nightmare Cove plotting the demise of humanity. At least, thats what most people believed. ording to themon teaching, it was the ancient war with the Abhorrent that had prompted the Pontifarch to destroy or disable all Gateways leading into the Nightmare Cove. Since that ancient time, the Abhorrent had been stranded in that corner of the starsea, and were seen only when Buhhu mages summoned them by force.
The mere presence of this vile creature filled Xerxes with a sense of disgust, but he suppressed the feeling and forced himself to focus on the task at hand.
As the ck portals continued to spin, Gandash raised his hand. Tendrils of mm extended from his fingers into the summoned Abhorrents. His fingers twitched slightly, and the two spider-like monstrosities began to crawl forward on their spindly legs.
They dont look very strong to me, Xerxes whispered.
Just watch, Gandash said.
When the first of the creatures reached the boulder, it raised six of its many legs up, then smashed them down. Chips of rock flew everywhere as the pointed ends of the legs pierced into the boulder, at least a foot deep. The second creature crawled to the other side of the boulder and simrly punctured the stone.
Then both Abhorrent began to pull. At first, nothing happened. They strained, their other legs digging into the soil beneath them, in some cases slipping and sliding before finding purchase.
The creatures scrambled as they pulled, until the boulder actually shifted.
Its working, Bel breathed.
The boulder shifted more. It tipped slowly away from the earth upon which ity, gradually, slowly, until a small space became visible behind it.
It leaned up, up, up, until it tipped over, forcing the Abhorrents to scramble out of the way as it thumped to the ground loudly, sending up a small shower of pebbles, dirt, and dislodged grass. It was loud, but not loud enough that they worried anyone outside of the courtyard would hear. In fact, Gandash let loose a faint whoop as he took a few steps to the side to get a better look at whaty beyond.
Xerxes followed, keeping one hand on hisponent pouch, and one eye on the disgusting Abhorrent.
Bingo, Gandash said.
Taking one final step to the side, Xerxes looked past his friend to see a gaping cave mouth leading into darkness.
I knew it, Bel said.
Gandash started walking forward slowly. Lets get inside while I still have these monsters on a leash.
Chapter 9: Gears (1)
Chapter 9: Gears (1)
Xerxes put hismp down momentarily to draw his longsword, which he rested on his shoulder before picking up themp again. Are you going to send the Abhorrent in first? Or keep them behind us to watch our back?
Theyll scout, Gandash answered. Id rather they be the ones that set off any traps or run into any enemies.
That means one of us should be responsible for keeping an eye on our nk, Xerxes said to Bel. Me, or you?
Me, Bel replied, drawing an arrow and fitting it loosely to her bow, then keeping it in ce with one hand while she resituated hermp in her other hand. Bel was great at hand-to-hand fighting, but like many Btu healers, she had been trained to avoid melee shes whenever possible.
Ill take point behind the demons, Xerxes said. Gandy, youre our brains and our summoner. You need to stay safe in the middle.
Gandash grinned slightly. Alright. Lets go.
Xerxes followed the two Abhorrent as they crawled into the tunnel. The way their pallid bodies glistened in themplight made his skin crawl, and he kept his nose bunched tight in an attempt to fend off their malodorous aroma. It didnt do much good.
The ground was packed dirt, and from the look of it, had seen recent traffic. There was no gathering of dust that one would expect in an abandoned tunnel. The walls, made primarily of dirt and rock, had asional sconces for torches, with one or two containing actual used torches. The Abhorrents long, spindly legs made faint thumping sounds as they walked along.
After going in about thirty feet, the tunnel bent to the right. The Abhorrent made the turn, and then Xerxes stuck his head around.
Theres a room here, he said, proceeding.
Gandash followed. Bel, why dont you stay at the turn while we check out the room. Keep your eyes on the tunnel entrance.
Okay.
Xerxes lifted hismp to distribute its light more widely. In his immediate vicinity, he saw sturdy wooden workbenches as well as a bookshelf, a rug, and a desk with a chair in front of it. There were candles everywhere, unlit.
I only have a few more seconds with the Abhorrent, Gandash said.
Xerxes walked forward more quickly, hoping to illuminate the extent of the room before the demonic conjurations vanished. Keeping his eyes averted as he skirted one of the monsters, he extended his arm until the light touched something at the far end of the room. Something made of wood. A framework of some sort.
I think this is as far as the room goes, he said. It isnt very big.
Light slowly slid over the wooden structure as he neared it, but before he could make out much in the way of details, he heard a sound from behind him that resembled a piece of paper being crumpled into a ball, mixed with something like the pping of a dying fish.
He looked over his shoulder to see the Abhorrent being sucked away into vortexes of pure darkness. Within seconds, they were gone, taking their stench with them. Despite knowing that they would be powerful allies if any sort of fighting broke out, Xerxes felt better having them gone.
Thats not very long, hemented.
Yeah, Gandash replied. I can only summon them for a couple minutes with Spawn Duo. Following Xerxes into therge room, he swept his ownmp around as he examined the ce. Having moved in a slightly opposite direction as Xerxes, hismplight showed more work benches, including one that seemed designed to store tools.
What is this ce? Xerxes said, continuing to move so that hismp illuminated therge structure at the end of the room. The thing was clearly massive, reaching all the way to the ceiling, at least six or seven cubits overhead.
Obviously a workshop, Gandash said, stepping toward the bookshelf.
Xerxes spotted a gear, and his nostrils red slightly. Gears were the most obvious sign of illegal machinery, but they werent necessarily an absolute guarantee that something nefarious was going on. For instance, timepieces, the creation of which was highly regted, werent illegal as long as they didnt have more than three gears. And other crucial bits of machinery that were necessary for a well-functioning society, such as grain mills or water pumps, often made use of rudimentary, interconnecting parts. It was only when the machinery became tooplex that it became dangerous.
As hismp revealed more of the wooden structure, Xerxes hand tightened on the handle, and his eyes widened.
There were definitely more than three gears here. A lot more.
In addition, there were pumps, pulleys, tubes, and other mechanical parts, all intertwined inside of what looked to be a frame nearly twice as wide as it was high. In the middle of it all was thergest of the gears, which had to be at least three cubits from end to end.
Gandash, are you seeing this? Xerxes said.
Looking back, he saw that his friend had been examining the contents of the bookshelf, and was only now turning in his direction.
Oh, Gandash said. Oh wow.
He put down whatever document or book he had in his hand and turned to face the huge machine.
Xerxes looked back at the tangle of equipment. He noticed a table inset into the huge machine, atop whichy a contraption of suction cups as well as a harness of sorts. What the hell is this thing?
Something illegal, that much is clear, Gandash said, stepping across the workshop to put his hand on the side of the frame.
We probably shouldnt sit around studying it, Xerxes said. He faced his friend. This is the kind of thing that will get continents razed to the ground by the Nergal. Even entires. I say we report this to Captain Ishki immediately. Even if we have to wake her up.
Agreed. Gandash started walking back toward the rooms entrance. Xerxes followed, keeping a tight grip on his sword.
As they got close to Bel, she said, Whats in there?
Some kind of technological thing, Xerxes said. Lots of gears and stuff.
Youre kidding me.
Gandash shook his head. No. No joke. We need to get back into the castle and tell the captain right away.
Turning the corner, they hurried down the tunnel and toward the mouth of the tunnel. The entire way, Xerxes expected to hear something from behind him. Some creak or noise to indicate that they hadnt been alone in the room after all. Or perhaps something from ahead. A cough or augh that would prove theyd been watched.
They heard nothing. They emerged from the tunnel and walked past the boulder. There, they stopped for a short moment to look back.
Guys, Bel said, its actually happening. What we talked about before.
Gandash slipped his hands into his pockets, a cocky grin covering his face. I knew I should have negotiated ahead of time in case this happened. Now were going to have to submit applications and all that.
Its just paperwork, Xerxes said, also grinning. How much you wanna bet that this time next year, were in a college in a higher starisle?
Not likely, a voice said.
All three young mages spun and looked toward the source of the sound, a location on the wall that surrounded the small courtyard. A figure stood there, face obscured by the shadows cast by the moon. However, his voice was distinct, and there was no questioning who he was.
Chapter 9: Gears (2)
Chapter 9: Gears (2)
Master Ligish, Xerxes said, taking a step forward into the Longpoint guard position. I think you need toe with us to talk to Captain Ishki.
Master Ligish chuckled, then stepped forward and jumped off the battlement.
Bel gasped.
The battlement, being about fifteen cubits from base to the crentions, wasnt exactly a massive cliff. But it was high enough that an ordinary person would never casually leap off of it.
But Master Ligish did. He plummeted down,nding in a thump that caused one of his knees to touch the ground briefly before he stood up straight and tall. No longer was he hunched over, and in fact, his posture made him seem like an entirely different person.
The hell Gandash murmured.
Ligish was wearing sleeping garments consisting of a robe and loose pants. Underneath the robe, he was shirtless, and the fabric having shifted aside during his jump, it was now possible to see muscles that had previously been hidden by his frilly garments. His muscture was so defined as to be chiseled, as if he had been sculpted from granite.
I admit I made a mistake, Ligish said. I should have dug up better information about who the Parliament sent to intrude on my work. I never imagined a Buhhu mage would have been in the group. If Id known a conjurer was here, I would have taken more thorough measures to make sure my workshop remained safe.
Xerxes heart rate was starting to climb. The implications of Ligishs words werent exactly veiled inplicated wording. He nned to do them harm. Xerxes fingers tightened on the hilt of his sword.
I know the name of every mage on Mannemid, Gandash said. And youre not a mage. Which leaves only one possibility regarding who, or what, you are.
Ligish reached to the belt that secured his robe. Tugging on the end, he pulled it away and threw his robe off, revealing his spectacrly muscled torso, shoulders, and arms. First of all, youre foolish if you think theres no way for mages to sneak on and off of worlds. Mages from higher starislese to hellholes like this all the time. Who doesnt like to do a bit of slumming now and then? Although, youre right. Im not a mage.
I knew it, Xerxes thought. Hes a martial adept.
In any case, I dont n to sit around here chatting, Ligish continued, telling you my grand n. Im just going to kill you. Then kill the rest of your convoy as they sleep. Its going to cause a lot of trouble, as Ill have to dismantle everything and move away. But by the time the Mage Parliament realizes whats happened, Ill be long gone.
Xerxes mind was racing. He didnt know very much about martial adepts, other than the fact that they didnt live as long as mages, but were faster and stronger. Thest two points were the most salient.
Keeping his eyes locked on Ligish, he put hismp down, stabbed his sword into the earth next to him, and then reached down to hisponent pouch. Though the sword would give him a huge advantage in an ordinary fight, this wasnt going to be an ordinary fight. If he was going to end up tangling with a martial adept, he would much rather have his entire hand be an expression of pure power that could burn through flesh and muscle.
Looking at him, Ligish said, Let me guess, youre an Asgagu mage. He shifted his gaze to Bel. And youre either Nasaru or Btu?
Xerxes pulled a handful of powder out of his pouch.
Ligish looked back at him. Ah, crabnickel powder. I was right. He cracked his knuckles. Really, the only question for me is who to kill first. Evenbined, your total strength doesnt surpass mine. So picking you off one by one will be
Can you please just shut the hell up, Xerxes said. After the disaster of hisst fight, he wasnt eager to jump into a deadlybat. On the other hand, he really didnt feel like listening to a speech. Holding the crabnickel powder at the level of his sr plexus, he carefully traced the Asgagu Isten rune. Mm flowed, filling the lines of the rune and causing them to glow brightly before the energy swept throughout his body.
Bright light spilled out in all directions as his hand turned into a glowing expression of power. He clenched it into a fist.
Right to the point, Ligish said. I like that. Fine, I suppose Ill kill you first.
He dashed forward, moving much faster than Xerxes knew Seers were capable of.
I need to hit his throat or temple, Xerxes thought, preparing tounch a jab.
However, at thest second, Ligish veered off toward Gandash instead.
Shit, Xerxes thought. Of course Ligish would rather take out Gandash first. If Gandash summoned two Abhorrent, Ligish would have a much greater challenge to deal with.
Xerxes shouted something indistinguishable even to himself as he lurched after Ligish.
There was no catching him. The man bore down on Gandash, who didnt even have time to react before the martial adept leaped into the air and spun, sending his foot flying toward the mages face.
Ligishs flying kick was something that even Xerxes would have feared. Gandash, who didnt have the same fighting background, didnt stand a chance.
The foot hit him in the side of the face, and he crumpled like a marite with its strings cut.
Hey, Xerxes shouted, why dont you
Ligish spun, jumped forward, and nted his fist right in the pit of Xerxes stomach. He grunted as the force threw him off his feet, and he flew backward at least four or five feet before mming face first into the earth.
Pain and nausea rippled through him, and he groaned. But it wasnt his first time being knocked down in a fight, so he forced his hands onto the ground next to him and pushed himself up.
As he looked up, he heard a twang as Bel unleashed the arrow shed nocked.
Ligish caught it out of the air.
Damn, Xerxes thought. It was one thing to catch a thrown knife. Catching an arrow was an entirely different matter. Hed seen people do it, after years of training. But it wasnt something even Asgagu mages did inbat, as it was too dangerous. The situation had to be carefully controlled, with both performers standing in specific positions, a fixed distance between them, and the timing executed perfectly. But Ligish had aplished it as casually as Xerxes had caught Gems knife in the tavern.
Ligish snapped the arrow and tossed it aside.
Ignoring the pain that filled him, Xerxes tried to get to his feet, but failed.
Sorry, love, Ligish said to Bel. Its the end of the line for you. It pains me to kill such a pretty little girl, but when you tangle with people like me, you cant expect anything else.
As he strode toward her, Bel reached to her quiver with trembling fingers and tried to draw another arrow.
Come on, you gotta get up! Xerxes shouted at himself. He forced himself onto his feet. At this point, he had only one option. He had to run as fast as he could toward Ligish. He bent his knees as he prepared to dash forward.
Bel got an arrow halfway out of the quiver before her fingers got the best of her and she dropped it back down.
Fuck, she murmured.
Quite a foul mouth for such dainty lips, Ligish said. He was now only about three paces from her.
Youre going to have one shot at this, Xerxes said. Quietly taking in a deep breath, he started running toward the martial adept.
Chapter 10: Prototype Three, Iteration Four (1)
Chapter 10: Prototype Three, Iteration Four (1)
Xerxes shouted no battlecry. He ran on the balls of his feet, trying to prevent his footfalls from making any undue noise. At the same time, he ran as fast as he could. And as he neared Ligish, he clenched his hand into a burning, white fist. He still had a few seconds left before he would have to recast Singr Lethality.
I can kill him with one blow if I hit him right, he thought. Even if he failed, he would at least do significant damage.
Bel shrank back from Ligish, all the while fumbling endlessly with an arrow that refused toe out of the quiver.
Xerxes halved the distance between himself and the martial adept, and still saw no reaction from the man.
I got this, he thought. With only a few paces separating the two of them, he pulled his fist back and eyed the spot on the ground ahead where he intended to nt his foot and generate the force for his blow.
Just as his foot touched the spot, Ligish spun, delivering a roundhouse kick that smashed into Xerxes before he could lift an arm to deflect the blow. Luckily, the kick didnt hit his jaw, but instead, his shoulder. Otherwise he would have been knocked unconscious. Nheless, it threw him to the ground and sent him flopping to the side.
You think Im deaf or something? Ligish said. ncing at Bel, who had finally pulled another arrow out, but couldnt get it nocked properly, he stepped toward Xerxes. Im almost a hundred and fifty years old. Youre a tenth my age, or thereabouts. You really think you could best me inbat?
Scrambling back onto his feet, Xerxes kept his burning hand out in front of him, palm open.Only to see it flicker back to normal.
FUCK! he shouted at himself. It couldnt have been a worse time for the spell to end. Grabbing a fistful of powder, he shouted, Bel, can you get to the captain?
A sh of surprise appeared on Ligishs face as his n to eliminate the mages before having to deal with the soldiers was suddenly threatened.
I I. Bel stammered.
Ligish turned as if to make a move on Bel, and that was when Xerxes cast Singr Lethality a second time. He moved quickly. More quickly than was safe, but it earned him a spare second or more. As his fist once again burned with fire, he shouted, Hey! and then pounced, iling his hand toward the martial adept in what had to be the sloppiest blow hed delivered since he was a toddler.
Sloppy it might have been, it was effective. He hit the man in the chest with the heel of his palm, and though it was a ncing blow, the power of Singr Lethality was enough to melt flesh, eat through muscle, and bite into bone. Ligish screamed and instinctively lunged away from the burning force.
Xerxes followed up with his own roundhouse kick,nding a clean blow on the mans calf before following up with a Singr Lethality haymaker.
Ligishs chest was smoking, and melted flesh still popped and bubbled around the wound. But he ducked out of the way of the blow, and even managed to reach out and grab Xerxes forearm. Then he snapped his leg out in a vicious kick, knocking Xerxes foot out from under him. Before the young mage could recover his wits, the martial adept pushed his arm into the back of Xerxes elbow in a movement that seemed casual. And yet, such was the strength of a martial adept that Xerxes arm snapped.
He screamed as bones shattered and tendons ripped. Ligish then kneed him in the stomach, dropping him. Finally, he grabbed him by the hair and jerked his head back.
You little son of a bitch, Ligish growled, forming a knifehand that he pulled back to deliver what was obviously going to be a killing blow.
The Singr Lethality spell wouldst for seconds more, but it didnt matter, as the horrifying break in his arm made his limbpletely unusable. In fact, the pain was so intense he could hardly breathe, but he still tried to make a fist with the other hand. Xerxes tried to let out a growl, but it sounded more like a whimper.
Ligishs muscles tensed, and he inhaled as he prepared to deliver the blow.
That was when something long, thin and white suddenly slid over his shoulder andtched onto his chest. Followed by another slender, pale appendage. At the same time, a noxious odor washed over Xerxes.
What? Ligish growled.
Three more spindly legs mped onto his chest, while a handful grabbed his arm.
Xerxes shuddered as he saw two Abhorrent behind the man, dragging him in the opposite direction.
Get out of there, Xerk! Gandash yelled.
Ligish released Xerxes head, grabbed one of the spider-like legs, and pulled it away from his chest. In the meantime, two more legs grabbed onto him.
Ignoring Gandashs suggestion to flee, Xerxesunched a strike with his uninjured hand. He caught Ligish directly in the jaw. The man red back at him and tried to punch him, but hideously stick-like Abhorrent leg grabbed his arm. Keeping his injured arm pressed against his side, Xerxes punched him again. Then again. The pain from his injury was nothing but a dull awareness dampened by adrenaline. For now.
Ligish tried to kick him, but failed.
Xerxes punched again. And again. Over and over until he lost track of how many blows hednded.
Eventually, Ligish went limp. But Xerxes wasnt going to leave anything to chance, so he kept beating the man until his face bled.
We got him, Xerx, Gandash said, stepping around his conjured Abhorrent spawn.
Xerxes dropped to his knees, moaning as he cradled his damaged arm. That was when he realized his other hand was cracked and bleeding, and it hurt so bad it was likely hed broken fingerbones and knuckles. Fuck, it hurts.
He felt Gandashs hand on his shoulder. Bel will be back in a minute, and youll be fine.
Xerxes nced at Ligish again, just to make sure the man really was out cold. Then he chuckled, though there were shades of both madness and fear in it. We did it, Gandy. Didnt we?
Gandash made a sound that resembledughter. I think we did.
Bel returned. However, Xerxes injuries were severe enough that she didnt want to cast Minor Restoration until Sergeant Aniskipel took a look. Aniskipel, who was an army surgeon, did a few things that sent waves of immense pain through Xerxes and forced him nearly to the point of cking out.
Okay, go on an eal him, Aniskipel said.
Bel cast Minor Restoration, and Xerxes gritted his teeth as his bones and tendons grew back together properly. After a few seconds, the pain rose to such a level that he moaned. Then it was over. Wiping the sweat off his forehead, he grinned. All good. Thanks, Bel.
Even though the damage was repaired, for many hours afterward, Xerxes kept rubbing his elbow. The pain somehow lingered in his mind. He felt certain that he would never forget the sound and feeling of his arm being snapped the wrong way. Nor of beating a martial adept into unconsciousness, and breaking his own hand in the process. The mere thought of it all made him shudder.
Chapter 10: Prototype Three, Iteration Four (2)
Chapter 10: Prototype Three, Iteration Four (2)
By the time Captain Ishki came with Sergeant Tamharu and a few other soldiers, Gandashs second pair of Abhorrents had long since vanished to whence they came. Ligish was still unconscious. The soldiers wasted no time binding him in a quasi-ritualistic fashion that was designed specifically to counter the strength of a martial adept.
Martial adepts were rare, but the armed forces of all three kingdoms on Mannemid were trained to deal with them. After all, there were all sorts of martial arts traditions floating around the, especially in the inds to the south. While it was virtually impossible that the armed forces of any nation would encounter a mage without prior warning, it was entirely possible that a martial adept could show up and cause problems out of nowhere.
Despite it being the middle of the night, there was a massive flurry of activity.
Soldiers ran through the castle arresting all of Ligishs people, with the exception of a few who sessfully fled into the Yellow Forest, including the servant who had met them at the gate when they arrived.
The three young mages took Captain Ishki into the workshop theyd discovered.
The captain let loose a string of profanity under her breath, then hooked her fingers into her belt and said, Well done, you three. Very well done. Except for the part where you almost got yourselves killed. Again.
We survived, sir, Xeres said. All three of us.
That you did. Okay, walk me through everything.
The aftermathsted for about three hours. Upon closer examination, they found that the boulder had been attached to a special contraption hidden in the mouth of the cave, which was designed to make it easy to move the rock by inserting a rod into a hidden spot where the stone met the earth.
Wait, does that mean him being a martial adept had nothing to do with how he moved the boulder? Bel asked.
Gandash shrugged.
Late into the night, the captain let the three mages get some sleep. By that point, all of the terrible excitement had worn down, and they were exhausted to the bone.
The next morning, they woke early when Sergeant Tamharu knocked at their door.
Captain seeks mage counsel, he said. Foods waiting out here in the corridor. Find her in the courtyard when youre done.
Fifteen minutester they were outside in the main courtyard, lined up in front of Captain Ishki.
Hope the three of you can make do with only a few hours sleep.
Of course we can, Captain, Bel said.
Good. Heres the thing. I dont want to spend another day in this ursed castle. Illegal machinery is nothing to take lightly. If we dont handle this properly, we could get the attention of the Nergal. And nobody on Mannemid wants that. So were going to be packed up and out of this ce by lunch time. Now, let me ask you a question: do any of you have a clue what that damn thing is? Or even a guess?
Xerxes shook his head in the negative, and he saw Bel and Gandash doing the same.
I figured as much. Ligish and his people are all staying tight-lipped, and we dont have time for hard interrogation. In other words you have about four hours.
To do what, sir? Gandash asked.
To try and find something that tells us what the thing does. Im having the men search this ce as thoroughly as possible, but Im getting the feeling theres only this one machine on the premises. I dont think Ligish was tinkering with all sorts of technology. He was focused on this one thing. In any case, I had the men move his personal diaries down into the library. I suggest the three of you start going through everything. Of course, well be bringing as much as we can with us. But once we start traveling in earnest, there wont be time to sit around doing schrly work.
Understood, Captain, Bel said.
Good. Off to it, then. Report back if you find anything. If not, be ready to leave around the lunch hour.
She turned and strode off briskly.
Well, Gandy, Xerxes said, looks like we got put on library duty. Your kind of thing, eh?
Gandash smiled. You know it. Shall we go to the library?
Theres also that bookshelf in the workshop, Xerxes said. How about you two go to the library, Ill hit the bookshelf?
Sounds good.
Xerxes trotted to the secret tunnel. Inside the workshop, four soldiers were at work dismantling the illegal machine, while Goran was off to the side keeping a record of all the parts.
Hows it going fes? Xerxes asked them.
Ey, Xerk, said Goran while scratching the final details of a sketch into his notepad. Complicated and nasty, this thing is. Aint no ogdown machinery, I tell you that.
Hogdown, Xerxes thought. It meant ordinary, and was a ng word from his home neighborhood that brought a smile to his face.
Yeah, said another soldier named Shiram. Taking this thing aparts like doing a damn puzzle backward.
Goran looked up from his notes. Eard that Ligish fellow was a martial adept, but you three took im down anyways.
We did, though I got my arm snapped clean in half in the process.
Cant even imagine, Shiram said. I seen stab wounds, cuts, scrapes. Even saw a fellows finger cut off once. But arm snapped in alf? He gave a dramatic shudder. Dont sound fun.
Xerxes asked a few questions before turning to the bookshelf and starting to go through all the contents. After an hour, hed gone through about half the items but hadnt made much progress. The titles seemed random, and included everything from martial arts manuals to a history of the pork industry in Fal. None of it seemed interesting. In fact, he didnt even see anything he thought Gandash would like. There werent any treatises on magic, nor any journals or diaries. After taking a break to get some water, he set at it again.
Halfway into his second hour of investigation, he found a brown, oilcloth package that looked like arge envelope, wrapped in twine. Opening it, he pulled out a thick stack of paper, each sheet of which had been treated to make it partially translucent.
Spreading them out on the table, Xerxes breathed, Is this it?
The top sheet had a huge gear on it that resembled the one that had upied the central position in the machine, but was now leaning against the wall, having been disconnected by the soldiers. Beneath that sheet was ayer depicting awork of pulleys. Each sessiveyer contained different bits of machinery. After ncing through them, Xerxes put one on top of another, then lifted them up so that the light from the tunnel shone through them.
Oh yeah, he murmured. Put together and illuminated with the outside light, it was just barely possible to confirm that the various drawingsbined to form aplex technical drawing of the gearwork machine. Many of the sheets had lines of precisely written lines of text, notes or exnations of some sort.
Find something, Seer Xerxes? one of the soldiers asked.
I think so. You fes keep working, Im taking this to the captain.
Sure thing, sir.
Grabbing the oil paper folder, he began cing the sheets inside, taking time to closely examine each one before doing so. Upon reaching the bottom sheet, he noticed arge line of text at the top.
Life Force Extractor and Distitor.
Beneath it were a few other lines of text.
Prototype Three. Iteration Four.
Hunh, he murmured. He put the papers in the folder, tied the twine, then hurried out of the corridor.
Needless to say, Captain Ishki was beyond delighted. Gandash was slightly disappointed that he wasnt the one to find the paperwork. However his disappointment onlysted for a moment.
Excellent work, Xerk, he said. Looking at Ishki, he said, Captain any chance I can take a look at the papers?
The captain only hesitated for a brief moment. Im afraid not, Seer. If the Nergal investigates this matter, then the fewer people whove seen the papers, the better. And if I were you, Seer Xerxes, Id try to forget anything you saw when you found them.
Xerxes heart flip-flopped at the thought of the Nergal. Yes, Captain Ishki, sir. Once I knew what Id found, I packed them away and brought them to you.
Thats mostly what happened, he thought.
With the machine schematics having been found, the captain saw little need to continue poking around the castle. The soldiers finished dismantling the machine, and Ligish and three of his servantsone of whom was the one who had spied the three mages investigating the boulderwere bound and thrown onto the cart next to the machine parts and other bundles of evidence.
Shortly after the lunch hour, they left the crumbling stone edifice and made their way down the mountain and back into the thick of the Yellow Forest.
Chapter 11: More Meteors (1)
Chapter 11: More Meteors (1)
For some reason, the Yellow Forest seemed a lot less charming to Xerxes. It hadnt changed. He had. When he looked around, the shadows seemed stickier. The vines seemed like they were trying to choke the life out of the trees. Even the animal sounds seemed more malevolent. What had previously seemed like the merry chatter of fuzzy animals now seemed like the dangerous click of razor-sharp teeth. The fact that the soldiers didnt seem interested in singing songs added an additional level of gravity.
After twenty minutes within the trees, he shook his head and took a few deep breaths. Come on, Xerxes. What are you a baby? Scared of the dark?
It wasnt the first time he had to force himself to clear his thoughts. Every so often, he shook his head and forced himself to control his breathing to clear his thoughts.
Given the distance between the various rest and camp areas within the Yellow Forest, there was no point in trying to push for greater speed in getting back to Kisiga. They spent the night in the same spot theyd camped on the way to the castle.
For mages, advancement in the magical arts was a tricky business, especially when on a campaign such as this. And Xerxes knew that every moment spent refilling and refining his mm was crucial. As such, he spent as much time as possible in meditation that evening, gathering mm from his surroundings and packing into his energy chamber. Gandash and Bel did the same.
Most ordinary people thought of meditation as strange. A mage would simply sit quietly, eyes closed, hands on knees, breathing in a prescribed fashion. The soldiers in the convoy, however, worked directly for the Mage Parliament, and were used to the practices of mages. They made sure to keep the camp as quiet as possible while the mages went about their work, and made sure they had water and food waiting when their meditation sessions came to an end.
As a Seer, Xerxes had a single chamber of energy, and if he wanted to reach the next level, that of the High Seer, he needed to form a second chamber of energy. The process of forming that second chamber involved filling his first chamber with mm, then using that entire stockpile to start building the walls of the second chamber. With the existing chamber having been emptied, he needed to refill it, a process that took no short amount of time. Afterward, he would drain it again to continue the work on the second chamber. Mages referred to that process as Flushing.
In order to advance from the Seer to the High Seer level, a mage had to perform twelve Flushes. Given that ordinary meditation practices would allow a Seer to fill their chamber in two months, it meant that by focusingpletely on meditation and Flushes, and not casting any spells, it would generally take about two years to reach a breakthrough point.
Before leaving on the mission, Bel had performed four Flushes, Gandash had done two, and Xerxes hadpleted one. On the road to the castle, they had spent a bit of time on meditation, but not much. And now all three of them had cast spells, reducing their stockpile of mm. For Xerxes and Bel, it wasnt as much of an issue. Asgagu and Btu Seers could both cast twenty spells before draining their single chamber. But for Gandash, it was a different story. It took about nearly half of his total stockpile of mm to cast a single Spawn Duo. And hed cast the spell twice. Needless to say, he didnt hesitate to consume the Concentrated Mm Pill his father had given him. That gave him enough mm that he could cast Spawn Duo again in an emergency, but it didntpletely refill his chamber.
The next night was spent in the same tavern in Kisiga. The coroner there had finished his work, and gave them an ornate box containing Gems remains. Captain Ishki gave the box to Xerxes, who packed it together with the box of money that he intended to deliver to his friends family as soon as they got back to the capital. When he thought of facing Gems wife and telling the story of her husbands passing Xerxes throat felt thick.
What would he say? How would he say it?
All he knew was that it had to be done, and he owed it to histe friend to see everything through to the end.
Captain Ishki had everyone wake up early, go through morning prayer, and then pack to leave. As they gathered in the street outside the tavern, two burning streaks of light passed overhead.
More meteors, Xerxes said as he pulled a pile of books out of his traveling pack. What the hell is going on?
Bel stared up at the light. Well probably find out more when we get back home. The Mage Parliament must have noticed. They probably dug up every old book about meteors that exists in the Academy library.
I doubt its anything worth worrying about, Gandash said. I was reading a bookst year abouts in other starisles that have recurring meteor showers. Sometimes yearly.
Xerxes shuddered. Maybe. All I know is that these meteors are giving me the creeps.
It was only then that Gandash noticed Xerxes books. Say, Xerk, I havent seen you do any book study this entire time. Are you finally going to buckle down and do some reading?
Xerxes grinned wryly. Matters of energy chambers werent the only things mages had to consider. Book knowledge regarding the runes was also a factor. Yeah, I dont want to fall behind. Once I form my second chamber, I want to have already mastered the Asgagu Sebum rune.
Oh? So youre going to skip Asgagu Sanum?
Yeah. He held up his fist and looked at it. Im getting tired of relying only on this.
Just adding your foot to your arsenal isnt going to cut it for you?
Xerxes dropped his fist. Exactly. Once I can augment my sword, Im going to be a thousand times more effective.
Gandash grinned. I can only imagine.
Chapter 11: More Meteors (2)
Chapter 11: More Meteors (2)
Now that they were out on the open road, and could make camp anywhere they wished, Captain Ishki set a much faster pace. Everyone was happy toply with her orders. The thought that they were carrying a load of illegal machinery weighed heavy on the minds of all, though the soldiers did a passable job of pretending to forget about it.
What if the Nergal shows up and punishes us for just looking at it? Xerxes thought on more than one asion. Others in the convoy were clearly thinking the same thing. The Nergal was, on the one hand, a bogeyman adults used to frighten children. On the other hand, he was very, very real. He was a punisher sent by the Pontifarch to deal with rebels, sphemers, and heretics, and he supposedly inflicted pain and death on the subjects of his wrath. Granted, neither Xerxes nor anyone else on Mannemid had ever seen him. But everyone knew he existed, and they knew what happened if he arrived in a starisle. People died. In fact, there were stories of him destroying entire starisles.
Every member of the convoy was happy to run a bit farther and harder than usual. As a result, they passed by the spots along the road that were generally used for camping. Given the peace in recent years on Mannemid, and the rtivew and order in Isin, there was no reason to fortify their position or hide their camp from passersby.
The first night out from Kisiga, they camped on a hill overlooking the road.
The second night, they chose a spot off the road and near a small forest that Private Apuulluunideeszu told them about, as he had traveled through these parts before he became a soldier. On the third day of travel, the clouds returned, slowly filling the sky until it was dark and leaden.
Rainsing, I bet, said Goran.
However, rain never came. As the days of travel passed, they slept in a random valley, on another hill, near a farmhouse, and then, by chance, at a campsite. As they neared more civilized parts of the kingdom, they saw more towns and viges, but skirted them whenever possible. In some cases, the road ran right through such ces, but they never stopped. Captain Ishki didnt want to risk word spreading among the popce about what the convoy was carrying.
For Xerxes, the journey from the capital to Kisiga had been one of excitement and anticipation. This trip back was nothing of the sort.
Although Gandash and Bel didnt exclude or avoid him, they obviously wanted privacy, and he amodated them. Which meant that he ended up stewing in his thoughts more frequently than before. He kept remembering how it felt to have his arm broken. He thought about Gem dying in front of him, and killing the woodsman Biru. He tried not to think about the Nergal.
He spent time talking with the soldiers, but it was different than before. Early on, hed been trying hard to impress them and fit in with them. Now, they seemed to ept him readily, and somehow that left him feeling empty.
Meditating to gather mm from the surroundings was an easy way to not worry about his thoughts, so he did that as often as possible. But it was difficult to meditate on horseback unless you were virtually born into the saddle. It required one to sit absolutely still, and Xerxes just couldnt do that while swaying on the back of a huge animal.
The following day, they began making their way through hilly terrain that served as a line of demarcation between what Isinians considered the outskirts of the kingdom, and the interior. Captain Ishki set a slightly more rxed pace of travel given the terrain.
You alright? Gandash asked sometime after lunch.
Huh? Xerxes said.
Youve been looking a bit more I dont know, thoughtful than usual. The past few days.
Oh. Xerxes shrugged. Maybe because its the longest Ive been away from home? I dont know. Im fine. Just been thinking about a lot of things.
Alright. Well, guess what? Bel has a bottle of wine shes been hiding this whole time. Want to share it with us at dinner?
Yeah, sure.
Captain Ishki called an early stop when they found a hilltop campsite not too far from the road. After tending to the horses and other camp-rted duties, Xerxes ate with Gandash and Bel for the first time since they started on the return trip. In the back of his mind, he almost regretted pushing the two of them to be a couple. Almost. It was nice to eat and drink with friends.
As they were cleaning up from the meal, Xerxes heard something of a stir from one of the nearby campfires.
Looking over, he saw the soldiers rising to their feet and pointing into the sky. He looked up.
There was a bright light in the dark clouds overhead, traveling at a rapid speed. A momentter, an enormous ball of fire dropped down. At first, Xerxes thought it was flying toward their camp, which caused his heart to leap into his throat. However, a momentter, he realized it wasnt flying directly toward them.
It was a meteor, of course.
Obviously, it was muchrger than any of the ones theyd seen on the trip so far. It was so close that Xerxes could clearly see the mes and smoke, and he almost felt like he could reach up and touch it.
A loud hissing sound filled the air, reminding him of the sound of an arrow just shot from a bow.
As the burning object flew overhead, most everyone in the camp ducked reflexively, simultaneously turning to watch the thing falling toward a nearby forested area.
It descended, disappearing into the darkness of the trees. A momentter, they heard a muffled boom, and Xerxes was certain he felt a tremor in the ground beneath his feet.
Chapter 11: More Meteors (3)
Chapter 11: More Meteors (3)
Wow, Gandash said.
It must have hit the ground less than a league away, Bel said.
A murmur of conversation filled the camp as the soldiers sat back down around their fires.
Guys, Xerxes said, remember what we were talking about back in the Yellow Forest?
Bel nodded. I remember. Youre wondering whats inside that thing, arent you?
Yeah.
Probably metals, minerals, that kind of thing, Gandash said. There are quite a few spellponent ingredients that can only be found in meteorites.
Xerxes rubbed his hands together and then cracked his knuckles. We should go check it out. Think about it, Gandy. You cast two Spawn Duos. How much do you think those doses of blisterscale reduction cost?
A lot.
If that meteor has some rare stuff in it, you could probably recoup what you spent on those spells. Thats not to mention the green bedonna sand Bel used, and my crabnickel powder.
They would getpensation for their time on this mission, but it would hardly suffice to recoup their losses. And though they could submit applications for additional remuneration, there was no guarantee the Mage Parliament would approve of their spellcasting decisions. In other words, they might bepletely on the hook for theirponents.
Xerxes could see Gandash hesitating, and scrambled to think of something further to say that would pique his interest.
Before he coulde up with anything good, Bel reached out and put her hand on Gandashs forearm.
Gan, she said. The blisterscale reduction was a gift, so its not like you need to rece it. But Xerxes and I have to pay for our ownponents. We didnt get preemptive approval to cast spells on this mission, and who knows if well end up gettingpensated. And even if we do, it could take months before we see the actualponents.
Gandash shook his head as if he felt embarrassed. Of course. I was just thinking of myself. We should go check it out. Or at least, ask the captain her opinion. He looked over in the direction of Captain Ishkis campfire. While he was looking away, Bel caught Xerxes eye and gave him a look that said, thank meter.
Xerxes covered a smile by clearing his throat.
Well, who could have guessed? he thought. Apparently, all it took was a girlfriend to get Gandash to understand how money worked.
Ill talk to her, Xerxes said. You two finish cleaning up.
Hurrying across the camp, he found Captain Ishki and Sergeant Tamharu in deep conversation. Not daring to interrupt, he sped his hands behind his back and waited off to the side. Ishki noticed him fairly quickly.
Can I help you, Seer?
Captain, the other mages and I were thinking it would be a good idea to investigate that fallen star.
You mean the meteorite?
Yeah, that. It could contain valuableponents for spellcasting. Besides, we figure the Mage Parliament might want information about them. Thest part was something that had urred to him right before he said it.
Believe it or not, Captain Ishki said, thats what Sergeant Tamharu and I were just discussing. Its likely the Parliament already sent mages to investigate other meteorites, but given the fact were so close, I feel wed be remiss to not take a look. She turned to Tamharu. Sergeant, pick four other soldiers and two of the mages. The horses are already picketed and calmed down, so go on foot. You should be able to make it to the point of impact, look around, and get back before itspletely dark. If it turns out to be farther away, turn around. I dont want you tramping around the countryside after nightfall. Got it?
Yes, sir, Tamharu said.
Xerxes opened his mouth to ask if all three mages could go together, but apparently Ishki had guessed he would do so, for she raised a hand to cut him off.
Im not going to send all my mages off to investigate a mysterious space rock, she said. Have our resident bookworm stay behind. Seer Bel is the healer, so take her with you. Theres virtually no chance ofbat, but going over rough terrain in the evening isnt the safest thing to do. Do you agree, Sergeant?
Yes, sir. Looking at Xerxes, he said, Ready yourself, Seer. Make sure you and Seer Bel both have yourponent pouches. Well leave in ten minutes.
Xerxes hurried back and informed Bel and Gandash of what was happening. Gandash was disappointed to be excluded, but wasnt the type to gripe about orders.
And thus, ten minutester, Bel and Xerxes followed Sergeant Tamharu out of the camp on foot. Behind them were four other soldiers, including Private Ap, Rihan, Goran, and Tekinalp.
At the far end of the camp was a ridgeline. Beyond it, they slid down rough shale and then started hiking toward the forested region. They were soon climbing through boulders and scraggly trees. At least it wasnt the Yellow Forest.
They hiked for about an hour, until the sky began to fill with evening colors.
Look, over there, Private Ap said, pointing.
Beyond a hilltop not too far away, a wisp of smoke rose up, then disappeared. A momentter, another wisp could be seen.
That must be where it fell, Sergeant Tamharu said. No time to waste. We only have about two hours of light left.
The climb up the hill seemed to take forever. Xerxes cursed to himself every time his foot slipped in the dirt, all the while wondering what they would see when they reached the top. About halfway up, his nose twitched as he detected an odd smell. In response, he inhaled deeply, but the smell was gone.
Tamharu reached the crest of the hill first. By the grace of the Pontifarch, he said, stepping to the side to make more room for those behind him.
Bel was next, then Xerxes.
The hill curved both to the left and right, creating something like a horseshoe shape. On the other side was a wide valley that had once contained trees and vegetation. However, the falling rock had destroyed everything around it. They were looking at a smoking crater surrounded by ckened trees and crushed boulders.
The crater was only about five or six cubits in diameter, but was so deep that, from the hilltop, it wasnt possible to see its bottom.
Xerxes nose twitched again.
Did you smell that? Sergeant Tamharu said, his face wrinkling slightly.
No, sir, Private Ap said.
Xerxes had indeed noticed the strange smell. But it passed so quickly, he wasnt sure what it was. It wasnt anythingforting, though. And it caused a seed of unease to form in the back of his mind.
Looks, somethings moving, Bel said.
Xerxes hand dropped to his spellponent pouch as he craned his neck looking for any sign of motion.
Chapter 12: Crater Investigation (1)
Chapter 12: Crater Investigation (1)
Atop the hills, soldiers and mages alike stood stock still, all of them staring down to try to find the signs of movement Bel had mentioned. Several seconds passed.
Maybe it was just smoke, she said.
Xerxes eased the ties on hisponent pouch, just in case.
Rihan, said Sergeant Tamharu, you circle around that way. He gestured to the right. Ap, you go the other way. Both of you keep spears out and shields up. Stay atop the hill, but try to get a better angle of view. Try to see whats inside the crater. Tekinalp and Goran, nock arrows and spread out a bit. Xerxes, be ready for anything. Bel, forget your bow. Have your pouch open and your spell ready, just in case.
As Rihan and Ap drew their weapons and loped in opposite directions, Tekinalp and Goran prepared their bows. Bel loosened herponent pouch.
As for Xerxes, he left his pouch loose and ready to ess, and unsheathed his longsword. Given the tense circumstances, he wasnt even thinking about the fact that this was his first time going into a potentially dangerous situation with soldiers at his side.
Unlike the other infantrymen, Tamharu had a sword, but not the unusual type Xerxes preferred. Instead, he had a short bronze de that was perfect when used inbination with a sturdy, round shield.
All of a sudden, the odd odor Xerxes had detected earlier rose in intensity, filling the area with a scent like that of rotten eggs and bile.
Private Tekinalp made a gagging sound, and Sergeant Tamharu coughed.
Disgusting, said Private Goran. Do rocks from eaven usually smell like this?
Aint never been around a space rock, Tekinalp said. Ave you?
Nope.
A breeze sprang up, and the smell faded.
No chit-chat, you two, Tamharu said.
Sorry, sir.
Xerxes adjusted his grip on his longsword in the Reaping guard position, with the hilt slightly back and the tip forward. He wasnt quite sure why he felt the need to be so prepared forbat, but it feltforting to at least have his weapon at the ready.
It took less than a minute for Ap and Rihan to reach good positions further along the hilltop. A momentter, Rihan called out, Sergeant, theres definitely something in there. Cant tell what it is. Something lighter-colored than everything else. Maybe a rock.
Sergeant Tamharu let loose a breath that hed apparently been holding for a very long time. Okay. We can deal with rocks. Cupping his hand to his mouth, he raised his voice and said, Ap, you got anything?
Ap, who was craning his neck and leaning forward, said, I see that white thing in there. Yeah, it does look like a rock.
Seers, do you have any insight? Tamharu asked, tapping his sword onto his shield a few times absentmindedly.
No, sir, Xerxes said.
Bel shook her head. Sorry, sir.
Alright. Well, I still feel like we might as well take things slow. Taking a half step forward, he said, Rihan, approach the crater nice and slow. Get a closer look and tell us more.
Sure thing, Sarge. Keeping his shield in front of him and his spear resting atop it while pointing forward, Rihan carefully climbed down the hillside, and was soon picking his way through the smoking vegetation and shattered rocks.
When he was about halfway to the edge of the crater he stopped. Its moving, he called up.
Hold! Tamharu called. Then he lowered his voice and said. Fuck. Rocks dont move. Tekinalp, Goran, be ready to loose arrows at any moment. Be ready for spellcasting, Bel.
He took a few short steps forward until he was on the downward slope of the hill.
All of a sudden, Xerxes eyes were drawn to something in the middle of the crater, a pale object rising up slowly from within. At the same time, the unusual odor returned, its acridness causing Xerxes to subconsciously scrunch his nose.
As the white shape rose higher, something suddenly clicked in Xerxes mind.
Bel, he said quietly, not turning his head, keeping his eyes fixed on the white object. The smell. Do you.
He trailed off as he realized what the white object was.
A woman.
His jaw nearly dropped as he realized there was a naked female standing up in the middle of the crater. Both her skin and hair were a creamy white color, creating a nearly blinding contrast to the darkness of the smoking crater around her. It was a different paleness than Bels skin. Bels skin, though light, was almost pink in some ways,pared to the dark olivemon to Isinians.
But this woman who had fallen from the sky had skin the color of a maggot and hair like bleached bone. Due to her position, it was only possible to see her from the waist up, as though her legs were curled beneath her in a trough within the crater itself. In fact, that pale hair stretched so far down her back it piled messily on the ground.
She had her arms crossed over her chest, partially concealing her breasts, and obscuring the curve of her waist. As for her face, her features were attractive, and though her eyes were closed, it was possible to see two slips of maroon the color of drying blood that were her lips, her mouth neither smiling nor frowning.
Normally speaking, Xerxes heart would have begun to pound at the sight of an unclothed woman standing right in front of him. But there was something about this woman.
The noxious odor waxed dominant, pushing away all of the smell of the wild hills, and recing it with something positively vomitous.
Tamharu choked again, and the other two soldiers made spitting sounds.
Xerk, Bel said, her trembling voice barely above a whisper. The smell, its like from back at the castle. Those spider things.
Abhorrent, Xerxes said, almost uncertain if the word hade out of his mouth. He raised his voice. Sarge, its not a woman, its an Abhorrent.
Tamharu turned to look at him, eyes squinted in disbelief. Thats not possible.
It wasnt possible. Or at least, it shouldnt have been. The Abhorrent had been isted in the Nightmare Cove for millennia. Quarantined. Imprisoned.
Other than those summoned by mages, they were never seen. Never even heard of, outside of stories and the tales spun by bards.
How could one be here?
And yet Bel had spoken the truth. The stench that filled the area, though not exactly the same as that which emanated from the Abhorrent spawn Gandash had summoned, was indeed very simr.
It shouldnt be possible, Sarge, Xerxes said. But Bels right. Maybe theres a mage nearby and this is a summoned Abhorrent. But its an Abhorrent. Rihan needs to get out of there, now.
Chapter 12: Crater Investigation (2)
Chapter 12: Crater Investigation (2)
There were only two other mages on Mannemid who studied the order of Buhhu, and the thought of either of them somehow being out here in the wilderness randomly summoning Abhorrent seemedpletelyughable. If this Abhorrent wasnt summoned, then.
Rihan, fall back, Tamharu said.
The pale womans eyes opened and she looked around slowly. Ya shlf n''ghft ep, she said in a voice both resonant and grating, the words she spoke so iprehensible as to be nightmarish.
Rihan backed up, catching his foot on a rock and stumbling slightly. At the same time, the woman extended her hand in his direction. The movement revealed her breast, but Xerxes wasnt paying attention to that as he watched her fingers suddenly extend unnaturally in Rihans direction. They moved quickly, like striking snakes, arcing through the air toward the soldier.
Rihan was no stranger tobat situations, and ducked behind his shield. But the fingers seemed to ignore any knownws of physiology or motion as they simply curved around the barrier.
Before Rihan could react, two of them stabbed into his neck and shoulder, while the others wrapped around his arms. He shrieked miserably and shed at one of the white fingers with his spear, severing it. The severed portion, which had been wrapped around his forearm, dissolved into a white ichor that sttered to the ground beneath him.
Loose arrows! Tamharu shouted.
Two arrows flew forth, one piercing the womans chest, just below her corbone, the other hitting her arm. She ignored the arrows. Then a squelching sound could be heard as the just-severed finger reared back and then shot forward, stabbing into Rihans biceps. Xerxes heart flip-flopped at the horror of it.
Fuck! Rihan shrieked, and again shed at the gangly fingers.
Sir? Bel said, her hand hovering above herponent pouch.
Just wait, Tamharu said. After all, Bel needed to touch someone for her healing spell to work.
The Abhorrent woman jerked her arm, and the bizarrely extended fingers began to retract, pulling Rihan with them, dragging him along the ground despite how he kicked with his feet and swung his spear wildly.
Loose arrows again! Tamharu shouted. Ap, get back here now! Mages, take cover.
More arrows flew, but they seemed of no concern to the Abhorrent.
Sarge, we cant just let Rihan Tekinalp began, but Tamharu cut him off.
Nobodys going down there.
Rihan writhed as she dragged him closer, until he was right in front of her. With her free hand, she reached out, grabbed his throat, and ripped it open. His cries ended along with the shower of blood and cartge.
Then the woman shoved her free hand into the pit of his stomach, just below the breastbone, and jerked it around briefly. Bak mm, she spat, and threw Rihans corpse down in front of her.
Ap was running back to their position, and the other two soldiers had shot more arrows, both of which prated the Abhorrent womans torso. Snarling more words in that disgustingnguage, she reached down and pulled each arrow out of her before tossing it to the side. Then she rose up out of the pit, and that was when Xerxes heart nearly skipped a beat.
She didnt have legs, at least not in the human sense of the word.
A pale, spindly limb like that of a spider gained footing on the rocky crater. Then another, and another. It reminded Xerxes of Gandashs summoned Abhorrent, and he suddenly wondered if this terrifying woman was somehow rted to those two spawn.
Ap was back, and the woman was rising out of the ground, dozens of bug-like legs supporting her as her hair flowed behind her. Somehow, it was only now that Xerxes noticed her eyes, which were ck like the night. And they seemed to be looking at him.
Smiling, she extended her arm, and suddenly her horrible fingers were shooting in his direction.
Xerk! Bel blurted.
Reality seemed to blur for a moment as he felt like he was back in the tavern in Kisiga, up on the stage, with Gem throwing knives at him. Except, there werent two objects flying toward him, there were five. And he knew that if he didnt react perfectly, he would end up skewered just as poor Rihan had been.
There wasnt really time to think, so he reacted on instinct. Drawing his sword up and to the right, he defended himself from two of the fingersing from that angle. The de shed through the serpentine things, preventing them from reaching him.
Two more he dodged mostly by luck and the way his body shifted after moving his sword. The fifth missed him as he tilted his head to the side.
He could see the disgusting, maggoty flesh inches from him, and the stench from it was almost overpowering.
He heard a choking sound from his left, and turned his head to see that one of the fingers had curved to the side and pierced Tekinalp through the throat.
A slithering, slurping sound could be heard as the rest of the fingers simrly curved toward the now-doomed soldier. The bow tumbled from his hand as fingers pierced his belly and wrapped around his arms, then started dragging him back toward the crater.
Back down the hill! Tamharu snapped.
Xerxes took a step backward, and watched in horror as Tekinalp was pulled inexorably toward the pale, many-legged Abhorrent woman. Then he turned and scrambled down the hill, flipping his sword to face backward along the way.
Fuck, fuck, fuck! blubbered Ap.
The other surviving soldier, Goran, wasnt saying anything, but his face was nearly green as he lunged his way down the hill.
The trees will give us more cover, Tamharu said. Mages, you can run faster. Dont hesitate. Get back to the camp immediately!
Sir, Xerxes replied, what if
Thats an order! the sergeant shouted. Get back to the camp!
Gorans foot caught on something, and he tumbled. Being just off to the side, Bel slid to a stop and knelt to help him, wrapping her hand under his arm to pull him up.
Which was when five white streaks stabbed into her.
Chapter 13: Retreating and Preparing (1)
Chapter 13: Retreating and Preparing (1)
A fraction of a second passed in which Xerxes perceived everything in slow motion. Bel jerked forward as the Abhorrent womans disturbingly structureless fingers stabbed into her. She flinched as droplets of blood sttered onto her face from the wound.
Also in that fraction of a second, he thought about Gandash, and how he smiled when talking to Bel. He thought about how all three of them had been closepanions from the moment they arrived together at the Academy. He thought of the mischief they had got into in the capital, as well as the challenges they had ovee. He thought about how, only days before, they had been the ones to uncover the illegal machinery, and how that likely would put all three of them on the path to studying in a higher starisle.
In that brief moment, anger overrode fear. Swiveling, he flipped his sword around, grabbed the hilt with both hands, and lunged back in Bels direction.
Xerxes! Tamharu shouted. Dont you
Bel screamed as the fingers tightened and pulled, yanking her off her feet. However, shed already grabbed onto Goran, and that saved her. Apparently, the Abhorrent womans disgusting fingers had immense reach, butcked immense strength. Bel nearly lost her footing, but she kept her grip on Gorans arm as if her life depended on it, which likely it did.
Meanwhile, Xerxes reached the scene and shed out with as much precision as he could muster, cutting through four of the five fingers.
A guttural shriek erupted from the Abhorrent as her fingers were severed, causing them to snap backward like loosened rubber bands. The fifth one came with them. The portions which had pierced through Bel copsed into acrid, grayish-white liquid, while at the same time, Bel herself fell to the ground. Then the fingers whipped back in their direction.
Help her, Goran, Xerxes growled. Fueled by adrenaline, he took two steps forward and shed at the fingers again. He didnt hit a single one.
In fact, one of the pping white strips grabbed onto his upper arm. He swung the sword again, wildly, but missed, and ended up in an even worse position as a rubbery white appendage pped onto the de of his sword, just above the crossguard.
What the hell am I doing? he thought, but before he could consider how to retreat, the sword was yanked out of his grip and tossed away. Then, two iling white fingers snapped onto his ankles, and one encircled his neck. He tried to wrench himself free, but failed, and felt himself being dragged up the hill. He reached up and grabbed the tentacr finger wrapped around his neck and attempted to rip it away. It held firm.
He was halfway up the hill when, without even realizing what he was doing, he scooped a handful of crabnickel powder out of hisponent pouch.
Only six or seven cubits away, the bare-breasted Abhorrent woman licked her lips as she stared at him. The teeth in her mouth were sharp and pointed, and her tongue was long and red.
Xerxes traced the Asgagu Isten rune into the crabnickel powder, and though he was sure his finger trembled like a de of grass in a windstorm, after he drew thest line, he felt the mm flowing through him.
He was only two cubits away from the Abhorrents gaping maw when his hand began to glow brightly. He was one cubit away when he curled his fingers into a fist.
The Abhorrent opened her mouth even wider.
Xerxes threw his fist out, not in a wild haymaker like his fight with Ligish, but instead, a tight jab. He hit the monstrous woman in the eye, and his burning fist bit deep into her maggoty flesh, causing an immediate venting of steam and smoke.
The woman howled and stumbled back, dropping him in the process. She reeled left, her spidery legs clicking on the rocks as she nearly fell onto her side. She lurched to the right and then scuttled back over the crest of the hill, covering her wounded face with her hands.
He took a single step forward, briefly considering trying to take advantage of the spell to inflict further harm.
No, I need to get out of here.
He turned to see Goran trying to get Bel onto her feet. Tamharu was further down the slope, and Ap was a short distance away, looking back at them.
It looked like Bel was unconscious. His eyes darted around looking for his sword. He caught sight of it and jumped over to retrieve it.
Xerk, Tamharu said, take Bel back to the camp posthaste.
As his Singr Lethality spell faded, and his hand returned to normal, Xerxes bound over to Goran and Bel. Looking down, he saw that her eyes were closed but she was clearly breathing.
Yes, sir, he said. Goran, help me get her on my back.
With the soldiers help, he wrapped his arms around her thighs and held her tightly. He took a few experimental steps to the bottom of the hill. By bending forward a bit, he could keep her bnced atop him while he ran.
Go as fast as you can, Seer, Tamharu said.
I will. Sergeant please, hurry back.
We will.
Xerxes started running and didnt look back. He dreaded the prospect of hoarse screams ringing out from behind him, but none came. Rihan was dead. Tekinalp too. No doubt about it.
Sergeant Tamharu, though, was tougher. Hed fought in actual battles. He wasnt going to fall to that monster. Was he? No, he wasnt. He would get Goran and Ap back to the camp safely. Xerxes knew it.
Soon he was in the trees, pumping his legs without restraint. Now that he didnt have to worry about non-mages keeping up with him, he could run at top speed. And Seers were much faster than Unsighted. The trees turned into a blur before giving way to rocky terrain.
At about the halfway point he stopped very briefly to check on Bel. Shey against him with her head on his shoulder, breathing shallowly.
Bel? he said. Bel!
She didnt respond.
Chapter 13: Retreating and Preparing (2)
Chapter 13: Retreating and Preparing (2)
Muttering curses, he continued running. He couldnt help but think back to their training at the Academy.
In a lecture, Mystic Aban Saddi had said, Btu mages need to be protected at all costs duringbat. Other mages and soldiers can sustain all sorts of grievous injuries, but as long as your Btu mage is there to heal them, you can afford that. If your Btu mage is struck down, though, it can spell doom for all.
Why did Tamharu have Bel right up front? Xerxes thought. This is all his fault.
Leaping off of a ratherrge boulder and onto a stretch of t earth, he gritted his teeth. No use casting me. I could have reminded him to keep Bel safer. Maybe Im the one to me.
The trip which had taken an hour via walking barely took a minute of top-speed running for a Seer.
Up ahead, Xerxes caught sight of the camp, framed against a deep blue sky that was rapidly turning violet as the sun set behind him. He noticed two soldiers standing apart from the others, obviously the sentries. Thankfully, the sentries noticed himing before he zoomed into the camp area, bringing a cloud of dust with him.
SURGEON! Xerxes shouted, bounding toward the captains campfire.
More shouts rose up in the camp, and he heard Gandashs voice among them. There wasnt time to respond. Even as Captain Ishki rose to her feet, a look of rm on her face, Xerxesy Bel down carefully next to the fire.
What? the captain said, but Xerxes cut her off.
Abhorrent, he said. That meteor had an Abhorrent in it, and it attacked us. Leaning over Bel, he found one of the spots where the tentacr fingers had stabbed into her. It wasnt difficult to identify such locations, as they were soaked in blood. At the same time, they were smeared with semi-translucent slime that reeked of Abhorrent.
The captain was now leaning over Bel. Youre certain it was an Abhorrent? Was it summoned? Could it be a rogue mage?
Not summoned, Xerxes said. At least it doesnt seem like it. Rihan is dead. Sos Tekinalp. Then Bel got hurt and Tamharu told me to bring her back. Hes behind me with Ap and Goran.
What happened! Gandash said, pushing his way through the small crowd that was already forming. Bel? Bel!
Shes hurt but shes breathing, Xerxes said. BEL! He put his hands on her shoulders and shook her gently. There was no response. Where the fuck is Aniskipel?
Ere! Im ere! What appened?
She has wounds here, here, and here, Xerxes said, pointing out the areas. There are two more. Cant you just wake her up? Once shes awake she can heal herself.
Aniskipel dropped his medical bag onto the ground next to him, opened it, and pulled out a wrapped package. Smelling salts might do the trick.
At the same time, Captain Ishki rose to her feet. Everybody but Aniskipel, form up. That includes both Seers.
Captain, Gandash protested, I
It wasnt a suggestion! the captain shouted. Youll be our most powerful weapon if were really dealing with an Abhorrent. Now go get ready. And while youre at it, have Seer Xerxes exin what he saw. See if you can tell us anything about this specific abhorrent. Strengths. Weaknesses.
Yes sir.
Xerxes followed Gandash back to their belongings. Gandash grabbed his knife and put it on his belt, then checked hisponent pouch, which was already tied to his waist. Xerxes opened his traveling pack and rooted inside to find therge jar of crabnickel powder tucked in its depths.
Shell pull through, Gandy, he said. I can feel it.
When Gandash didnt respond, Xerxes looked over and saw tears glistening on his friends cheeks. He looked away. Having found his jar of powder, he pulled it out and made sure hisponent pouch was topped off. Then he started putting on some of the bits of armor he had at his disposal, including bracers, a padded jacket, and shin guards.
So, tell me what you saw, Gandash said. What did it look like?
It was big, but not that big. It had a human torso and legs sort of like the spawn you summoned. And its fingers could stretch really long, and move as fast as arrows.
It could be a more mature version of the kind I summoned, but Im not sure. The stretching fingers were some sort of magical power. That means its beyond the spawn level. Its at least a juvenile. Given the size, though, its got to be on the lower end of juveniles.
Okay, what does that mean?
It means we might not be totally outssed. He was now strapping a knife to his belt. The strongest and oldest juveniles are going to berger than the one you described. And they manifest two magical powers. If we were up against something like that, we wouldnt stand a chance.
Gandashs words caused hope to flicker in the back of his mind. You should probably tell the captain.
Yeah.
After equipping themselves, they did just that.
Less than fifteen minutes had passed since Xerxes returned to the camp.
Just as Gandash finished telling the captain what he knew about Abhorrent, a shout from the edge of camp drew their attention.
Its Sergeant Tam! a soldier shouted. Es back with Ap and Goran.
Xerxes and Gandash joined the captain as she hurried over the ridge. Sure enough, off in the distance, they saw three shapes hurrying toward them.
Good, Xerxes murmured. They all made it. I knew they would.
More soldiers gathered on the ridgeline to watch their three fellows hurrying toward them, with the backdrop of a beautiful sunset behind them.
Archers, pull arrows and apply golden henbane, Captain Ishki called.
Xerxes nced at the line of soldiers and saw several of them with bows, who were now pulling out arrows, as well as small vials filled with a yellowing paste. Golden henbane was amon medicinal substance that, if reduced properly, became very toxic.
Xerxes looked back at Sergeant Tamharu and the others running toward the camp.
Why did she have them apply the poison? he thought. Did she see something? As far as he could tell, there was no sign Tamharu and the others were being pursued.
Seer Gandash, the captain continued, be ready for spellcasting, but wait for my mark. Seer Xerxes, if any fighting breaks out, I want you standing guard over Seer Bel and Sergeant Aniskipel. We need her awake and ready for spellcasting as soon as possible.
Yes, sir, he said. His hands clenched into fists as he watched the three soldiers making their run. They were now so close that they had to be only about two minutes from the ridge. They were definitely going to make it.
That was when he noticed movement among the distant trees.
Chapter 14: Abhorrent Attack (1)
Chapter 14: Abhorrent Attack (1)
Murmurs rippled through the soldiers at the ridgeline.
In the oly Pontifarchs name, someone said.
What the ell is that?
Xerxes countenance fell as he saw something white, moving at a speed that surpassed anything human or animal. Even a Seer could run faster than a horse, but this thing was moving faster than any Seer.
Come on, Sergeant, Xerxes muttered.
The rough terrain didnt cause any problems for the Abhorrent, whose multitude of many-segmented legs moved with wave-like rhythm as it navigated easily through the boulders and ravines.
As Tamharu, Ap, and Goran neared the ridge, the Abhorrent closed in on them.
The buzz among the soldiers had died down, and the only sound to be heard above the faint breeze was the creak of armor and the scrape of gauntlets against weapon hilts.
Nock arrows, said Captain Ishki.
Xerxes throat tightened as he watched the Abhorrent getting closer and closer.
Seer Xerxes, fall back, Captain Ishki said.
Dammit, he thought, not wanting to leave the ridge in such a tense moment. But heplied, trotting back toward where Sergeant Aniskipel was still tending to Bel.
Whats going on? Aniskipel asked.
Abhorrent is chasing Sergeant Tamharu, Ap, and Goran.
Fucking ell, the surgeon muttered.
Hows Bel?
Not sure. Dont think she as a fever. None of the wounds seem really bad, but smelling salts arent doing much. Dont know if theres much else to do but wait.
From the line of soldiers on the ridge, a chorus of shocked exmations arose. Xerxes looked over, but had no way of seeing what was going on further below.
Loose arrows! Captain Ishki said. Keep firing!
Twangs rang out as the archers sent arrows flying downward, then prepared to shoot again.
Xerxes heart pounded in his chest. What was happening?
Theyre not going to make it, a soldier said loudly.
Theyll make it, another responded.
I dont know. a third added.
Get ready for shock fighting, Captain Ishki yelled. Squad One, get those shields up! Seer Gandash, get back and wait to cast a spell on my mark.
More bowstring twangs rang out.
Xerxes could see soldiers stepping back from the ridgeline. He subconsciously put his hand down to Bels shoulder and sped it tightly.
Make room for Tamharu and Ap! Captain Ishki shouted, herself backing away from the ridge.
Xerxes saw Sergeant Tamharu scramble over the ridgeline. He was panting, covered in sweat, and his eyes shone with terror. Right behind him came Private Ap, who looked equally terrified.
Shields together! Tamharu shouted as he lunged forward.
Three ribbonlike streaks of white appeared, iling as they descended on Ap. He shouted in fear as twotched onto his leg, and one of them stabbed into his shoulder.
NO! Tamharu yelled, jumping back with his sword raised.
It was toote. Ap disappeared over the edge of the ridge.
More arrows! Captain Ishki yelled. Then get back behind Squad One.
Aps in the way! a soldier blurted, but he was the only one who refrained from shooting. Then the archers backed up.
By this point, Tamharu, who led Squad One, was part of the line. Stay tight! Dont let this thing through!
Captain, Gandash said, should I
No, wait for my mark!
Xerxes saw the white hair and ghastly pale skin of the Abhorrent woman as she climbed up. The right side of her face looked hideous where Xerxes had punched her. Her eye had beenpletely destroyed, and much of her disgusting skin was burned or melted away. In addition, there were numerous arrows sticking out of her, which she grabbed one by one and threw to the side. And yet, none of those things seemed to hamper her movement.
Grk baya mm! she said in that grating voice. Grk baya mm-oth!
The Squad One soldiers held their position.
She continued to rise up, her spindly legs stabbing into the earth of the ridge crest as she heaved herself onto the t ground, all the while repeating the same iprehensible words as before, albeit with slight variations in vocabry or tone. Along with her came that indescribable stench that caused the nose hairs to tingle.
Xerxes instinct was to turn and run. Instead, he took a breath, stood, and lowered his hand to hisponent pouch.
But then the creatures eyes seemed to lock onto him, and she smiled and began moving in his direction. A wave of dizziness swept through him, forcing him to step backward. He tripped over Bel,nding on his rear and nearly tumbling onto his back.
Almost in concert with his fall, the Abhorrent woman stopped moving, and the grin faded from her face. Then she moved forward, only for her spindly front legs to lose their grip. She faltered, and half fell.
The henbanes working! a soldier shouted.
More arrows! Captain Ishki cried.
About half of the archers had the presence of mind to fire again, with only about five of the arrows plunking into the Abhorrents maggot-colored skin. Growling, she got back to her feet, only to sway sharply to the side, nearly toppling over. Then she spat out some words in her bizarrenguage, before spinning and making what looked like a drunken dash back the way shede, leaping over the ridgeline and disappearing from sight.
The entire camp was filled with silence. Even Captain Ishki just stood there breathing hard, a haunted look on her face. Off to the side, a soldier made a gagging noise.
Moments ticked by, and then people started moving again.
Keep it together, Squad One! Sergeant Tamharu yelled. Lets get Ap back to safety. Forward!
Seer Gandash, the captain said, hold your position.
The Squad One soldiers started inching toward the ridge.
Xerxes mbered back to his feet and looked quickly down at thisponent pouch, worried that hed spilled some of his crabnickel powder when tripping over Bel. He hadnt.
Tamharu led Squad One forward, taking the final cubit or two at a near crawl.
Chapter 14: Abhorrent Attack (2)
Chapter 14: Abhorrent Attack (2)
Xerxes half-expected the Abhorrent woman to suddenly jump up and start ripping the soldiers to shreds. That didnt happen.
Squad One stopped at the ridgeline, and then a few groans could be heard. Tamharus shoulders slumped.
Sergeant? Captain Ishki said.
The thing isnt anywhere in sight, Tamharu reported. Ap and Goran are theyre gone.
Xerxes learnedter that both men had been killed violently. Gorans remainsy in ake of blood just before the base of the hill. Ap had essentially been ripped in two, although his entrails connected the two parts. Xerxes didnt see the sight with his own eyes though, for Bel woke up shortly after the conclusion of the frenzied melee.
After her eyes fluttered open, Sergeant Aniskipel helped her into a sitting position.
Gandash was already there. Bel, are you okay?
Not sure, she said, her voice trembling.
You were urt pretty bad, girl, Aniskipel said. Will an ealing spell fix it?
I hope so, she said.
She lost an entire dose of green bedonna sand when her trembling fingers resulted in a failure of her first healing spell. The second spell worked. Whatever the disgusting ichor was that the severed Abhorrent parts left behind, it didnt seem to have caused infection or sickness.
Gandash wrapped his arms around Bel, and she returned the embrace.
Nows not the time for that sort of thing, Captain Ishki said from a few feet away. Refill yourponent pouches and be ready. Raising her voice, she gave out new orders.
The camp was reorganized. The fires were moved to different locations. Additional fires, muchrger than those in the camp, were started at the base of the hill, in the four cardinal directions. More sentries were assigned, ten in total, with four of them focused on the direction the Abhorrent had originallye from, and the others facing the other directions.
Spent arrows were retrieved. Spare arrows were brought out. All light infantry, the archers essentially, took time to apply golden henbane to as many arrows as possible. Unfortunately, they had been on an inspection tour, and didnt have arge stock of henbane or many of the other assets that could have been useful.
They did have tools with which to build entrenchments. Shovels, picks, pry bars. But to create anything that would help defend against a monstrous Abhorrent would have taken far too long, so Captain Ishki said not to bother.
She gave a speech to inspire the soldiers, and also provided detailed orders about how to defend the camp.
Everyone was on edge for about two hours after the attack. They sat with weapons in hand, anxiously tapping knees, humming random tunes, or staring out into the deepening darkness.
The remains of Ap and Goran were retrieved. Sergeant Aniskipel packed them into bags and had them put on the cart.
Master Ligish demanded to be set free.
No, was Captain Ishkis simple answer.
Its murder, Ligish said. If that thinges back, me and my people will be ughtered, with no way to defend ourselves.
Ishki pursed her lips and walked away from him.
Another hour passed with no further developments. At that point, the captain came over to the mages.
You three need to get some rest, she said. Bed down in the middle of the camp, and Ill have some men watch over you. Be ready if that thinges back. Especially you, Seer Bel. I dont want to lose anyone else on this mission.
Xerxes was exhausted but couldnt fall asleep. It seemed Gandash and Bel were in the same boat. Theyy there on their bedrolls, staring up into the darkness.
After a while, Xerxes closed his eyes and tried to think of calming things. It was impossible. This mission had turned from a dream into a nightmare that only seemed to get worse and worse with every day that passed. How was it possible that they were facing an Abhorrent? It had been millennia since they were something to worry about. Now there was one out in the night, staring at them and nning how to rip them to shreds.
But how? Xerxes knew what the official history sses taught. The supposed Pontifarch had disabled all the Gateways leading to the Nightmare Cove, so it shouldnt have been possible for them to go anywhere else in the starsea.
More important than the how was the why. Why was this thing chasing them? Did they have something it wanted? Or was it just a bloodthirsty beast who tried to kill anything it saw?
Xerxes eyes opened, and he jerked up into a sitting position.
Gandash noticed, looking over with eyes so wide they looked like they might pop out of his skull. Whats wrong? he whispered.
Bel sat up and put her hand on herponent pouch.
Nothings wrong, Xerxes replied quietly. Its just that thing came out of a meteorite that fell from the sky. So what about all those other meteors we saw? Did all of them have Abhorrent in them?
The thought chilled him to the bone, and when he turned to look at his friends, he saw that they look no less haunted.
Xerxes cleared his throat. Sorry, I probably shouldnt have said anything. It just just urred to me.
Hey back down.
Now his thoughts wandered even more. He thought about his family back in the capital. He thought about Gandashs family. Of their friends. Their teachers in the Academy. The other mages who called the capital home.
Which direction had the meteors been falling? Could any have fallen in the capital itself? Or nearby?
At a certain point, he fell asleep. One moment, he was obsessing about an army of monsters invading the capital, the next he was in a deep slumber.
He started dreaming. He, Bel, and Gandash were attending ss in the capital when suddenly the building caught on fire. They ran out to find meteors smashing into the city around them. Everything was burning. He heard screams. The screams grew louder. Louder still.
His eyes snapped open.
The screams were real.
The Abhorrent was back.
Chapter 15: Racing Back to the Capital (1)
Chapter 15: Racing Back to the Capital (1)
This time, the troops were ready.
As Xerxes kicked the nket off his legs and jumped to his feet, Bel and Gandash scrambled up as well.
The Abhorrent had approached the camp from the opposite direction, but sentries spotted her before she reached the hillside. The archers released arrows as she was climbing up. The missiles pierced her skin, and her putrescent odor spread over the camp. Before the archers could get off a second round, she met the line of heavy infantry, fully armored soldiers with spears and shields.
Her fingers, which could attack with blinding speed from any direction, were deadly. But they couldnt prate armor. During the initial sh, the heavy infantry repelled her, causing her to stumble back down the slope.
After catching her footing, she came back at them with intense fury. Two soldiers fell almost simultaneously, their throats ripped out. A momentter, another dropped, screaming as he clutched his face, which had been ripped open from forehead to chin. Spindly legs physically shoved aside the spears nearest her as she mmed into the shields and tried to climb over the line of soldiers.
Xerxes, get ready for shock fighting, Captain Ishki cried. Bel, have your healing spell ready. Gandash, summon help.
I only have one spell left.
NOW!
Xerxes heard the clink of vials as Gandash pulled out another dose of blisterscale reduction. Mm flowed, and two dark portals appeared.
The Abhorrent spawn were different this time. There were no spider-like legs and pale flesh. Instead, what looked like two ck eggs dropped onto the ground, covered in a thickyer of brown ooze, like tubercr mucus coughed from the lungs of a dying codger.
Another rank odor spread through the camp, simr to that from the woman, but with a mustier undertone.
As soon as the ck eggs appeared, they somehow stretched in the direction of the Abhorrent woman. Now it was possible to see that they werent eggs, but rather, were two balls connected with a springy, putty-like tissue. One of the balls would stretch forward, p onto the ground, and the other would flip over it. Then the stretching would ur again. In this manner, the summoned Abhorrent crossed the hilltop like nefarious inchworms.
Behind them stretched a trail of brown mucus that, after a few seconds of contact with the ground, hissed and melted into the earth, causing small clouds of steam to rise into the air.
Meanwhile, there were more shouts from the armored soldiers, who were barely fending off the Abhorrent woman. As she came to understand how armor and shields work, her attacks became more judicious. What was more, in physical terms, she was vastly stronger than even the Seers. Two more men fell.
She didnt notice the summoned creatures until they were nearly upon her. In fact, it wasnt until Gandash cried out, Get the soldiers out of the way!
The heavy infantrymen fell back, but in their confusion, they created more openings for their opponent. Three men fell. That was when the monstrous woman looked at the ball-mucus creatures and spat something in her iprehensiblenguage.
She backed away, but wasnt quick enough, as one of the balls flipped over and pped into her at the waist, just above where her host of spindly legs began.
She shrieked and shed at the balls with fingers and legs alike. But their mucus-like coverings acted like paste or glue. And then, hissing sounds filled the air as the Abhorrent womans flesh began to melt from contact with the slime.
Arrows! Captain Ishki shouted.
The archers unleashed more henbane arrows into the woman, firing as fast as they possibly could.
The Abhorrent woman screamed and attacked the balls with renewed fury. But the sudden addition of the spawn,bined with the poison arrows, seemed too much for her. A momentter, she lost her bnce and tumbled down the hill.
More arrows! Ishki yelled.
The archers advanced and sent additional missiles into the night.
Shes running away! a soldier shouted.
Do we give chase? another yelled.
No! Captain Ishki ordered. Stand down. Form up and be ready for another attack. Sentries, keep your eyes peeled in case shees from another direction.
Gandash sent his summoned Abhorrent out into the night in pursuit, but Spawn Duo onlysted for a short time, whereupon the ball-like things vanished along with their caustic mucus.
Casualties were bad. The poor men whose throats had been ripped out never stood a chance. The other five who fell after them were all killed in simr ways. But the soldier with the injured face, whose name was Dagim, survived. He wouldnt have, if Sergeant Aniskipel had been the only one present. Aniskipel was a decent surgeon, but there was only so much he could do with mundane medical supplies. Bel healed Dagim with spellcasting. After it was over, he was left with only the traumatic memory of his facial flesh and muscles being shredded.
All of the other injuries were handled by Aniskipel.
When things calmed down, Captain Ishki let half the men sleep, while the other half stood guard. She ordered the mages to get rest.
Unlike the soldiers, who seemed capable of falling into a deep sleep at a moments notice, regardless of the surroundings, Xerxes just couldnt getfortable. When hey t, the ground seemed to push against the small of his back. When he turned onto his side, his shoulder started getting stiff. Bel and Gandash were also tossing and turning, another distraction that made sleep impossible. But eventually, in the deep part of the night, he finally sumbed to exhaustion. He dreamed of his family, especially his mother and sister.
When Sergeant Tamharu shook his shoulder to wake him, the glow of morning was just bing manifest through the thick cloud cover.
Up and at em, Xerk, he said.
Ten dead. If they counted Gem, it was eleven. By any metric, the mission was an abject disaster. Furthermore, given the circumstances, it made no sense to lug the bodies along with them. Captain Ishki had them dig shallow graves at the base of the hill, which they marked with wood nks.
Welle back for themter, she said. On my word.
She kept Ligish and his servants bound. However, instead of sturdy manacles for the servants, she had their wrists tied with rope that could easily be cut with a de if necessary. And she took personal responsibility for the key to theplicated contraption used to restrain Ligish.
Will you help us fight if, ites to that? she asked him.
If it means my life? he replied. Of course.
After all the final preparations were made, Ishki set a grueling pace toward the capital.
Chapter 15: Racing Back to the Capital (2)
Chapter 15: Racing Back to the Capital (2)
There was no way to tell for sure if the Abhorrent woman was still interested in them, but Captain Ishki traveled under the assumption that she was.
The atmosphere was tense throughout the morning. There was little conversation. No singing. All the soldiers wore full armor and kept their weapons ready. There were no further reserves of golden henbane.
Around the lunch hour, they spotted a vige. Captain Ishki called for a short rest, and at the same time, sent Sergeant Tamharu into the town to see if he could send a message ahead of them. He came back thirty minutester to report that it wasnt possible.
Local constables dont have any fast horses, he reported. No reports of anything strange going on in these parts. Though they said travelers brought rumors of trouble in the capital.
When was that? Captain Ishki asked.
Yesterday. The travelers who brought the gossip left north early in the morning, so no way to question them.
Captain Ishki frowned. Once we get past Asnu Gorge, well have plenty of chances to send a messenger ahead to the capital.
After lunch, the atmosphere lightened a bit, as they left behind the horror of the hilltop battle. By dinner, the soldiers even managed some singing.
Just after dawn, Captain Ishki led the morning prayer, asking the Pontifarch for guidance and protection. There was more singing on the road. Things almost seemed like theyd gone back to normal, at least as the traveling was concerned.
I guess the worst is over, Xerxes thought. But then he started thinking about the monstrous creature theyd fought. And as his mind wandered, something urred to him. Looking over at Gandash and Bel, who were riding next to him, he said, What do you think she wants? Or wanted, I guess.
Gandash shook his head. I wish I knew. I can summon the things, and control the ones I summon. And Buhhu mages do have a lot of information about the Abhorrent. But I dont remember hearing of any kind that looks like that.
Ive been thinking about it, Xerk, said Bel. Do you remember what she said when we first saw her?
Not really, he answered. Hernguage is weird. I mean, the mere sound of it makes my breath catch in my throat.
She shuddered. Me too. But Im pretty sure I heard her say the word mm. More than once.
Hmm. Xerxes thought about it for a bit. You might be right. What do you think it means?
What if she said, then trailed off and bit her lip.
What if what? Gandash asked softly.
What if shes after us?
Us? Xerxes said. You mean the three of us?
Yeah. What if she senses the mm in our chambers of energy? What if thats what she wants?
Xerxes thought back to the frenzy of the initial battle, and midnight fight, and he realized it was definitely positive. A chill ran down his spine.
Should we tell Captain Ishki? Gandash asked.
Xerxes was hesitant given it was just a random theory, but knew that they couldnt keep such an important detail from the captain. Ill do it, he said.
He rode further up the line to where the captain and Sergeant Tamharu were.
Captain? he said.
Yes, Seer?
We have an idea.
The captain didnt seem convinced. However, the mere possibility that the monster was targeting mages was something she didnt want to take lightly, so she changed the marching order. She didnt exin the reason to the soldiers, who by this point were returning to high spirits.
But now that Xerxes was thinking about a monster out there looking for mages, he kept his eyes on the horizon. On the shadows beneath trees. On the spaces between boulders, and where hills rose and ebbed.
He was convinced that, at some point, a sh of movement would appear.
What if it ran right toward him? He didnt have the thick armor worn by the heavy infantry. There was almost nothing to stop those undting fingers from stabbing into his soft parts. He had a sword, and he had Singr Lethality, but neither would be particrly useful in the circumstances.
About a quarter league from Asnu Gorge, Xerxes actually did spot movement some distance from the road. His heart jumped into his throat until he realized it was only a deer.
You''re being too jumpy, he chided himself.
Eventually, they reached the gorge. It was a steep valley that formed one of the primary borders of the true interior of Isin. Once past it, farnds, viges, and towns were everywhere, such that it was virtually impossible to travel for an hour without seeing signs of civilization.
The bridge was made of stone, and had a single arch. And it was rtively narrow. Based on what Xerxes had heard the soldiers saying, the thing was old enough that it predated Isin. Wind rushed through the gorge, making it seem vastly colder than it really was. Everyone wrapped cloaks around their shoulders as they started across. Looking over the side, it was possible to see the rocky floor of the valley.
Squad Three led the way, with Sergeant Nozar in the front. After them came Captain Ishki, the prisoners, and the mages. Squad Two, the light infantry, followed. Bringing up the rear was Sergeant Tamharu and the three surviving members of Squad One.
Xerxes remembered his awe upon crossing this bridge weeks ago. The idea of leaving the crowded interior of Isin and entering the wildernds beyond had filled him with a sense of adventure. Now, he was just d to be returning alive.
Halfway across the bridge, Xerxes sniffed something noxious, but by that time, it was toote.
The Abhorrent woman had been lying in wait in the shadowy recesses under the bridge. Whipping white fingers killed three members of Squad Two before anyone realized what was happening. Pale spidery legs clicked on the stone as she crawled out, unleashing death with impunity.
The soldiers reacted quickly. The archers retreated while Tamharu led his soldiers forward.
Free me so I can fight! shrieked Ligish.
Im going in, Bel said.
No, Ishki said. Bel, Gandash, back up. Squad Three, form a line.
Xerxes felt nearly overwhelmed with terror. However, his horse seemed even more frightened, as it reared, throwing him before bounding away, taking his sword with it. Hended t on his back on the mossy stone surface of the bridge. The wind wasnt knocked out of him, but it sure hurt.
As he scrambled to his feet, he saw the Abhorrent grab a soldier and throw him screaming off the bridge. Then she turned and looked at him. Before, shed had a face and breasts like a marble statue. Now, her features were marred by the blow from his fist, from poison arrows, and from the noxious slime of the spawn Gandash had summoned.
Grk baya mm, she said, lips parting to reveal her sharp teeth.
He crawled to his feet and reached for hisponent pouch.
One of Tamharus Squad One swordsmen tried to sh at her legs, but she batted him away. He mmed into the side of the bridge so hard Xerxes heard the cracking sound as his neck broke.
Captain, they need my help! Bel said. I can
No, and thats an order!
The Abhorrent began moving toward Xerxes.
His nose red. At the same time, he grabbed some crabnickel powder and started drawing the Asgagu Isten rune.
The Abhorrent said something else in her weirdnguage, then lifted a hand.
Xerxes finished drawing the rune, and felt the rush of energy through him. Mm surged to his hand, and light shone as his hand became a living weapon.
Bring it on, he growled, settling into a fighting stance.
The Abhorrent womans fingers shot out. Xerxes dodged them easily. Too easily. That was when he realized her attack was a feint.
Looking to the left, he saw that her fingers had arced over the heads of Squad Three and were closing in on Gandash. Two white, hose-like appendages pierced his thigh and side, while others wrapped around his neck and leg.
All Gandash managed was a choked yelp as he was dragged off his horse and toward the monstrous woman.
Chapter 16: Queasiness (1)
Chapter 16: Queasiness (1)
As he was dragged forward, Gandash plowed into the line of soldiers from Squad Three, knocking one of them t on his back, and sending another stumbling to the side.
Seeing Gandash being pulled across the stone, Xerxes lunged forward and wrapped his free arm around his friends leg. That stopped Gandashs momentum for a moment, but then both of them inched toward the woman as she slowly but surely dragged them toward her.
Arrows flew, smacking into the Abhorrent. Xerxes barely made out spears being thrust in her direction.
She snarled, released Gandash, and used her whipping fingers to engage with the soldiers harrying her.
Get up, Xerxes said, helping his friend to stand. Before Gandash was all the way up, Xerxes grabbed his shoulder and pulled him back. And get back.
He stepped around his friend, keeping his burning hand clenched into a fist.
Im not leaving you alone, Gandash said.
Gan, get back here, Bel said from further behind.
The Abhorrent woman threw a dead soldier off the bridge, then ripped a spear from the hands of another, spun, and hurled it at the mages.
Xerxes reacted on instinct, and his Asgagu-enhanced hand knocked the weapon out of the air, partially melting the spearhead in the process. You dont have enough mm to cast, Gandy. Get out of here!
His friend backed away.
ring at the monster, Xerxes shouted, You want a mage? You got one!
Trying to stoke his anger hot enough to banish the fear that lurked in every corner of his body, he kept his hands up to protect his head and inched forward. On either side of him, Squad Three soldiers stepped up to include him in their line. Behind the Abhorrent, Sergeant Tamharu had his shield up and sword extended as he tried to sneak closer.
Gotta keep her upied, Xerxes thought.
Rubbery white fingers shot toward him, but he was ready. He dodged each and every one of them, and then snapped his hand out and severed one of them. Gluey fluid dropped onto the toe of his boot.
Tamharu lunged, swung his sword, and severed three spidery legs. The Abhorrent roared, spun, and used her fingers like a whip to il the sergeant. He had his shield up, though, and he kept his knees bent, allowing him to weather the attack.
Xerxes took that opportunity to take a deep breath and start running forward.
He wanted to scream a battlecry, but instead bit his tongue, clenched his hand into a fist, and put all the power he could muster into a single punch.
His scorching fist mmed into the monstrous womans side. Flesh melted and burned, and his hand prated deep into her abdomen. The scream that erupted from her mouth nearly deafened him. He felt pain as a finger stabbed into his side. Another wrapped around his wrist and ankle. However, shed grabbed the wrong wrist. He shoved his fist further inside her, trying to push it toward where he assumed her heart was.
He felt his feet go out from under him, and before he knew what was happening, he was flying through the air. Shed thrown him.
He saw the bridge parapet nearing and knew he was going to fly over it. He iled his arms and legs.
By chance, he snagged a rough chunk of stone, halting his momentum. The rest of his body thumped painfully against the stone as his legs dangled over nothing. He buried his burning hand in the stone, then heaved himself back onto the bridge.
He looked up. The Abhorrent was trying to disengage from Tamharu and some other soldiers, but they were giving her a hard time.
Singr Lethality faded away, which meant that if he wanted to keep fighting, he would have to cast it again. Maybe it was stupid, and maybe he would die, but he didnt care. He was going to destroy this monster.
Back on his feet, he walked forward and simultaneously cast the spell again. His hand red with lethal light as he closed in. The Abhorrents back was to him, so he ducked forward and used a knifehand strike, managing to sever some spidery legs. Unlike her fingers, they didnt regenerate, and yet, no matter how many legs got chopped off, she always seemed to have plenty to spare. But that was all. Fingers stabbed into him again, and he dropped to one knee. His neck was injured, and other ces too. Arm? Side? Blood was pouring out. He iled his hand but hit nothing.
Master Ligish came out of nowhere, smashing into the Abhorrent like a force of nature. His hands moved faster than seemed humanly possible, blocking her writhing fingers while simultaneously striking her rapidly with fists and palms.
The Abhorrent woman stumbled away from him.
That was when Xerxes felt himself being tugged across the bridge. He rolled his eyes up to see Gandash pulling him.
I got you, Xerk, he said.
Gandy, what are you doing? Youre supposed to be
Youre bleeding! BEL!
Gandash dragged him a bit further down the bridge. On his back, Xerxes couldnt see the fighting, but he could hear it. Ligish and Tamharu were coordinating to try to take down the monster.
Bel leaned over him and cast a spell. When she touched his chest, mm swirled into him. He gasped at the heat, and the odd sensation of flesh and muscle reconnecting. In a matter of seconds, he was whole again.
He sat up. Wheres my sword?
Ligish and Tamharu had the Abhorrent pinned down, but he wasnt going to assume they could deal with the creature alone.
Here, Seer Xerxes, Captain Ishki said. She handed him his weapon. I want you and the other mages to get out of here.
Were not going to leave you, Captain, Gandash said.
Dammit, Seer Gand she said, but a scream cut her off.
They all looked over to see that Ligish had been stabbed in the side.
Chapter 16: Queasiness (2)
Chapter 16: Queasiness (2)
Ligish easily ripped the fingers out of him, then leaped several paces backward. He looked over his shoulder. Im not dying for you people.
He stepped further away from the creature.
Ligish, you bastard! Captain Ishki said, You promised
He took a running leap off the bridge andnded on the opposite mountainside. A momentter, he was gone in the trees.
Fucker, Ishki said.
The Abhorrents feet made clicking sounds as she started stalking toward them. She must have lost ten legs, but she had plenty more. Arrows stuck out of her. She bled noxious blood from cuts and scrapes. Her side was mangled. But she was stilling.
Captain Ishki drew her bronze sword and stood forward. Mages, get out of here! she said.
Xerxes climbed to his feet and held his longsword out in front of him. Shes right. We need
The Abhorrents flicking fingers knocked Ishki to the ground and sent her skidding to the side.
Grk baya mm, the woman said through maroon lips.
Xerxes lunged forward and swung his sword. He hit nothing but air.
The pale fingersshed out, and this time Bel was the victim. She choked, having been hit through the throat and arm.
NO! Gandash yelled. Grabbing Bels arm, which was already red with blood, he tried to tug her free of the creatures grasp, but failed. Behind the monster, Tamharu and some of the few surviving soldiers hung back, clearly unsure of what to do.
Xerxes edged forward. Youre not going anywhere, monster, he said. You cant just jump off the bridge. Not even you.
The woman said something iprehensible, and before anyone could do anything further, she pulled Bel off her feet. Gandash tried to keep ahold of the healer, but the slickness of the blood made it impossible. Bel jerked out of his grasp and flew up to the woman, who drove razor-sharp teeth deep into her neck.
Bel couldnt even scream. She just wheezed.
Tamharu had apparently switched weapons. He had a spear, and as Xerxes talked, he took a step forward and threw it like a javelin. The Abhorrent knocked it out of the air, but that was all the distraction Xerxes needed. He bounded forward with all the speed a Seer was capable of. Throwing his sword up, heshed out toward the pale, rope-like fingers that held Bel. He got three of the five. Then his sword continued on into the body of the monstrous Abhorrent.
The de bit deep, hitting in the mangled area hed damaged earlier with Singr Lethality.
The Abhorrent woman removed her fangs from Bel and gurgled angrily as she scratched at Xerxes with the sharp tips of her legs. He ignored any pain and shoved the de in deeper, then twisted it and wrenched it to the side.
The force of a Seers strength made the difference, and the de erupted into the open, causing ckish-red entrails to flip and flop along with the spray of blood. At the same time, Tamharu came from the side, yet another spear in his hand. He stabbed her, shoving her so hard in the process that she slipped backward. Then her legs caught on the bridge parapet. Bel jerked in her grasp like a rag doll.
Bel! Gandash screamed and he jumped toward her. Xerxes dropped his sword and jumped after Gandash.
But it was toote.
Bel and the Abhorrent both toppled off the bridge.
Screaming, Gandash rushed to the parapet and looked over. Xerxes joined him.
What he saw at the bottom of the bridge, thirty or forty cubits down, among the jaggedndscape of rocks, caused a deep queasiness to erupt in his stomach that swept through him so quickly he couldnt control it. Jerking to the side, he dropped to his knees and vomited, spasming so hard tears leaked out of his eyes. Even after it was over, the tears kept flowing.
He vaguely heard his friend shouting something.
Then Sergeant Tamharu was there, his hands on Gandashs shoulders.
We have to go down! Gandash yelled. Shes down there!
Shes gone, Tamharu said.
NO! THERE ARE RESURRECTION SPELLS!
Xerxes remained slumped on the stone of the bridge. Distant starisles had mages who could resurrect the dead. But not a tiny ce like Mannemid.
Gandash was in hysterics, but Tamharu seemed to have control of him.
A momentter, Xerxes realized Captain Ishki was kneeling next to him. Seer? she said, putting a hand on his shoulder.
He wiped vomit from his lips with the back of one hand, then dried his cheeks with the other. Captain.
Its over. Are you hurt?
He shook his head.
Good. Why dont you sit down against the parapet.
She helped him to move over to the side of the bridge, where he leaned against the cool stone and looked up into the bitter, gray sky.
Things went into a blur after that. He didnt register much of what the surviving soldiers did. Time passed. Maybe a few minutes or maybe an hour or two.
At some point he realized he was on his horse again, not really sure how he got there. They were traveling again.
Xerxes looked around and saw Gandash on horseback next to Sergeant Tamharu. Neither were talking. In fact, nobody in the convoy was talking.
He found himself counting. One, he murmured under his breath. Two, three eight, nine.
Excluding the prisoners, as well as Gandash and himself, there were twelve soldiers, plus Captain Ishki. She had led thirty from the capital, and was returning with hardly more than a third of that number. And of the survivors, many were bandaged heavily. Without Bel present, that was obviously Aniskipels handiwork.
Of the officers, Tamharu and Aniskipel had survived. But Sergeant Nozar of Squad Three hadnt.
Xerxes felt empty.
Hey, Xerk, he heard Bel say, and he jerked his head around. She wasnt there. It was his mind ying tricks on him. Tears rolled down his cheeks again, but he wiped them away.
Then he looked over at Gandash again, and the empty feeling inside him grew, joined momentster by that roiling queasiness.
Chapter 17: Unrest in the Capital (1)
Chapter 17: Unrest in the Capital (1)
Xerxes didnt pay attention as they made camp that night. He knew he should meditate, or study the Asgagu Sebum rune. But there was no way he could calm himself enough for either activity.
As hey out his bedroll, he noticed someone had cleaned his sword for him. He suddenly wondered where all the bodies were.
Left em behind, Aniskipel exined. Captain said shed go backter.
What about Bel? Xerxes asked numbly. And the Abhorrent?
Lowered some tarps weighted with rocks to cover them.
Now Xerxes started thinking about what the animals would do to Bels body. It made him so sick he couldnt stop tossing and turning. He was tired of sleeping on a bedroll. He wanted to be back home in the capital. To have dinner with his parents and sister, then snuggle in a nket while wind whistled across the paving stones of the city streets.
Eventually, he fell into a dreamless sleep.
The next morning when he woke, he realized their convoy was sharing a roadside campground with some other travelers. It looked like a group of families, traveling with mules and a wagon.
Xerxes stared at them without realizing what he was doing, until one soldier said, Come eat.
It was Shiram from Squad Two, who made a nice spicy porridge. Everyone was circled around, including Captain Ishki and the sergeants, but not Gandash, whoy in his bedroll unmoving.
Xerxes reached over and touched his friends shoulder gently. Foods ready, he said quietly, expecting Gandash to still be sleeping.
Instead, Gandash replied, Im good.
He sounded perfectly awake. Xerxes suppressed the urge to press him to eat, and instead just said, Gotcha.
He quickly did his morning prayer, then headed over to the campfire. There, the soldiers ate Shirams porridge and chatted in low tones.
I talked to one of them when I went down to get some water, Shiram was saying.
Them campers? asked Jarad from Squad Three.
Yeah. Theyre from the capital. Said things arent looking too ot there.
Captain Ishki looked up. How, exactly?
Shiram looked uncertain. Sorry, Captain, I didnt press for detail. E just said they thought it best to leave before things got really bad, as e said.
Ishki looked at Tamharu, and he looked back at her.
Captain, shall I? Tamharu said.
She nodded.
He quickly finished his breakfast, then walked casually over to the other campers and started making conversation.
A few minutester, he returned. Sitting, he kept his voice low and said, Thereve been incidents in the capital, he said. Rumors of riots. Murders. That sort of thing. But nobody seems to know whats actually going on. Those folks he gestured across the campground with his thumb are convinced its the Cult of the Eternal Father.
The Eternal Father cult? said Sergeant Aniskipel. Theyre more active in the capital than people believe.
You have experience with them? Captain Ishki asked.
Yep, Aniskipel said with a click of his tongue. In my younger days, I was assigned to Igh Seer Ninsunu, although that was back before she was an Igh Seer. Remember that fellow from Fal she arrested?
Hilum, Xerxes said, remembering the story told by Gandash a few days before.
Yeah, that one, Aniskipel said. Well, e was deep in the cult. Course that was before my time. But even yearster, Igh Seer Ninsunu was still trying to track down leads from Fal, and I was there. Arrested quite a few, and killed more than one or two.
The soldierspsed into silence.
When Captain Ishki finished her meal, she got to her feet. It doesnt bode well. An Abhorrent shows up, maybe more than one? Then Eternal Father Cult activity in the capital? She frowned. Lets get going. I want to make good time today.
And they did.
Signs of civilization grew more and more prevalent, and as the terrain and climate changed, Xerxes suddenly realized how much he wanted to be home. His thirst for adventure had been sated, and in fact, he now had no desire for anything even resembling adventure.
Worse, the thought of Abhorrent in the capital made him think about all his friends and family there. His father, mother, and sister. The disciples he trained swords with. The mages who had taught and tutored him. Were they in danger?
He rode next to Gandash now. It was hard to determine what was going on with his friend. He didnt slump in the saddle like he had immediately following the incident at the bridge. But his gaze was vacant. He hardly spoke more than a word or two in response to most questions.
When they took a short break halfway to lunch, Tamharu pulled Xerxes aside and suggested to give Gandash space.
He took the advice. He rode next to him, asionally offered a few words here and there, but did little else. At lunch, Gandash ate, so that was good.
Traffic began to get heavier the further they got into the interior of the kingdom. However, it didnt take long for them to realize that virtually all of it was headed in the opposite direction as them.
Inquiries were made, and it became more clear than ever that there was unrest of some sort in the capital. Tamharu was usually the one who dug for information, and each time he came back with different stories and opinions.
I keep hearing about riots, he said. But no clear exnation why there are riots. I heard an inn copsed with everyone inside it. Someone ims a killer stalks the streets. Its impossible to tell whats real and whats made up.
Any further mention of cultists? Ishki asked.
Yeah.
I dont like it.
Me either. Theres one thing for certain: more and more people are leaving.
That night, they camped outside of town in an area with at least eight other traveling groups.
Before, Captain Ishki had been worried that questions might be asked about the load they bore. But nobody asked, or even seemed to care. The talk in the camp was all about the activity in the capital.
Captain, mind if I stretch my legs? Xerxes asked after dinner.
Go ahead. But stick close and keep your mouth shut about everything, understood?
Understood.
Chapter 17: Unrest in the Capital (2)
Chapter 17: Unrest in the Capital (2)
Leaving his sword by his bedroll, but taking hisponent pouch, he strolled around the camp. In doing so, he heard with his own ears what Tamharu had been reporting. Everybody had their own story.
... entire ousehold killed, he heard a grizzled old man say. Terrible stuff, I tell you. Completely orrible. I saw with my own eyes. Eads ripped off. Blood everywhere.
But there seemed to be plenty of skeptics, too.
Theres nothing nefarious going on at all. Its the wainwrights, I tell you. Wagons are selling out everywhere. Theyre spreading rumors to make money, thats all.
Them and the shipwrights.
Maybe, but better safe than sorry, eh?
True. And thats why Im eading out for business now instead of next month.
After circling around the camp, he heard at least six different rumors about what was happening. Back at the convoy, he found Gandashying on his back on his bedroll, staring up at the stars.
Xerxes sat on his own bedroll.
Theyre gone, Gandash said.
Xerxes looked over. What was that?
Theres no more meteors, Gandash said. Not a single one.
Xerxes stared up into the sky. Is that so? I havent been looking.
Hey down, put his hands behind his head, and gazed at the glittering tableau.
Ive been watching, Gandash continued. There havent been any.
I suppose thats a good thing.
Theyy there in silence for a few minutes.
Gandy?
Yeah?
Xerxes opened his mouth to talk, but suddenly his throat tightened, and his chest grew heavy. I.
Were Gandash began, then coughed a bit. Were going to pull through this.
Xerxes exhaled slowly. I know. I just want to go home.
Me too.
As they neared the capital, the upsurge in travelers turned into an outright stream, and then a flood.
Soon enough, the rumors began to solidify. People had been killed in the capital, and everyone was scared. The Mage Parliament had made announcements and promations asking for calm, but they only seemed to have the opposite effect.
On the night before their final day of travel, they finally heard the talk they had all been expecting to hear, yet hoping not to.
Monsters had been spotted in the city. Again, there were no specific details. But there was no question about it. The Mage Parliament had ordered a curfew and a lockdown. Soldiers patrolled the streets. Mages had been seen out and about, asking questions, and investigating ces where incidents had urred.
Xerxes had a hard time reading the mood of the soldiers. They seemed pensive, but at the same time, eager to be off the road.
On the final day, Captain Ishki pressed them to move as quickly as possible on the crowded roads. On more than one asion, traffic jams forced them to halt. A cart overturned. An injured pack animal. An altercation between traveling parties.
Captain Ishki never hesitated to wade in, bark orders, and get people moving again.
Instead of stopping for dinner, they ate while moving, and by the time the city walls came into view, it was already early evening.
Captain Ishki had made it clear that they were going to stay together as a convoy until they reached the keep. Of the surviving soldiers, the majority were Isinian, and virtually all of them had friends and family in the city. But the captain said their priority was to report to the Parliament, not only to exin what happened on the mission, but also to see what new orders might be pending given the circumstances. All Xerxes knew was that he couldnt wait to get back. To the familiar streets. The hustle and bustle of city life. To home.
When they arrived at the gates, there was no line going inside. There were still guards present, but all of them were preupied with facilitating an orderly exit rather than the normal measures taken to monitor entry. By-the-book Captain Ishki had all the papers, insignias, and other items ready before they approached the gate. All it took was a strongly-worded order to get a guard to tend to them. The formalities were handled quickly. Almost too quickly if the captains muttered curses were any indication of her assessment of the guards attention to detail. Regardless, they were in the city proper within minutes.
As soon as they were making their way through the streets, Xerxes previous anticipation turned sour. Everything felt wrong. The capital was supposed to be a bustling, crowded ce filled with a mishmash of unique sounds and sights. But right now, everything seemed depressingly empty and quiet.
There were still people present and shops were open. But customers and pedestrians all seemed to be in a hurry to get somewhere else, and those with nowhere to go looked around with hooded eyes and pursed lips.
Damn, Gandash said quietly. This is weird.
Youre telling me, Xerxes replied.
They made their way through familiar streets until they were at the keep in the center of the city.
The Mage Parliament didnt have a physical location that served as a permanent headquarters. It rotated between the capital cities of the three major kingdoms on a triennial basis. For the past two years, that headquarters had been here in Isin.
There were more formalities at the entrance to the keep. Once inside the main gate, the wagon with the illegal machinery was taken to a warehouse set aside for Parliamentary use. The privatestwo from Squad One, three from Squad Two, and five from Squad Threewere dismissed for the time being.
That left Captain Ishki, Sergeants Tamharu and Aniskipel, and Xerxes and Gandash. Word had been left at the gate for them to immediately head to the main council chamber upon their return. There was no need for an escort, as Captain Ishki knew the way. She led them through the keep at a near trot.
Minutester, they entered the chamber, which had a vaulted ceiling and an oblong table in the middle,den with a plethora of books, scrolls, maps, and the like. Open windows let in outside air and light, and there were even doors leading out to what was surely a balcony, though they were closed. There were alsomps providing light.
Seven pairs of eyes turned in their direction as they entered.
Xerxes heart leapt into his throat. His father, Ataneedusu, stood among the gathered mages. He wanted to run over and throw himself into his fathers arms, but he held back, instead struggling to mask a grin as he nodded. His father nodded back. Many said that Xerxes resembled his father; they had the same eyes, the same smile, and the same prominent nose. The main difference was his fathers spectacrly styled beard. Xerxes still didnt have sufficient facial hair for anything so impressive.
Standing next to Xerxes father was Gandashs father, Dumamu. His beard was simrly styled to Ataneedusus, except it had small jewels braided into it. What was more, Dumamu wore a robe of much finer cloth, and had numerous bits of jewelry elsewhere on him. The difference between him and Xerxes father was obvious to anyone with eyes.
Also present at the table was Mystic Aban Saddi, who was the Head Mage and also the strongest master of arcane arts on the. His well-oiled mustache was unusual for a man of Isin, but rumor had it his mother was a foreigner. He wore robes as fine as Dumamus, but instead of the characteristic white, cylindrical hat worn by most mages, he wore a turban of blue cloth. Aban Saddi was one of the only other Buhhu mages on Mannemid, and had tutored Gandash on more than one asion.
High Seers Ninsunu and Shemesh were present.
Ninsunu, whose name had so recently been mentioned in stories while traveling, studied the Sinitu order, which made her capable of physical transformations, both of herself and others. She was over a hundred and twenty years old, but looked middle-aged. She had dark hair and an aquiline nose, and wore adornments of gold and silver that made her look almost like a noble.
Shemesh specialized in the order of Hasasu, with spells that made him capable of sensing the thoughts and feelings of others, and also giving him the ability to read omens in the stars. This was the same order of magic that Gandashs father studied, although Dumamu was an ordinary Seer, not a High Seer.
Also present was Alwin, who was only a few years older than Gandash and Xerxes. He studied the Nasaru order, that of defense and protection. As one of the newer Seers, he had originally been assigned to go on the mission to Ligish Castle, but had fallen ill at thest minute, and was reced by Bel. It only now urred to Xerxes that, if Alwin hadnt gotten sick, Bel might still be alive. He swallowed the bitterness that rose up in his heart when he considered that.
The King Nabuhisnuisin of Isin was present, an old man of noble character who was well-loved by the people, and generally respected by the mages.
As the surviving officers and mages of the convoy entered the council chamber, it was obvious theyd interrupted a heated conversation.
Everyone present went quiet, then Mystic Aban Saddi cleared his throat.
Captain Ishki, your timing couldnt have been better, he said. Or worse.
Note: At this point, all of the major paths of magic have been introduced, some of them in passing. Going forward, I will do my best to make sure their general function is made even more clear. Also, I''m working on a wiki to gather some of this info for easy reference. In the meantime, here is a brief summary of the orders of magic that have been described up to this point:
Nasaru - Defense/Shielding
Asgagu - Combat/Destruction
Btu - Healing
Sinitu - Transformation/Transumation
Hasasu - Mind Reading/Divination
Buhhu - Summoning
Chapter 18: Mage Considerations (1)
Chapter 18: Mage Considerations (1)
As you might have noticed, continued Aban Saddi, things in the city are not well. But before we get into that, do you have anything relevant to report?
A lot, Captain Ishki replied.
Xerxes expected the assembled mages to utter exmations of shock when they heard about the illegal machinery, the subsequent escape of the mastermind, the Abhorrent, and the deaths of Bel and the dozens of soldiers.
The reaction was much more subdued.
Dumamu and Ataneedusu closed their eyes.
High Seer Ninsunu cocked an eyebrow and Shemesh frowned.
Mystic Aban Saddis eyes turned somewhat colder.
It was only Alwin, the youngest mage besides Xerxes and Gandash, who reacted with barely masked horror, his face turning pale before he sat down heavily in the chair behind him, muttering to himself.
It was King Nabuhisnuisin who broke the silence. Im sorry to hear of the loss of Seer Bel. Its a true tragedy.
Its indeed a tragedy, said Semesh. And Seer Fale is going to be furious, as will all of the mages from Od. But unfortunately, it only goes to reinforce my previous point.
It does not reinforce your point, Ninsunu said. There is no clear-cut evidence proving the Abhorrent are hunting mages specifically. The vast majority of the victims have been Unsighted.
Semeshs cheek twitched. What do you want, a written missive exining their motives? Seer Athric is dead, Ninsunu. And now Seer Bel is gone. What more will it take before
Enough arguing, interrupted Aban Saddi. I dont disagree with you, Shem. I think its entirely within the realm of possibility that the Abhorrent are searching for mages. However, fleeing the capital isnt the answer. The fact remains that, as Nina has repeatedly stated, the Unsighted citizens of this city are in danger. We can never forget that the people of this are the responsibility of the Mage Parliament. Theyre our responsibility. Were charged with keeping them safe.
Semesh shook his head slightly but didnt say anything in response.
I knew it, Xerxes thought. The Abhorrent are here.
His eyes shed back and forth between the various mages present as he tried to determine what political elements might be at y. Ninsunu and Shemesh were butting heads as usual, and Mystic Aban Saddi hadnt picked a side yet. Xerxes father owed his career to Gandashs father, and almost always followed his lead. So which side was Dumamu on?
Xerxes looked at him, but the mans expression was unreadable.
The silence in the council room continued for a short time, until High Seer Ninsunu said, Aban Saddi, sir, you obviously agree with me that
I never said anything of the sort! Aban Saddi snapped. Were facing a crisis right now, but Im not convinced we mages are in imminent danger. Its not the time for political maneuvering, so please hold back from your usual posturing. He looked at Shemesh. Im sorry, Shem, but I just dont see the evidence. I know youre convinced, but Im not making a decision based on intuition.
I fear youre going to regret it, Aban, he said softly.
I hope not. For now, our primary responsibility is to themon people. We need to find the Abhorrent and eliminate them. And now we have an advantage. He looked pointedly at the neers. Veterans.
Mystic, Dumamu protested, ncing at Gandash. Surely you dont mean
Aban Saddi raised his hand, and Gandashs father stopped talking.
I do mean that, Aban Saddi said. Like it or not, your son now has more experience in dealing with the Abhorrent than anyone else on this. As for you, Seer Ataneedusu, we all know your son has devoted more time to training than you. Its nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, you should be proud to be the father of such apetent warrior.
Xerxes felt a bit awkward to hear such words spoken aloud, but they were true. His father had never been able to live up to his potential as a mage, and everyone knew it.
Aban Saddi didnt let either father say anything further. Seer Xerxes, Seer Gandash, are you physically rested and mentally prepared enough to immediately ept a new mission?
Yes, sir, Gandash said almost immediately.
Xerxes hesitated. On the way back to the capital, hed dreamed of reuniting with his family. Hed envisioned having a nice meal with them, hugging his little sister and mother, and then resting in his own bed. Now he was being asked to immediately go out into danger again?
However, there was no way he would let Gandash one-up him. How was he ever going to earn the respect of the higher-level mages if he didnt ept every mission possible?
As all eyes in the room shifted to focus on him, he tried to stand a bit straighter and said, Of course, Mystic. Im ready.
Sounding almost pleading, his father, Ataneedusu said, Sir, theyre teenagers. They dont
Aban Saddis tone was hard as he interrupted, Ive already made my decision. Captain Ishki, youre dismissed along with your officers. You did well considering the circumstances, and have earned a short respite. Tomorrow, I want you to coordinate with Colonel Nur-Ayya regarding this Master Ligish. We need to track him down after the Abhorrent business is taken care of.
The captain saluted, as did Tamharu and Aniskipel, and they left as a group.
Now, Aban Saddi continued, Im forming a new task force. Nina, youll take Seer Xerxes and Seer Satahsusar to Harborview to track down the cultists you mentioned. Take ten soldiers with you. You pick them. If its as you say and the cultists are involved in calling the Abhorrent here, then we cant afford to simply let them be.
An operation like that would normally take weeks, Ninsunu pointed out.
And obviously we dont have weeks. So take extreme measures. Use violence if necessary.
Ill need Marshal Authority.
Aban Saddi looked at the King. Your Majesty?
You have the authority, Nina, King Nabuhisnuisin said. I trust you. We need this crisis solved as soon as possible. Ill have the paperwork drawn upter.
Ninsunu swept away from the table. In that case, Ill go retrieve Satahsusar. Shes not going to be happy being forced back onto the streets so soon, but I guess we all need to make sacrifices. Seer Xerxes, youe with me.
Yes, maam. He looked at his father, exchanged a curt nod with him, then leaned toward Gandash and quietly said, Good luck, Gandy.
Good luck, Xerk. See you when I see you.
Xerxes followed Ninsunu out into the corridor, where she set a rapid clip away from the council chamber, forcing him to trot after her.
Chapter 18: Mage Considerations (2)
Chapter 18: Mage Considerations (2)
After rounding the first turn in the corridor, Ninsunu said, Im sorry for your loss, Xerk. You were close with Bel, no?
Thank you, High Seer Ninsu
Call me Nina. Youve done more than enough to prove yourself by now.
Oh. His chest swelled. Well Nina, yes, I was close with Bel. Although um, er.
She turned to look at him. Well?
She and Gandash were a lot closer. They were a couple.
Is that so?
Yeah. Im worried hes taking it even worse than me.
Good to know. A loss like that can be truly devastating. She led him into arge open chamber that he wasnt familiar with. It looked like some sort of temple. Their footsteps echoed on the smooth tile floor as they crossed it. Ill check on himter on, once all of this is over.
So you think its going to be over soon?
At the other side of the temple chamber, they entered another corridor. I hope so. Now, tell me more about the Abhorrent. Not the summoned ones.
Xerxes gulped and went on to describe everything he remembered about the vile monster.
When he mentioned the way the creature talked, Ninsunu said, Youre certain it said the word mm?
He paused before answering. Im not absolutely certain, he said. But I think so.
Interesting, she said. Im surprised you were able to make out that word clearly.
Youve heard them talk before?
I never said that.
Oh. Feeling slightly foolish, he mped his mouth shut.
They left the main part of the keep and started crossing a courtyard. Up above, the sky was beginning to darken in the east.
Now, the silence between them was making things even more awkward, so he cleared his throat. Maam, what exactly is this mission of ours?
Ill exin in a moment once Satahsusar is with us.
Right.
Their conversation ceased at that point. They walked for about three more minutes, leaving the keep itself and crossing the street to a squat building with no exterior markings to indicate its function.
That was where they received Seer Satahsusar. Though he had heard her name spoken many times, hed never actually seen her. It was quite a surprise. If he hadnt known better, he would never have guessed that she was actually older than Ninsunu, by nearly a century at that. Unlike Ninsunu, who looked middle-aged, Satahsusar hardly looked more than twenty. She wore her dark hair in three long braids that hung down her back, and had a circlet of gold with a serpent-shaped diadem at her forehead.
Apparently, Satahsusar had been injured a few days ago, and was in convalescence. She didnt seem happy to be assigned a mission.
I need your mind, Sata, said Ninsunu.
Im not the only Hasasu mage around, Satahsusar grumbled, folding her arms and looking out the window. Cant you get someone else?
Xerxes immediately disliked the way she literally turned her nose up at Ninsunu. Here he was, exhausted and still struggling with the loss of a dear friend, and he hadnt balked at a new assignment. What right did she have to act so high and mighty?
I dont trust Shemesh. And Dumamucks experience outside the court. Besides, Aban is the one who gave the order, so stop stalling. Times limited.
Ninsunu arranged for a carriage to take them to the barracks, where she asked for a sergeant she knew. Once they had ten soldiers to escort them, they made their way across the city to Harborview.
As the name indicated, it overlooked the citys sizable harbor. However, though the name sounded picturesque, the ce was anything but. It was a squalid, shadowy ce with numerous winding alleyways and decrepit buildings that honest folk generally avoided. That said, Xerxes was more than a bit familiar with it, and was curious why they were heading to that specific location.
As soon as the cart started rocking back and forth, Ninsunu said, Alright, we have a few minutes, so Im going to exin whats happening here. Mostly for your benefit, Xerk.
Were dealing with an Abhorrent invasion, that much is certain. Or at least an incursion. Which is why I keep telling Aban we need to simply hole up in the keep and close all the gates. I think if we did that, we could weather the storm. But Im not in charge. In any case, Xerk, have you heard about the Cult of the Eternal Father?
A bit. But I dont think we get formal instruction about them until next year.
I see. In that case, why dont you tell me what you do know, so I dont waste any words?
He grinned wryly. Truth be told, I dont know much beyond the fact that theyre bad? Maybe they have something to do with illegal machinery?
Not quite.
Off to the side, Satahsusar covered her mouth with her hand as if to prevent herself fromughing, while simultaneously making sure he heard herugh.
Sorry, he said, flushing.
ring briefly at Satahsusar, Ninsunu said, I didnt mean it that way. Theres no need to be embarrassed not knowing about the cult. Its not as though anybody takes them seriously other than me. Well they didnt. Now even Aban seems to realize theyre more than just simpletons and crazy people.
Simply put, the cultists worship the Abhorrent. Of course, the vast majority of them have never even seen an Abhorrent, so Im not sure why the hell theyre so confident in their beliefs. Regardless, here on Mannemid, its been a non-issue for centuries, as only Buhhu mages can summon the things from the Nightmare Cove, and we arent exactly teeming with Buhhu mages. But in higher starisles, its a different story.
Why would they worship the Abhorrent? Xerxes asked.
Good question. Based on my understanding, including interrogating actual cultists, they believe that the Abhorrent are the source of all magic. Perhaps causal origin is a better word. Truth be told, not even Im exactly sure of the specifics of their teachings.
Xerxes shook his head. That makes no sense. Magic is possible because of mm. How could the Abhorrent have anything to do with the existence of mm? Its everywhere. It would be like saying the Abhorrent are responsible for air.
Thats the same question Ive asked cultists in the past. They jabber nonsense in response.
What about the Nergal? Xerxes couldnt help but ask. Doesnt he care about them?
The Pontifarch has other people assigned to deal with the cult. But Mannemid is too small of a ce for such individuals to care about. Due to the fact that the cult doesnt pose any overt threat, weve only given them half-hearted attention. With whats happened in the past few days, though, my suspicions have been aroused. My contacts have mentioned a new cult leader that seized power sometime in the past year or so. A man by the name of Enki. My gut tells me that he has something to do with this invasion.
So. Were going to go into Harborview and ask him directly. I have Marshal Authority from the king, so I dont n to waste time. Well go in quietly and carefully, but were not going to pussyfoot around. Xerk, hows your chamber looking? Not full, I take it?
I cast a few spells during the fighting. And I didnt do very much meditation on the way back. But I have enough mm for plenty more spells.
Okay. Keep yourponent pouch ready and your sword up. If you feel the need to cast a spell, dont hesitate. Just drop your sword and do it. At the same time, keep an ear out for orders from me. If you end up using any crabnickel powder, Ill personally see to it that yourepensated. No need for applications. However, theres one thing to keep in mind. Dont kill Enki. We need him alive.
Around then, the cart trundled to a stop.
Chapter 19: Low Street (1)
Chapter 19: Low Street (1)
Wed probably get better results if we werent dressed as mages, Satahsusar said as she climbed out of the cart. Looking around Harborview, she sniffed as though shed detected a foul odor.
Xerxes dislike of her grew stronger. You think this ce stinks? Try smelling an Abhorrent up close.
Ninsunu cast a sharp nce at him. Seer Xerxes, you might be the same rank as Seer Satahsusar, but in terms of seniority, youre far from being her equal. Please consider that.
He ducked his head. Yes, High Seer.
He looked away from Satahsusar, who was apparently returning the favor. He was hoping to avoid mentioning that hed been born in Harborview. It wasnt a big secret, but neither was itmon knowledge, as his father had moved the family out of the neighborhood before Xerxes reached his teen years.
Though the neighborhood they lived in now was no shantytown, it wasnt a ce that people vied to move into. In fact, his familys current abode would be considered substandard for virtually all Isinian mages. Almost everyone from Gandashs family to Mystic Aban Saddi lived in the hilly Garden Terrace area closer to the keep.
This way, Ninsunu said, leaving orders with the soldiers to stay put until she called for them.
You really want to go into this slum alone? Satahsusar said.
This isnt my first time dealing with cultists, was the answer.
The three mages walked down one of Harborviews crooked main streets, which was so narrow it felt cramped even with the city being in a semi-deserted state. In other ces like Garden Terrace, it would have been considered a servants ess route, not a primary thoroughfare.
The buildings seemed narrow and unusually tall, supposedly because that had been the architectural style when this neighborhood was gleaming and new, centuries ago. On either side of the street were shops selling everything from clothing to fishings. And there was a faint salty-sea aroma that seemed to fill every corner of the ce.
Xerxes remembered bringing Gandash here once, and how much his friend had disliked the ce. Gandash had imagined every scruffy-looking man leaning against an alley wall to be a pickpocket or worse. Of course, there were a lot of criminals here. But that didnt mean everyone was dangerous. Especially if you were streetwise.
As they walked along, Xerxes eyes flitted back and forth taking in the surroundings and noting the individuals present. After proceeding about five minutes down the winding street, hed only spotted one or two people he would peg as potential criminals. They simply watched the mages pass. There was no question that people knew who they were. Though Xerxes was still d in his traveling clothes, Ninsunu and Satahsusar stuck out like parrots at a chicken farm.
They stopped briefly in a small open area formed by the intersection of five streets. In the middle of the square was an old fountain that had ceased functioning years ago and was in the process of crumbling to pieces. Despite the circumstances in the city, there were also a few locals with tarps thrown onto the ground and wares set out on them for sale. Xerxes knew full well that many people in Harborview lived from day to day. In other words, if they didnt make some sales, they wouldnt eat. It didnt matter if there were monsters roaming the streets.
This ce is like a maze, Ninsunu said, half to herself. And there arent any street signs.
What street are you looking for? Xerxes said. Maybe I can help.
You know this area?
He hesitated briefly, sure that Satahsusar would start needling him about his lowborn life once he brought it up. But he didnt want toe across as deceptive. Yeah. I grew up around here.
Oh? Ninsunu said.
He red at Satahsusar, expecting a quip, but she didnt say anything.
By the time his father became Sighted, his mother was already pregnant with baby Xerxes. The following years had been full of hard choices. After all, though Sighted individuals did have a small level of physical superioritypared to Unsighted, until they achieved their first breakthrough and became Seers, they would have to struggle to outperform talented athletes and professional soldiers. And without any spells to cast, they had little else going for them.
Rich families could afford to have children drop everything to focus on magical studies. But a young man struggling to feed a family while living in Harborview couldnt just sit around all day meditating to build a chamber of energy. In fact, his father had only be a Seer a few years before Xerxes himself became Sighted.
In any case, Xerxes didnt want to get into all of that. Yeah, you could call me a Harborview local, I guess. Whats the street name?
Low Street, Ninsunu said.
Xerxes looked at the five streets that fed into the small square. He pointed at one. Thats it right there. You can tell by the marks on the corner bricks.
She peered in the direction hed pointed, craning her neck to make out the details on the corner of the building.
I see what you mean, Ninsunu said. Thanks, Seer Xerxes. It would have taken me quite a while to piece the clues together. ncing at the locals in the square, she lowered her voice. Theres a personal residence near the end of Low Street. A mansion of sorts. The owner is Enki, who runs a fishing business that I believe to be a front for cult activity. The reason you two are here is to provide two possible options, depending on what ys out. Xerk, youre the muscle. Be ready to crack skulls at a moments notice. Sata, youre our irvoyant. If this turns into some sort of mind-game, youre going to be the star of the show.
As a Hasasu Seer, Satahsusar wasnt truly irvoyant. But she could sense emotions via spellcasting, an ability that coulde in very handy during investigations, interrogations, and the like.
Not giving any further exnation, Ninsunu crossed the square toward the street Xerxes had identified. Satahsusar followed, with Xerxes bringing up the rear.
Chapter 19: Low Street (2)
Chapter 19: Low Street (2)
As he passed the fountain, he looked down at some junkid out on a tarp in front of it, tended by a smudge-faced girl who couldnt have been more than ten years old. He was going to simply walk by when something caught his eye, a dolphin-shaped pendant carved from driftwood. The craftsmanship wasnt amazing, but it obviously wasnt the work of aplete amateur.
Stopping, he knelt and picked up the pendant.
Your work? he asked the girl.
She nodded.
He turned it over in his hand. His sister Ahassunu was only eight years old, but she loved both jewelry and dolphins. She would definitely like this pendant.
How much? he asked.
Fifteen minas, the girl squeaked back.
Xerxes tried not to smile. ncing at the two mages and seeing that they were already entering the street, he lowered his voice and said, I was born around here, you know. Gesturing vaguely with his head, he said, Around the corner from Shellburn Way. You know that little dead end with the scraggly tree and the rock that looks like a big shell?
By the old soup-sellerdy? the girl asked.
He grinned. Yeah, over there. Anyway, I want to buy this for my sister, and I also want to help you out. But I know its not worth fifteen minas.
She averted her eyes, and at the same time, he saw the faintest of smiles at the corner of her mouth. Two minas, she said.
Shed take one mina if I pushed hard, he thought. Digging into his money pouch, he counted out three minas. Here, take an extra.
Really? Thanks!
Stuffing the dolphin pendant into a pocket, he stood and hurried after Ninsunu and Satahsusar. They hadnt even noticed his absence, or if they had, refrained from saying anything.
Low Street was narrower and even more winding than the main avenue theyd just walked down. It was barely wide enough for three people to walk next to each other, so the mages went single file. The buildings sloping, tiled roofs had eaves that stretched out so far they nearly blocked out the sky. That style of architecture was indeed unusual, as most Isinian buildings had t roofs that made it easy to enjoy the evening breeze during summer.
Being in the back, Xerxes noticed how Satahsusar kept her robes mped tightly against her body. He sneered. Granted, this neighborhood wasnt exactly a gleaming example of cleanliness, but it wasnt as though the ce would infect her if she touched something.
Damn rich people, he thought. It would probably do Satahsusar good toe live in Harborview for a time. Shed been alive for over two centuries, but it wouldnt surprise him at all to learn that shed never had permanent lodging anywhere other than Garden Terrace.
At a certain point, Low Street widened out into something akin to a courtyard, possibly even a square, with four residence gates visible within it, two on either side. Compared to the cramped alleys, the ce seemed spacious. All four residences were obviously mansions, with slightly finer ster on the walls, fancier roof tiles, and the like.
Ninsunu stopped and looked at the four gates set into high walls.
Which one is Ogden Manor? she muttered.
The gates themselves were solid wood, making it impossible to see whaty beyond them. They were unmarked by either numbers or written text, ensuring that an outsider would have difficulty telling them apart. But Xerxes saw the differences. In Harborview and other simr neighborhoods, people preferred anonymity, and let the physical characteristics of their homes serve as their identifying marks. For instance, one of the gates had a lintel with ceramic tiles featuring a peach motif. Another gate had spiral carvings on the panels, while the one opposite had a bottom rail made of metal. There didnt seem to be anything special about the fourth gate.
Might as well just knock on all the doors, Satahsusar said, making no attempt to keep the distaste out of her tone.
Its that one, Xerxes said, pointing at the most nondescript of the four gates.
The two women looked at him askance.
Its not Ogden Manor, he exined. Its Ogdown Manor. You know, hogdown?
Hogdown? Ninsunu asked, clearly puzzled.
Xerxes bit his lip briefly to stifle the feeling of annoyance that was growing with every minute spent among upper crust people like this. On the one hand, he thirsted for the prominence and respect theymanded. On the other hand, he hated their stuffiness. Hogdown is ng for normal or ordinary, he exined. Of these four doors, which looks the least unusual to you? Before either woman could reply, he said, That one. In Harborview, just about every courtyard like this has a hogdown manor.
So, Satahsusar said lightly, do we just let ourselves in? You do have Marshal Authority, after all.
The reaction to a knock will tell a lot, Ninsunu replied. And I doubt the seconds well lose if they refuse to open will change much. She stepped over and rapped four times on the wooden door.
A few seconds passed before a door viewer opened at around eye level. It was dark on the other side of the door, making it almost impossible to see who was looking at them from inside.
Whos there? someone said from inside, their voice muffled.
I represent Mystic Aban Saddi and have Marshal Authority from the King himself. This is about the recent incidents in the city. I have some questions for Master Enki.
The person behind the door didnt respond for a good two or three seconds. Then they said, Okay, Ill tell him. Wait right here.
The door viewer snapped shut.
I vote we go in, Satahsusar said.
In this instance, Xerxes didnt disagree with her.
We wait, Ninsunu said.
As seconds passed, Xerxes hand tightened on the hilt of his sword. He looked up the street and then the other way, to find both directionspletely empty. This entire area seemedpletely deserted.
Satahsusar sighed. Theyre probably running out the back.
Xerxes suppressed his distaste for the woman and opened his mouth to voice agreement with her.
Before he could, Ninsunu said, Ive arrested dozens of cultists through the years. Never once did any of them run away when I knocked on the door. Even they know that running makes you look guilty.
Satahsusar shrugged. Xerxes flipped his sword around and rested the de on his shoulder.
A few more seconds passed, then Ninsunu stepped closer to the door until she could reach out and touch it. That said, I do agree we shouldnt just stand around forever.
Closing her eyes, she put all her fingers on the wooden surface of the door.
Xerxes didnt sense anything unusual, but it was obvious she was sending her mage sight into the door.
Not a veryplex lock, she said quietly.
Im really getting bored here, Satahsusar said.
Give me a break, Xerxes thought.
Xerk, Ninsunu said, Im going to open the door. You go in first, sword out, but be ready for spellcasting. Ill be right behind you.
He edged forward and to the left.
A momentter, he heard a click and a thump from inside the door. Mages didnt just have mage sight, they also had mage touch. The range on it was even shorter than mage sight, and though itsbat applications were so limited as to make it useless, even Seers could use it to do things like open doors or levitate small objects.
The door swung open slowly and Ninsunu stepped back.
Representatives of King and Parliament! she called out loudly. Stand down and prepare to be inspected! Lowering her voice, she said, Go ahead, Xerk.
Holding his sword in the skyward guard position, with the tip pointing up and slightly behind him, he took a tentative step into the door.
Repeating Ninsunus call, he said, Representatives of King and Parliament! Anybody there?
There was no response. However, as Xerxes took another step, an acrid odor brushed across his face that caused his nose to wrinkle and his heart to leap into his throat.
Looking half over his shoulder at Ninsunu, he said, Thats the smell of Abhorrent.
Are you sure? she asked.
The scuttling soundsing from the corridor within answered for him.
Chapter 20: Interlude - Lots of Fun (1)
Chapter 20: Interlude - Lots of Fun (1)
Many days earlier.
In a tall, gleaming tower in thergest city on Ku-Aya II, a young mage named Purattu sat with nine other young mages, and one elderly mage, around a hardwood conference table.
The young mages were all High Mystics. The fact that they had reached such a high level of arcane ability, with not a single one being over a hundred years of age, was a testament either to their level of skill or the resources their families could put into their training. Or both.
In Purattus case, it was both. His family was well-off even by the standards of the Ku-Aya starisle. Because of that, he noticed the chips and dents in the conference rooms ceramic tiles, and other such details. The wooden table was fine, but was not brand new. And the stered walls could use a touch-up.
But despite his background of rtive privilege, he despised mages who advanced by the grace of wealth alone. After all, he had true aptitude in magic, and had worked hard to make the advancements he had. His father, a self-made man, had demanded it.
He didnt look the part of a talented mage, being so stocky he verged on overweight, with blue eyes that tended to squint cynically at people who didnt understand things that he understood, and light brown hair uncharacteristic of people in this part of the starsea. But talented he was. Even though every member of this group of mages was considered young, Purattu was on the young end of the group. He wasnt even thirty years old.
At the head of the conference table was a grim old man who was beyond the level of the Mystics or High Mystics. He was an Archon, the only one in this starisle, and a man of renown even in more civilized locations such as Sin-Amuhhu. In fact, he had just returned from that higher starisle.
The situation is as we feared, the Archon said to the young mages. There are confirmed reports of Abhorrent activity in numerous starisles. How deep the problem goes is uncertain. However, all of the reports seem toe from starisles subsidiary to us. In fact, the vast majority are all focused on Ira, although there are hints of activity elsewhere. In any case, that means we bear primary responsibility for dealing with the situation.
But why, Archon? one of the young mages asked. And how? How did the Abhorrent even get here from the Nightmare Cove?
The Archon huffed. Those are the two most relevant questions, to be sure. For now, ignore the how part. The High Archons in Sin-Amuhhu are exploring a few theories. And of course, the Annunaki arent unaware of the situation.
Sir, why dont the Annunaki step in? The Nergal could handle some rogue Abhorrent.
Hearing this, Purattu forced himself not tough scornfully. Instead, he tried to keep his voice neutral as he said, Come on. The Nergal has a specific job, and its not dealing with monsters. Besides, the Anunnaki are superior beings. Theyre not going to step in to deal with a few random attacks on some lesser starisles.
Three of the other mages started talking at the same time, but the Archon raised his voice to interrupt them. First of all, High Mystic Purattu, he said, Ill remind you that we speak in terms of higher and lower starisles. Not greater and lesser. Is that understood?
Purattu forced himself not to roll his eyes. Yes, Archon.
Good. That said, your general assessment is correct. Theres no indication this invasion involves Abhorrent anywhere near the same level as an Annunaki. For the time being, we Sighted will handle matters.
As I was saying, the how of the invasion isnt important at the moment. But the why is absolutely crucial. The ten of you hereprise roughly half of the total number of High Mystics in the Ku-Aya starisle. You no doubt noticed that the rest were assigned military responsibilities earlier this morning.
There was a stir among the young High Mystics. It had been noticed, and of course, had been a point of contention and discussion in the hours before their meeting with the Archon. Some of the young High Mystics were angry that they hadnt been given responsibilities, and were ready to hurl out usations of bias. Some others imed it was because they were to be given a more important mission by the Archon.
Purattu was convinced it was thetter. After thinking about it from all angles, hed even made a small bet with a fellow High Mystic. If it turned out that they were being given a mission, he was going to have thirty shekels of extra pocket money. Not that he needed it.
Unbeknownst to even myself, the Archon continued, the mages of Sin-Amuhhu set up a secretboratory in the Ira starisle.
What? one of the High Mystics eximed. Sir, thats outrageous!
It goes against all protocol for a higher starisle to bypass us and do things on one of our lower starisles! another said.
They cant circumvent our autonomy that way! Purattu added.
The Archon raised his hand to quiet them. Normally speaking, yes. But the work going on in thisboratory warranted such an arrangement. Theyve been crafting a Gateway Key, and in fact, the work is likely alreadyplete. He stopped talking for a moment and looked around the room meaningfully. Now do you understand?
Purattu understood immediately. Gateways were the links between starisles, and were what allowed easy travel andmunication throughout the massive empire. Normally speaking, the Gateways could only be opened downward. In other words, higher starisles could open the Gateways to lower starisles, not the other way around. It was possible for a lower starisle to send asional messages up. For instance, they could request a Gateway be opened earlier than usual, although, such requests were rarely approved.
ording to rumor, Gateway Keys could be used to open a Gateway in reverse fashion. And from what Purattu had heard, it was only the Annunaki who had such keys, which they used to travel more easily through the empire.
I dont understand, one of the other High Mystics said.
Idiot, Purattu thought.
Would anyone else like to exin? the Archon asked.
Purattu raised his hand and the Archon nodded at him.
Theres an Abhorrent invasion in the exact same area where a Gateway Key is being developed, Purattu said. Perhaps its a coincidence. Or perhaps they know about the key. Either way, its dangerous. Forgetting about how the Abhorrent got here from the Nightmare Cove to begin with, if they gain ess to a tool that allows them to open Gateways any time they want, it could be a massive catastrophe.
Well-exined. Purattu is exactly right. And thus wee to your mission.
Chapter 20: Interlude - Lots of Fun (2)
Chapter 20: Interlude - Lots of Fun (2)
Purattu couldnt stop a grin from spreading out on his face. I knew we were going to get a special mission.
He nced over at his friend who now owed him thirty shekels, but his friend assiduously avoided his gaze. Heughed to himself.
Were to retrieve the key? said one of the other High Mystics.
Not exactly, the Archon said. Youre going to hide it. Right now, theres a lot of political tension on Sin-Amuhhu, with usations flying left and right about people being tied to the Cult of the Eternal Father. As a result, they want the Gateway Key sent to an unknown location where no one can find it. Thats where the ten of youe in. The first step of your journey will be to Ira. To ensure the maximum level of randomness, Ill cast lots to determine where youll be sent, both on Ira itself, and beyond. Only one of you will be sent to retrieve the actual Gateway Key. The rest will be sent to other locations and given false keys. None of you will know whether or not you have the real key. After Ira, youll go down two levels, to much lower starisles, where you will hide the key in a secure location.
Of course, the true nature of your mission wont be announced publicly, and youll have a secondary task to serve as cover. You will travel from to in the various subsidiary starisles, where you will conscript any young mages you encounter into military service. The Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic wants new recruits in case this conflict with the Abhorrent cant be resolved quickly. Youll carry orders from me personally to have the Gateways open at regr intervals to let you easily go between the subsidiary starisles. Youll also be able to send messages up as needed.
After your mission isplete, youll return here to Ku-Aya with your recruits before escorting them up to Sin-Amuhhu.
Not even I got to attend college on Sin-Amuhhu, Purattu thought. I cant believe a bunch of lesser starisle runts are going to get that privilege.
Not able to purge such thoughts from his mind, he raised his hand.
Yes, Purattu? the Archon said.
Sir, this mission doesnt conform to the usual guidelines. And it sounds exceedingly dangerous and risky. Is there extrapensation?
Of course. Youll receive tenfold remunerationpared to a standard mission. Plus bonuses depending on your performance.
I guess that isnt too bad, Purattu thought.
Any other questions?
There were other questions, but Purattu quickly tuned them out. The other High Mystics were, for the most part, fools and idiots, and he didnt want to waste brainpower listening to their ridiculous observations and issues. Instead, he contemted methods to determine if the Gateway Key he ended up with was the real one. There had to be ways to do so. He had enough of the right contacts that he could probably just pay for the knowledge. Regardless, if the Mage Parliament gave him enough time to do at least a bit of research before leaving Ku-Aya, then he would he was the true escort. After all, the old man had made it more than clear throughout the years that he thought of Purattu as being the best of the best among his peers.
The pink shells floated out to the ten High Mystics. Purattu grabbed his, stood up, and left.
After leaving the tower, he lost himself in the crowds on the street until he reached the fabled Hanging Gardens of Ku-Aya. Based on what hed heard, the Hanging Gardens here paled intoparison to those on Sin-Amuhhu. But these ones were beautiful nheless. Strolling through the lush vegetation, he found a secluded spot next to a pond and cracked open the bivalve.
Inside the left shell, inscribed delicately with dark ink, were the words: After arriving on Ira, travel to Cloudspear Ind to ept the parcel.
On the right side were the words: With parcel in hand, travel to Humusi. Do not linger there. Instead, go to each of its nine subsidiary starisles to conscript mages. Leave the item in hiding on one of the worlds you travel through.
He snapped the shell shut, dropped it onto the pathway, and crushed it beneath his heel. Kicking the resulting dust and rubble off to the side, he started walking again, all the while reviewing what he knew of the Humusi starisle. It was a subsidiary of Ira, which was a subsidiary of Ku-Aya. None of the ces below Humusi were particrly noteworthy. However, he did have their namesmitted to memory: Kartos, Erishti-Aya, Solut, Nos, Ahatsunu, Mannemid, Hannemid, Jehannemid, Gehannemid.
Ill have to do some more research before I pick where to start, he thought. He didnt exactly relish the idea of going to such backwater ces, but the premise of the mission was intriguing. And as the Archon had said, the fate of the empire could indeed be involved. There were quite a few things to get in order. Spellponents. Weapons. Maps. Traveling gear. He needed to research all the key figures on each of the lesser worlds he would be visiting. And of course, identify a good ce to hide the key.
This is going to be fun, he thought. Lots of fun.
Chapter 21: Another Clash with Abhorrent (1)
Chapter 21: Another sh with Abhorrent (1)
The disgusting odor grew stronger. If Xerxes hadnt already encountered such olfactory assaults on multiple asions, he would definitely have shrunk back from it. In fact, behind him, he heard a retching sounding from Satahsusar.
And Ninsunu said, In the name of the Pontifarch. That smell.
In the darkness ahead were spindly white legs, followed by a pale, glistening body and a maroon head. It was exactly like the Abhorrent that Gandash had summoned, exceptrger.
He gripped his sword and bent his knees. What to do? Slice off legs? Or try to stab it? Did these things have hearts or brains? How did you kill them? During the fateful battle with the female Abhorrent, he hadnt learned much other than they could take immense amounts of damage and still keep fighting. And they were stronger, even than mages.
I dont think its a spawn, Xerxes said. Its too big.
The thing crawled toward him, its dozens of spider-like legs moving in waves as it pulled itself through the corridor. Unlike the smaller versions, the reddish heads actually resembled mouthless human faces.
Careful, Xerk, Ninsunu said. If its a juvenile, it could have powers.
I know.
The legs, he thought. Ill go for the legs. If it cant walk, its not going to be as dangerous.
He was preparing to jump forward when something caught his attention. Movement further down the tunnel. More legs.
Theres more than one, he said.
The first one was about five cubits away, with the second one only a few cubits behind the first.
What do I do, High Seer? he said.
Back out into the open, she said. That way I can help you.
Okay. However, he had already identified the best position tounch a blow, and he didnt want to lose that opportunity. The Abhorrent slid a bit further toward him, and he jumped. The corridor was narrow but tall, giving him just enough room to bring the de down and to the left.
His de shed through five legs at once, sending the whitish stalks flopping to the ground amidst gtinous ichor that pumped from the severed ends. The Abhorrent made a hissing soundfrom where, Xerxes wasnt sure, as he still couldnt see any mouthand shrank back briefly.
Okay, this isnt so bad.
He used that moment to back out of the corridor into the courtyard, keeping his eyes on the monster the entire time. It only took seconds for it to apparently forget about its injury and crawl forward.
Off to the side, Ninsunu reached into her spellponent pouch.
ncing in the other direction, he tried to locate Satahsusar, but didnt see her.
Dont tell me she ran off, he thought.
As the wounded Abhorrent came closer, Xerxes prepared to deliver a second blow. The first attack had been sessful, so it made sense to follow up with more. As it reached the doorway, he jumped forward again. It iled two or three legs to block his blow, but he chopped through them. His de continued, biting into the things side and causing a brief spurt of ckish internal fluid. The stench in the area grew stronger.
It hissed and struck him with its legs, but he dodged to the left and pulled his de back before swinging it from a downward position. It chopped right through the Abhorrents reddish head. Taking advantage of his momentum, he pulled the sword back and then stabbed it straight into the thing.
He twisted the de and then angled it straight up, slicing the creature nearly in half from middle to top. It shuddered and shrieked, ck blood and milky ichor sttering everywhere. The stench became overwhelming. The creature then copsed, and Xerxes backed up, feeling more confident than ever.
See, theyre not invincible! He flicked his sword through the air hoping to get some of the blood and gore off of it. It only helped a bit. There wasnt time to fumble for the cloth hed brought along for that purpose. It would have to wait.
He heard a thump next to him and looked over to see Satahsusar. So, she hadnt fled.
In that case, she said, I cant let you have all the fun.
She held a long curved dagger in each hand. Where shed been hiding them on her person, he had no idea. Satahsusar held the des with confidence, the way an expert fighter would. But her two, small des were very different from his own longsword, which was roughly two cubits from end to end. He had a big advantage in reach.
Meanwhile, Ninsunu still hadnt taken out any spellponent to cast a spell. How many more are there?
At least one, Xerxes said. Even as the words left his mouth, he saw the second monster crawling out into the open, all of its legs intact, its pale body glistening with slime. The legs are stronger than they seem. They
Seemingly making a point of ignoring him, Satahsusar jumped forward, her knives shing as she removed four legs from the Abhorrent. She danced backward just in time to avoid a followup leg swipe from the creature.
Theyre not manifesting any powers, Ninsunu said. So theyre not juveniles.
Agreed, Xerxes said, he bent forward on one knee and struck from above, his swordpletely avoiding any legs while cutting into the things back.
It swiveled and swiped at him, and one of the sharp, w-like ends snagged his pant leg, ripping it open. He jerked the sword out of the Abhorrents body, then jumped back to avoid more leg swipes.
Need to be more precise than that, Satahsusar said, lopping off a few more legs, then burying a knife deep in the things head. Ripping the knife downward, she sessfully ended its life, causing it to flop down next to the other.
Was the tide of battle turning?
Satahsusar tsked. I really dont see why everyone is in such a tizzy over a few overgrown spiders. Theyre no different than
Xerxes saw more motion in the corridor. Hey, he interrupted. Its not over yet.
Pursing her lips, Satahsusar said, You ought to show a bit more respect for
This third Abhorrent didnt waste time. It leaped forward like a jumping spider, its target being Satahsusar. She let out a squawk and jumped back, but the tips of the things w-like legs snagged her skirts, tripping her. One of her knives ttered to the side. As she fell into a seated position, Xerxes swung his sword, severing the legs that had grabbed her. There wasnt time to help her to her feet. He tried to sh some more legs, but this Abhorrent was either smarter than its fellows, or perhaps it had learned from observing them get cut down.
Xerxes sword touched nothing but air, and then the thing was on him, its legs iling at him from all directions. Almost immediately, it snagged some loose parts of his clothing. His sleeve at the elbow. His pant leg.
Chapter 21: Another Clash with Abhorrent (2)
Chapter 21: Another sh with Abhorrent (2)
But before it could get a firm grip, hended a kick on the things reddish face that shoved it back by half a cubit or so. He used that opportunity to spring away from it.
By this point, Satahsusar was on her feet again and reaching toward her fallen knife. Seeing her present her back to it, the Abhorrent turned away from Xerxes and attacked her. She shrieked again as her skirts were caught, which caused her to fall to her hands and knees. Her other knife ttered in the opposite direction. Now she had no weapon.
Meanwhile, another Abhorrent had appeared in the corridor, and Xerxes was sure he could see more motion behind it.
More areing out! he shouted.
Get Sata out of there! Ninsunu said. Having shoved her hand into herponent pouch, she brought it out with a handful of glittering dust. Xerxes wasnt an expert regarding spellponents, but he knew Sinitu mages used gold dust as their base.
Having never seen a Sinutu mage cast a spell, he was curious about what would happen, but now wasnt a moment for casual observation. He swung his sword at the Abhorrent harrying Satahsusar, taking off a leg and shing its abdomen. It squealed, spun toward him, and forced him back.
Another Abhorrent was now out in the open, with a third behind it. Worse Xerxes saw a glint that indicated yet another one wasing. Soon the courtyard was going to be so crowded he couldnt swing his sword properly.
Now more than ever Xerxes wished he was a High Seer. If he was, he could cast Minor Augmentation and turn the strong end of his sword into a burning expression of power, not just his fist. With a weapon like that, he could chop these Abhorrents into pieces with almost no effort.
But he wasnt a High Seer. And there were now three Abhorrent to deal with. Probably more.
Satahsusar had one of her knives back and was hiking her skirt up while simultaneously waving her weapon in the general direction of the nearest monster.
Hya! Ninsunu shouted.
Xerxes turned, and his eyes went wide as he saw threads of mm filling her, causing her to twitch as she changed shape and size. She grew taller and broader of shoulder, while at the same time her face became tter, and curved horns sprouted from her forehead, sweeping back toward her neck. Her arms lengthened and sprouted dark green hair, while jagged ws emerged from her fingers. Her voluminous clothing remained intact, almost as if she had picked her garments specifically to cover her even after casting her spell. She continued to transform, but Xerxes forced himself to focus on the Abhorrent.
He shed and stabbed, while off to the side Satahsusar was devolving into a frenzy as she tried to defend herself. Then a roar rattled the corridor as Ninsunu finished her transformation, stepped forward and grabbed one of the Abhorrent bodily. It let loose a shrieking hiss as she threw it hard against the opposite wall. A few of its legs were crushed, but little more happened. It dropped to the ground and jumped at her.
Another Abhorrent emerged. The courtyard was really starting to get crowded. He thrust forward, stabbing the nearest Abhorrent in its reddish head. But that didnt stop it. Spindly legs struggled to grab his de as he backed further away. His back was almost to the wall.
This isnt working! he said, his previous confidence copsing.
Satahsusar lunged forward, trying to pull off the same move she had before, but failing and getting shed across the arm in the process. Blood flowed toward her hand as she lurched away. I agree with Seer Xerxes, she said.
Ninsunu let loose another bestial roar as the Abhorrent shed throwntched its arms around her shoulders and another grabbed her legs from behind.
Using her massive, greenish arms to hold the Abhorrent at bay, she kicked at the one behind her. But then, the monster in front of her suddenly twitched, and a line appeared from its head to the base of its abdomen. It was like a long, thin crack that opened wider and wider, sticky slime stretching between either side.
The opening widened, like a massive, vertical mouth. And as it opened, countless swaying tentacles appeared within, like undting teeth that slowly extended toward the High Seer.
When Xerxes saw that, his heart went cold, and he felt weak at the knees.
Help, Ninsunu grunted, her voice deep and gravelly.
Gritting his teeth, he jumped toward her, raising his sword overhead before bringing it down with all the force he could muster. It shed clean through the entire Abhorrent, resulting in an enormous spray of ck blood and white ichor.
Yes! he thought.
Ninsunu tossed the corpse aside, spun, and kicked the monster that was harrying her. It tucked its legs around itself as it rolled backward.
Send up the re to call the soldiers! Satahsusar said.
No, Ninsunu growled. Theyd get ughtered. We go.
She bent her legs and jumped straight up onto the rooftop.
Xerxes saw more Abhorrenting out of the mansions entrance, some of them crawling right over the mangled corpses of their fellows.
To the side, Satahsusar shed at some legs, severed one, then turned and made a leap for the rooftop.
Holding his sword with only one hand, he did the same, taking a running leap and then extending his free hand up. His fingers found purchase on a roof tile, and he pulled himself up, scrambling for a toehold on the wall as he did. Behind him, an Abhorrent stretched its legs out, but he pulled his feet over the top of the roof before it reached him.
Standing, he looked around to see at least six Abhorrent in the street courtyard below, and moreing out of the building. Some were small, simr to the ones Gandash had summoned at Ligish Castle. Others wererger.
A few cubits away, Satahsusar mbered up, dislodging a roof tile in the process but otherwise making it safely away from the courtyard. She only had one knife left.
We made it, he said. I almost cant believe we made it.
Vile things, Satahsusar spat, turning to look down. What do we do, Nina? Run back to the cart? Or wait to see how many wille out of
A white tendril shot out from the dark corridor and stabbed her through the thigh.
Chapter 22: Tentacular Strands (1)
Chapter 22: Tentacr Strands (1)
Satahsusar was caughtpletely by surprise as more tentacr, white strands wrapped around her legs and pulled them out from under her. She screamed, but it was cut short as her back and skull smacked onto the roof tiles. Several tiles cracked to pieces beneath her, and then the white tendrils started dragging her down toward the courtyard. She screamed again.
Xerxes didnt like this woman one bit, but she was a fellow Isinian, a fellow mage, and a fellow human. So he bound over the rooftop and leaped forward to grab her hand.
Roof tiles crunched beneath him as hended, but he managed to wrap his fingers around her wrist and felt her fingers tighten.
Hold on, he said.
Unfortunately, the roof was sharply angled. Almost as soon as he grabbed onto Satahsusar, he found himself sliding down toward the courtyard with her. He dropped his sword and tried to grab onto something, but there were only more roof tiles. His fingers closed on the edge of one, but then they slipped loose and he fell.
Hended nearly on top of Satahsusar, with roof tile chunks raining down around them. There were hulking, spider-like Abhorrent everywhere. However, they all seemed to be looming in ce and doing nothing else. They werent advancing toward him and Satahsusar. The reason was obvious, and it caused his mouth to dry with dread. There was a more powerful of their kind emerging. A topless woman climbed out from the shadows of the mansion. Beneath her were a host of spindly legs, and she had long white hair and lips like dried blood.
He thought for a moment that this was the same beast that had dragged Bel to her death. But it wasnt. Her facial features were different, her chin rounder, her nose tter. In other respects, though, she was almost exactly the same. And her long, ropey fingers still had a tight hold on Satahsusar.
Mm-oth, the female Abhorrent said, and she chuckled, dragging Satahusar out from under Xerxes.
Days ago, Xerxes would have been scared witless. But not now.
Let go of her, he growled, getting up on one knee. He jabbed his hand into hisponent pouch, drew out some crabnickel powder, and started the Asgagu Isten rune.
The female Abhorrent made a dismissive gesture, and the other Abhorrent began moving again. Toward him.
He ignored them and focused on his anger to keep fear from taking hold inside.
His fist red with bright light, and not bothering toe up with a n of attack, he jumped toward the female Abhorrent.
Apparently, this came as a surprise to her. All she managed to do was open her eyes widely before his fist plunged into her side, burning through the soft skin beneath her ribs. Sizzling and popping sounds could be heard, apanied by a cloying reek so intense that Satahsusar vomited.
The Abhorrent reared back screaming, dropping Satahusar but dragging Xerxes up with her, as his hand was now inside her. She wed at him with her legs, but he didnt think about the sting of pain and instead reached out and grabbed her forearm. With that bit of leverage, he shoved his burning hand deeper into her side, ignoring the wave of nausea that swept through him as the steam from her boiling blood and ichor entered his nostrils. He shoved his hand deeper. Deeper. And even deeper still. The shrieks of the monster were almost unbearable.
Fuck you and all your kind! he growled. His arm was now inside her up to the elbow, and she was reeling to the point where it seemed she might topple over backward. Letting loose a gutteral shout, he shoved his hand even farther inside her torso, toward where he hoped her heart was. Gore spurted out of her, coating his shoulder, sshing onto his face, but he ignored it.
Then his shoulder was inside her, and she fell backward.
He saw the ground approaching him, and leaned his head back just in time to avoid smacking it on the paving stones.
Crawling to his feet, he yanked his arm out from inside the beast, resulting in a sound like a cantaloupe being extracted from a barrel ofrd. He flicked his arm, sending chunks of mostly-cooked bits of internal organs, muscle, and even skin off of him. His fist still burned, so he held it out in front of him as he prepared for the Abhorrent woman to mber to her feet.
She didnt.
That didnt mean the other Abhorrent had suddenly disappeared, though. As blood and other fluids dripped from his elbow to the ground, he saw movement all around him. Satahusar was a few cubits away, her hand gripping her thigh, where a stain of blood was rapidly spreading out. Apparently, the death of thisrger Abhorrent hadnt cowed the others. If nothing else, her living presence had. They were moving.
Again, no time for dy. The light of Singr Lethality was fading, so Xerxes grabbed another handful of powder and recast it. Just as one of the Abhorrent lunged at him, the light shone brightly again, and he punched it hard in the abdomen. His fist drove directly into the thing, killing it in a single blow. Except more came out of the mansion.
He heard a thump behind him, and turned to see Ninsunu in her bestial form. Lashing out at the nearby Abhorrent with wed hands, she drove them back, then reached out and picked up Satahusar with both arms.
Come! she said. Then she jumped back up. Xerxes smashed one more nearby Abhorrent, melting its face, before following. Ninsunu was already running up to the ridge of the roof.
His swordy precariously at the edge of the rooftop; snatching it, he bolted after Ninsunu. Together, they ran along the ridge, then reached the end and leaped off, clearing ten feet of intervening empty space beforending hard on another rooftop.
ncing over his shoulder, he saw one of the spider-like Abhorrent climbing up. He kept running.
A ttering noise caught his attention from behind as the Abhorrent from moments ago jumped in pursuit.
Chapter 22: Tentacular Strands (2)
Chapter 22: Tentacr Strands (2)
Theyre not giving up! he shouted.
Ninsunu looked back. Run faster, she said.
They sprinted and jumped across the rooftops of Harborview. The Abhorrent chased them.
Ninsunu was a lot faster than him. Not only was she a High Seer, but also, in her transformed state she was more athletic. And that meant he was holding her back.
You go ahead, he said. Ill go on the streets.
Meet at the keep.
Making onest leap across the top of a roof, he slid down the opposite side and went over the edge. Landing on his feet, he took a moment to gain his bearings.
He was on the very edge of Harborview, and recognized the streets around him.
The keeps that way, he thought.
Keeping his sword gripped firmly in his hand, he started running. In his opinion, sticking to the streets was better. Not only was it easier to run on level ground, but also, the Abhorrent couldnt see him.
Although could they sense him?
He kept ncing over his shoulder, but didnt see any pursuing monsters. He ducked left and right through various intersections, picking what he felt was the fastest route back to the keep, while simultaneously avoiding any of the main thoroughfares.
He wondered what the Abhorrent were doing now. If they werent chasing him, then were they killing people? Innocents?
About halfway back to the keep, he couldnt keep those thoughts from his mind. Gritting his teeth, he jumped back up to the rooftops. Looking back toward Harborview, he saw no evidence of Abhorrent. Nor did he see Ninsunu.
Not sure what it meant, he dropped back down and kept running.
Before long he was back at the gate of the keep, without having seen or smelled any hints of monsters. The soldiers at the gate were waiting for him.
Wee back, Seer, one of them said. Igh Seer Ninsunu said youd being this way.
Thanks, he said, entering. Did she say where to go?
She said to clean up, then ead back to the council room.
Got it. Thanks.
He hadnt even had a chance to cleanse the dust of travel off himself after returning to the city, so he was d for the chance to do so, rushed though it was. It was already nighttime, and the urge to sleep made his eyes scratchy.
d in a proper mages robe and white hat, he hurried through the route Captain Ishki had taken earlier.
The council chamber seemed emptier than before.
Mystic Abban Saddi was there, but the king was nowhere to be seen. Ninsunu was present, back in her ordinary form. Satahsusar wasnt there. Nor were Shemesh, Alwin, Gandash, or Gandashs father Dumamu. However, Xerxes father was there.
As Xerxes entered, Ataneedusu breathed a loud sigh of relief. Thank the Monad, he said, hurrying over and embracing his son.
Im fine, Dad, he said, hugging his father back.
I was worried, Attaneedusu said gruffly. High Seer Ninsunu said you single-handedly killed a juvenile Abhorrent? Thats incredible!
The corner of Xerxes mouth turned up, but he stifled the grin. I just did what I had to do.
You deserve a medal, Aban Saddi said. And Ill give you one, after all this is over.
Xerxes stood up a bit straighter and tried hard to stop from smiling. It was my duty, sir.
Aban Saddi nodded.
Attaneedusu squeezed his sons shoulder, then guided him to the table.
What happened to the ones that were chasing us? he asked.
They disappeared, Ninsunu said. Which is a big concern. And as I was saying, Aban, this yet again proves my theory. Or at least lends weight to it. The Abhorrent are after us. We shouldnt be strutting around in the open. Gather everyone and hole up in the keep. Thats our safest option.
Aban Saddi crossed his arms. I dont disagree. But, why dont we send an emergency request to open the Gateway to Humusi? Once they learn whats happening, they might send help. High Mystics, at the very least. Maybe Archons.
Ninsunu shook her head. They almost never respond to messages, Aban. Besides, what if were not the only starisle thats being invaded? Its entirely possible they want us isted. Quarantined.
We could open a Gateway to lower starisles. Either hole up in one of those worlds, or conscript some mages to form arger force to defend ourselves. Hell, Nina, Id even be happy sailing to the south. Find an ind somewhere. Anything but sitting in this castle like fish on the chopping block. Look at what happened to Satahsusar. Shes not exactly abat whiz, but she knows how to handle herself in a fight, and she barely survived. Imagine if those things infest these corridors.
Ninsunu frowned. Seer Xerxes, what do you think?
Xerxes opened his mouth to respond, but was so taken aback at being asked for advice that he didnt know what to say. I um.
The Head Mage looked at him. Dont be nervous. Just tell us what your gut feeling is.
He took a moment to consider. Thest thing he wanted to do was end up disagreeing with the majority. And right now, Ninsunus ideas seemed the soundest. I agree with High Seer Ninsunu. Its true I killed that thing earlier, but I think its because I caught it by surprise. It was the same type that was hunting us on the road, and his lip curled in disgust theyre dangerous. Very, very dangerous. Even one is scary, let alone if theres an entire horde of them.
Aban Saddi exhaled slowly and sat in his chair. Fine. Once the other teams are back, well hash out the details. Shemesh, Gandash, and Alwin went to investigate an incident in Garden Terrace. Beat, Nohem, and Fale are still on the same mission from earlier. Theyre both supposed to return this evening. We can have a course of action ready for when the sun rises.
Sir, Ataneedusu said, I was wondering
The door mmed open and Shemesh stormed into the room, Gandash and Alwin trailing behind him.
We have an issue, he said. A big fucking issue.
Chapter 23: Something Big…. (1)
Chapter 23: Something Big¡. (1)
Whats the situation? Aban Saddi asked.
Walking to the table, Shemesh said, While investigating the incident in Garden Terrace, we followed a lead that took us out toward the city walls. We found a warehouse there, with a tunnel leading to the outside. Probably built by smugglers, but controlled by fucking cultists. Some Abhorrent ambushed us. Now theyre loose in the city.
Aban Saddi nodded. Something simr happened to Ninsunu.
Shemesh exhaled heavily. Considering how it yed out, I I have no choice but to admit I was wrong. He looked at Ninsunu. Youre right, Nina. At least about their goal. It seems obvious that theyre after us.
But if thats the case, why have they been ughtering the Unsighted? Aban Saddi asked.
If theyre after mm, then it makes sense, Ninsunu said. The Unsighted have mm within them, just not huge stockpiles like we do. Even flies are meat, right?
I never thought Id see the day, Shemesh said, when I agreedpletely with Nina. But yes, that analogy makes sense.
Ninsunu tilted her head up slightly. The group of Abhorrents we uncovered chased us halfway across the city before disappearing. Somewhere between Harborview and here. Presumably, something simr happened with you?
He nodded. We fought our way free from the initial onught. Then ran. And yes, at a certain point, they stopped pursuing us. Frankly I was too concerned with our own safety to confirm where exactly they went.
Aban Saddi massaged his temples. At least we know our previous theory about how they got inside was correct. Tunnels.
Its the same in Harborview as well, Ninsunu said. The slums have two or three smuggler tunnels to every one that exists elsewhere.
What if theyre gathering in preparation for a major assault? Shemesh said. He looked at Ninsunu.
Its not impossible, she said. In fact it seems entirely usible.
We need to confirm one way or another, Aban Saddi said. Ataneedusu, go find Colonel Nur-Ayya. Have him quadruple the troops on the battlements and do the same with patrols. I want soldiers on the streets trying to figure out where these things are. Tell them to observe, not engage. I want mages inside the walls for now. Have the colonel assign at least three soldiers to every magic user. I want all of them guarded at all times. Also bring the families inside the walls. Thest thing we need is mages going out to check on loved ones.
Yes, Mystic, Ataneedusu said. Leaning to Xerxes, he said, See youter, Son.
Bye, Dad.
The higher-ranking mages went on to discuss more details of their n to deal with Abhorrent, asking asional bits of advice and input even from Gandash and Xerxes. For the frist time, Xerxes was feeling what it was like to actually be part of the mages of the, and not just a student. It felt good.
Eventually, Aban-Saddi dismissed the Seers, telling them to go to sleep and be ready for further assignments in the morning.
Xerxes father hadnt returned, but there were already troops lined up outside the door, ready to escort the mages who left the council room. Six of them were assigned to Xerxes and Gandash, and marched behind them as they made their way to the general sleeping quarters set aside for mages.
With soldiers virtually hovering over their shoulders, it was hard to make conversation. However, Xerxes was able to recount his foray into Harborview, and Gandash exined in detail what happened to him as part of Shemeshs team.
I was totally useless, Gandash said. Like I have been this entire time.
Dont say that, Xerxes said. Were only Seers, after all. Hows your chamber?
I have enough for one spell. Thats it. At least you know how to fight, Xerk.
Fighting isnt everything. Remember what happened at Ligish Castle? Your spellcasting saved my life. Keep yourponent pouch ready.
Yeah.
The soldiers took their responsibility seriously, leaving two of their number to guard the entrance door, and stationing the others in key locations both in the room and down the hall.
Afterying on the bed, Xerxes was certain he would be woken up within minutes to hear about a massive wave of Abhorrent monsters storming the castle. The thought was so terrifying that he didnt think he could sleep. However, exhaustion caught up to him quickly, and before he realized it, he was snoring.
A nightmare woke him just before the sun rose, and he couldnt sleep after that. Everything was quiet; obviously, there hadnt been any sort of nighttime assault on the keep. Hey in bed, thinking about how strange the world had be, and wondering what the day would bring. Would they flee the city to try to draw out the Abhorrent? Or would Ninsunu finally convince Aban Saddi to have everyone hide in the castle?
Xerxes wasnt quite sure what his opinion was. If it came to a vote, hed probably just go along with whatever side seemed likely to win.
There were different soldiers in the room. Theyd obviously changed shifts during the night. There were also a few other sleeping forms.
He quietly left, escorted by three soldiers, to get breakfast. He hoped to go find his mother and sister after that, but before he could, word came from Aban Saddi that everyone needed to gather for a meeting. This time, the council chamber was packed, not only with the mages who had been missing the night before, but also with governmental and military figures, including King Nabuhisnuisin and Colonel Nur-Ayya.
One of the mages to return was Fale of Od, who had been Bels mentor and close friend. She had the same fair skin and hair as Bel and Captain Ishki, but her braids were longer and interspersed with bone jewelry. And her mage garments were altered to be much more utilitarian and decidedly less modest.
Is it true? she yelled before she was even through the door. Is Bels corpse just sitting out there for the dogs and crows to eat?
Im sorry, Fale, said Aban Saddi.
Fale then unleashed a scream of rage that left Xerxes ears ringing and his chest tight as he suddenly found himself recalling the horror of the bridge.
Chapter 23: Something Big…. (2)
Chapter 23: Something Big¡. (2)
Fale bunched her hand into a fist, mmed it on the table, and let out another howl. Then she looked up and saw Xerxes across from her, his face pale.
Expression softening, she walked around the table and put a hand on his shoulder. I heard about how you fought. You did what you could.
He opened his mouth to respond, but words wouldnte out. He wasnt sure Fale was right. Hed tried to stop thinking about that nightmarish fight, as it felt like every decision hed made was wrong. Finally, he just stammered, I-Im sorry.
Fales hand moved from his shoulder to the back of his neck. She squeezed and pulled him closer to her, until their foreheads touched. Lowering her voice, she said, In Od, warriors dont say sorry. Not for things like this.
He nodded.
Voice dropping even more, so that only he could hear her, she said, Lets give these fuckers hell, alright? And when we kill all of them, well go back out and find Bel. Give her a proper burial. Agreed?
He took a breath. Agreed.
Good mage.
After that, he found he did feel a little bit better. Give them hell, he thought. Yeah.
The morning briefing wasnt particrly enlightening. The strangest development was that not a single injury or death had been reported through the night. Apparently, no soldier or civilian had encountered an Abhorrent at all. It was a marked difference from the previous week, during which time incidents had urred regrly.
Everyone seemed to agree that it meant something big was going to happen soon. There was a heated debate about the role of the mages. Ninsunu pressed for them to remain safely behind the walls. But, generally speaking, neither mages nor the military folk men were willing to sit around waiting, and when it came time to vote, the consensus was to take the initiative. And, as Aban Saddi said, to keep the people safe. Xerxes eyed the room carefully and voted with the majority.
ns were made. Squads were formed, and they began to carefully investigate parts of the city where it seemed likely Abhorrent could be holed up. Every precaution was taken. Squads had whistles, res, and the like, just in case they were suddenly attacked. No one was allowed to go into any situation alone.
Yet again, Gandash and Xerxes were separated. Xerxes was paired with Ninsunu, while Gandash joined Fale.
The primary goal was to track down every known member of the Eternal Father Cult.
Xerxes learned a few things from Ninsunu, who had previous experience hunting cultists. For instance, she told him that the high-ranking members often learned to speak the Abhorrentnguage, or bits of it. And how they believed the Eternal Father to be superior to the Pontifarch. As for who the Eternal Father was, Ninsunu had theories but not enough evidence to make a determination.
As the squads returned around the lunch hour, tension grew as squad after squad reported no cult activity. Residences and businesses that were known to be linked to the cult were abandoned. The mansion in Harborview had been torched in the night, causing the entire neighborhood to go up in a fiery ze. The smoking ruins were still too hot to dig through. The warehouse with the tunnel had suffered a simr fate. Two other locations in the city had burned as well.
Where the hell are they? Shemesh asked.
Maybe they fled, said Colonel Nur-Ayya.
Or got sacrificed, added Ninsunu.
Sacrificed? muttered a soldier off to the side. He didnt seem to be the only one shocked by the concept.
Human sacrifice isnt unknown in the Cult of the Eternal Father, Ninsunu said. For a variety of reasons. Now that their so-called gods are actually here, maybe theyre stepping up their efforts?
To what end? asked Aban Saddi.
No one had an answer.
Where were the cultists? Where were the Abhorrent invaders? What was the point of the entire invasion?
Aban Saddi allowed for a very short break for lunch for everyone present.
That was when, at longst, Xerxes was able to reunite with his family for a meal.
I missed you so much, Xerk, his mom said. She was a ssic Isninian beauty, which was one of the reasons why Ataneedusu had fallen in love with her overnight, when they were nothing but Harborview waifs. She was still youngshed given birth to Xerxes when she was only seventeen years oldbut life in the slums had been tough, and the years showed.
I missed you too, Mom, he said, wrapping his arms around her. Many of his friends shied away from their mothers, but not Xerxes. He didnt care that he was sixteen and grown up. He loved hugging his mother, and he always would.
Zokey! his sister cried when she saw him, and she ran up and jumped into his arms. He swung her around. He loved his little sister, too, and was more than happy to give a ck eye to anybody who mocked him for it, or who tried to cause problems for her. Not that she needed it. At eight years old, she was already more of a scrapper than he had been when he was ten.
Putting her back down, he knelt in front of her and said, Ahassy, guess what?
What? What?
I got you something. Look. He pulled out the driftwood dolphin.
Oooh. Its so pretty! She took it, sped it against her neck, and then hugged him again.
Come on, kids, lets eat, Ataneedusu said.
Never before had Xerxes been so happy to enjoy a meal at home. Of course, his parents wanted to know all about his journey. He told them quite a bit, but most of it was about the journey to the castle. Not the return trip. He avoided mentioning Bels name, and when he noticed how his mother did the same, he realized his father must have exined things to her already.
The meal ended so quickly that he felt like his head was spinning.
As he and his father prepared to return to the council chamber, his mother put her arms around him again. Stay strong, my son, she said. I love you.
I love you too, Mom.
Bye-bye Zokey, his sister said.
He knelt and gave her onest hug. I love you, Ahassy. Make sure to take care of Mom, okay?
Okay.
The afternoon went simrly to the morning, with soldiers and mages alike prowling through the city trying to determine what exactly was happening. The results were the same.
Nothing.
No cultists.
No Abhorrent.
This wasntforting to anyone. In fact, it caused tension to mount, slowly but surely. Everyone seemed to be on edge, gripping weapons and spellponent pouches constantly, eyes shifting back and forth relentlessly, just waiting for a poisoned dart to fly out of a shadowed alley, or a monstrous Abhorrent to leap from a rooftop.
Chapter 23: Something Big…. (3)
Chapter 23: Something Big¡. (3)
He never had a chance to reunite with Gandash, though it was to his delight that, in the afternoon, Sergeant Tamharu was assigned to his squad.
Xerk! the sergeant said. How you holding up?
Doing okay, Sarge. Any news? Say, what happened to Master Ligishs machine? I forgot about it in all themotion.
I think the mages forgot, too, he said. Captain Ishki got orders to lock it up for safe keeping. I guess theyll wait until this invasion is dealt with before looking at it. You ready to go out there and skewer some bug monsters?
Xerxes grinned. Ready to sliceem and diceem!
Tamharuughed.
As it turned out, they were assigned to patrol Harborview. To Xerxes surprise, he learned that Tamharu had also been born and raised there.
Howe you dont talk like it? Xerxes asked.
Howe you dont? the sergeant responded. I heard some of the boys saying you were born and raised here, but you sound like an ogdown fancypants mage to me.
Xerxesughed. Okay, fair point.
They didnt encounter any Abhorrent. Or any cultists. They did stop a mugging, and arrested a pickpocket, although Ninsunu said they didnt have time to cart them to jail, so they let thewbreakers off with beatings.
Before long, it was time to part ways with Tamharu. Even though theyd only known each other for a short time, Xerxes felt closer with him than with virtually any of the other mages with whom hed been associated for much longer.
Take care of yourself, Xerk, Tamharu said.
You too, Sarge.
No need for the title.
Xerxes heart suddenly felt heavy, though he wasnt sure why. Okay, Tamharu. Please, be careful. If things get bad just be careful.
The sergeant gave him a casual salute, then left. Xerxes tried to ignore the premonition this might be thest time he saw him.
Just nerves, he told himself.
Night fell.
This time, Xerxes didnt sleep well. He woke at least three times.
The next days routine was the same.
While he, Ninsunu, and a few soldiers were poking around the docks, something happened on the other side of the city. Shemesh and Alwin stumbled onto a group of five Abhorrent lurking in an abandoned tailors shop, along with three cultists.
One Abhorrent died in the resulting sh. Two cultists lost their lives.
Alwin didnt make it. Another mage dead.
Aban Saddi flew into a rage upon hearing the news, pouring fiery curse words onto Shemesh. It was made even worse by the fact that Shemesh failed to prevent the surviving cultist from escaping. The way Shemesh wilted only went to reinforce how rarely Aban Saddi ever said anything negative to him.
One thing was certain: the Abhorrent and their cultist followers hadnt fled the city. They were still out there, hiding and waiting. But for what?
The only upside to the event was that Nohemthe third Buhhu mageand Gandash managed to track down the missing Abhorrent monsters before they went into hiding again. What was more, the four fleeing spawn led them to another nest of sorts. Neither Gandash nor Nohem was impulsive enough to barge into the ce. Thus Abad Saddi sent a group of sixty soldiers, led by Captain Ishiki and Seer Fale, to deal with the beasts. Xerxes and his father, both Asgagu mages, were told to go along and provide extra offensive power. They wiped them out.
After that mixture of tragedy and sess, two days passed in which nothing happened.
On the third day, things changed dramatically.
Xerxes was one of the first to notice. Waking early, he ate a quick breakfast and, nked by his usual escort of soldiers, went out to the battlements to look over the city in the light of the rising sun.
Leaning his shoulder up against a crion and resting his sword against his chest, he was gazing toward the east when something in his peripheral vision caught his attention.
A falling star.
A meteor.
A chill ran up his spine as he saw the burning object steak down andnd somewhere off in the distance. Although he couldnt be sure, it had to be only a few leagues from the city.
Did you see that? he asked of the soldiers who stood closest to him
See what? the soldier asked.
Never mind.
Gazing back out into the sky briefly, he was about to turn and head back into the keep when he saw another meteor.
Look! he said.
The soldier stepped closer to get a better view through the crentions. Falling star? the soldier said.
Yeah, Xerxes replied. The Abhorrent areing in those things. I wonder.
The soldier gulped nervously. I sure ope its nothing but
He stopped talking as he realized that this meteor was a lot closer than the other, so much so that he had to crane his heads to see it. Furthermore, its angle of descent was much steeper.
Xerxes, having experienced a meteor flying directly overhead, didnt duck as it passed over, but the soldier did. They heard a faint rumbling sound as the meteor crashed into the ground so close to the city walls that they saw a cloud of dust a momentter.
Oly shit, the soldier said.
Xerxes gritted his teeth. Yeah, we need to report this. Come on, lets
He stopped talking.
Up in the sky, hed spotted another burning object. But somehow, he could tell that this one was much bigger than any of the others.
The smaller meteors had streaked down like diving falcons; this bigger one tumbled end over end without any sense of urgency. It almost seemed to be falling in slow motion. But as it got bigger, and bigger, and bigger, Xerxes heart pounded.
How big was it?
And it seemed to be heading directly toward him. It wasnt like the situation back on the road, where the meteor had looked like it was heading toward him, but actually wasnt. As the meteor grewrger andrger in his field of vision, he didnt get any sense that it was slowly drifting to the left, or the right. No, it wasing right toward him. What would happen when it hit? Fire? Explosions? Destruction? Probably all of those.
Its going tond in the city, he said. Maybe even hit the keep.
Fucking ell, the soldier muttered, standing there as motionless as a gravestone.
Yeah. Keeping his eyes on the meteor, he pushed past the petrified soldier and toward the door. If that thing hits us, were dead!
Chapter 24: Taking the Fight To Them (1)
Chapter 24: Taking the Fight To Them (1)
Xerxes ran down the tower and through the corridors. He didnt bother waiting for the soldiers, who still hadnt recovered from the shock of seeing a massive burning rock descending toward them.
He raced toward the council chamber, leaving tapestries pping in the long hallways as he elerated past speeds that ordinary Unsighted were capable of.
When he burst into the room, the cacophony of numerous conversations made it clear the news had been reported already, at least to some degree. Mystic Aban Saddi, who Xerxes suspected slept in the council chamber, was there. So were Ninsunu, Satahsusar, Fale, and Nohem, along with other important figures in the city. Colonel Nur-Ayya was absent.
Everybody seemed to be talking at once, and about half of the people present were on the verge of yelling. Did they know about the huge meteor? Or just the first, smaller one?
Heart pounding, Xerxes rushed to the side of the room and pushed through the doors to the balcony. He looked up.
The massive meteor was still rolling through the air toward them, but it was closer. A lot closer.
Theres no time! Xerxes said. The mages in the chamber ignored him, so he yelled, HEY!
The urgency in his tone worked. Everyone in the room quieted and looked at him.
Gesturing toward the burning ball of fire that seemed cubits away, he said, Look.
He turned his attention back to the meteor, vaguely aware of others joining him on the balcony. His heart was in his throat. It wasnt going to hit the keep. But it was going toe close. And it was going to hit the city.
By the holy Pontifarch, someone murmured.
Its going to crush Garden Terrace! someone else said.
No. Not even close. Garden Heights, probably. Maybe the Great Promenade.
Should we ready troops? Therell be deaths. Fires.
Yes, Aban Saddi said. Have everyone gather in.
Xerxes stopped paying attention to the chatter. The meteor roared past the keep, so close that he was sure he felt the heat from the mes. Then it crashed into a neighborhood to the north. Garden Heights.
Some buildings were outright ttened. Others shattered. Bricks flew like confetti, splinters of wood exploded into the air, and congrations broke out left and right. The st from the initial impact was so intense that Xerxes quickly leaned his sword against the rail and mped his hands over his ears, but it didnt do much good.
Garden Heights wasnt as rich of a neighborhood as Garden Terrace, but it was considered a nice location. And though Xerxes had no love of stuffy rich folks, even he had a few friends who lived there. How many innocent people were already dead, and how many were dying?
Clouds of dust and debris spread out, intermixed with distant wails and screams.
GO NOW! Aban Saddi shouted. Ninsunu, take Xerxes and
Five white tendrils shot up from beneath the balcony and headed right toward the Head Mage.
Everything seemed to go in slow motion for Xerxes. He saw the tentacr things, then caught a whiff of the odor of the Abhorrent.
He jumped toward them. There was no time to cast a spell or even grab his sword. He couldnt let the Head Mystic get cut down in the middle of the keep. Shouting, he flew through the air and wrapped his arms around the five Abhorrent fingers.
He seeded, and they failed to reach the Head Mage. Gripping the writhing things as tightly as possible, he dropped into a side roll. With shouts of rm rising up around him, he felt the fingers straining against him like immensely strong worms. He pulled them tightly against his torso. Then, righting himself, he tugged them across his shoulder and pulled forward with all his might.
The fingers tensed and struggled to rip free, but he dug his fingers in tightly and continued pulling. A mounting howl built behind him, and he felt like he was drowning in the disgusting odor. Bile gurgled in the depths of his throat, until he was sure he was going to vomit.
NO. Growling to resist the gag reflex, he kept pulling.
A finger slipped free.
Shit, he thought, knowing that it could circle around and stab him in a vital spot.
Then he saw a sh of light off to the side, and realized his father was there, and hed cast Singr Lethality.
Be careful, Dad! he said. They can stab you!
The howl behind him built into a crescendo as he forced himself to take two steps forward. Then he lurched another two steps as the fingers went ck. For a brief moment he rejoiced, thinking the Abhorrent had been in. Until he realized it hadnt. Instead, it had let itself be dragged up the balcony.
He let go of the fingers, spun, and put his hand on hisponent pouch. Before he could cast his spell, Ninsunu barrelled past him, having transformed into another bestial form, this one with red, leathery skin and long ck ws.
The Abhorrent didnt stand a chance. Ninsunu grabbed the creature, lifted it over her shoulder, and threw it off the balcony.
A shriek trailed behind it for about four seconds, then abruptly stopped.
Ninsunu leaned over the balcony railing. More areing up, she growled.
Aban Saddi walked past Xerxes to join Ninsunu. He had his spellponent pouch loosened, and Xerxes could hear the clink of ss vials within.
The Head Mage didnt need to cast any spell. Though a group of about seven or eight spider-like Abhorrent spawn were climbing up the side of the keep, they were no match for the transformed Ninsunu, Xerxes father, and the other mages.
However, even as thest of the bodies dropped, a roaring noise echoed out over the city that, at first, seemed impossible to identify. But as it stretched out, turning sharper and more high-pitched, Xerxes realized what it was. The cry of a living creature.
An Abhorrent.
Stepping to the very edge of the balcony, he craned his neck to look in the direction where it seemed the noise came from, but his line of sight was obscured by the edge of the keep.
What is it? Satahsusar asked. That sound?
Its an Abhorrent, Xerxes answered reflexively.
Chapter 24: Taking the Fight To Them (2)
Chapter 24: Taking the Fight To Them (2)
Thats obvious, boy, Satahsusar snapped. I meant what kind. Head Mage?
The roar echoed out across the city again.
Aban Saddi leaned out over the railing, hoping to catch a glimpse of the creature in question. I doubt its anything less than a mid-level juvenile. Probably something stronger.
Can we deal with something like that? someone said.
I knew we should have contacted Humusi, another voice added.
Aban Saddi hesitated. No use second-guessing ourselves. We have to do something about this. Now. Come!
The Head Mage began running, and everyone followed, though he was significantly faster. They went down a set of stairs, across a hall to another balcony. As they burst out into the open, Xerxes heard several gasps of rm. He almost joined them, but managed to keep his mouth shut.
Looming near the city wall a quarter-league away, partially obscured by the dust clouds and smoke, was a hulking creature that made all the Abhorrent hed seen up to this point seem like childrens puppets. This beast was thrice as tall as any of the surrounding buildings, and looked like an ape with an elephantine head, except with three trunks and six tusks that curved up into sharp points. It was covered with long, reddish fur, as well as a cloud of what looked like flies, although given the distance, Xerxes guessed they might be bats or birds.
Holy Pontifarch, Seer Fale breathed.
The gigantic Abhorrent roared a third time, then crouched briefly beforeunching into a jump. It sailed high, above the tops of the rooftops, giving everyone a view of its wed appendages before it smashed into a building. The structure copsed, sending up more dust and debris into the clouds that already hung over the city.
That jump is probably a power, Gandash said. Something that big shouldnt be able to do that.
How do we fight it? Ninsunu said, her voice deep because of her transformation.
W-we stammered Aban Saddi, we.
Have Colonel Nur-Ayya set up the ballistae to the top of the keep, Gandash suggested.
A shadow of a grin appeared on Xerxes face, despite the gravity of the situation. Thats right, Gandy, you tell them what to do.
Maybe all of his friend''s hours spent reading magical textbooks and military treatises would finallye in handy. The fact that someone as young as Gandash was so collected seemed to act like a ssh of cold water to the face of Aban Saddi.
Right, he said. Have the Colonel array ballistae and archers on the keep. Seer Gandash, can you see to that?
Absolutely, Gandash said, and he raced off.
Nasaru mages should be with the ballistae, Aban Saddi continued. Send them
Alwin was our only Nasaru mage, Fale interrupted.
Fuck! the Head Mage cursed. Sinitu and Asgagu wont be of much help against something that massive. And we lost our only Btu mage before all this started.
Sir, Xerxes said, you are probably our best weapon.
Thats right. The Head Mage thought for a moment before setting his jaw. In that case, the course of action is obvious. Ninsunu, Xerxes, Ataneedusu, youre going to be my escorts. No soldiers, theyll just slow us down. Well go through the streets and try to remain unseen. Get as close to that thing as possible. Maybe Fand Bridge. Or Deer Park. Ill cast Abhorrent Duo. If were lucky, it might only be a low-level juvenile, in which case Ill be able to summon something of simr strength. Everyone else, support Gandash and Colonel Nur-Ayya. Lets go.
He started running, not waiting for any word of confirmation. Xerxes followed, as did the other mages who had been mentioned.
Of course, the Head Mage was a Mystic, and had a much greater top speed than Seers or High Seers. But he set a pace that allowed all of them to stay close. They sped out of the keep, through the gates, into the city streets, and straight toward the massive Abhorrent.
Despite all of the insane things that had happened in the past few days, Xerxes almost couldnt believe he was doing this. Running toward a building-sized monster that could probably kill him casually?
If you want everyone to believe youre worth being a mage, you have to do this.
Another roar swept through the streets, and they were close enough this time that it hurt Xerxes ears. Then he saw a blur of motion as the Abhorrent again jumped into the air before crashing into another building. This time, it was only a few blocks away, and Xerxes felt the ground shake as the creaturended.
Deer Park is that way! Aban Saddi said. Thats where Ill cast my spell.
He veered to the left, and Xerxes and the others followed. They ran down half a block, sped through an alley, then sped across more paved streets before bursting into an expanse of green grass and spindly trees.
From here they had a perfect view of the gigantic Abhorrent some several blocks down. It was breathing heavily, its fur undting either from the wind or the movement of its own body. It was now possible to see that it was surrounded by a cloud of flying creatures that looked like a mix between spiders and bats. Just barely, Xerxes could make out a noxious stench.
The Head Mage pulled out a vial, popped the cork, and poured the contents into his palm. Xerxes wasnt sure exactly what theponent was, but like all Buhhuponents, its foundation was Abhorrent blood. It stank, but the smell was different from the blisterscale reduction Gandash had used.
Before Aban Saddi could start tracing out the Buhhu Sebum rune, Xerxes noticed something off to the side. Movement. Paleness.
He looked over to see a many-legged Abhorrent spawn in the shadows of a nearby alley.
We gotpany, he said, entering the Skyward guard stance with his sword.
Aban Saddi looked over. Its only a single one. Cover me while I cast the spell. He put his right finger above his left palm.
Xerxes kept his eyes on the Abhorrent spawn as he took a step toward it. Compared to therger females hed fought, or the gigantic furred creature ahead, this thing didnt scare him. Cut it badly enough, and it would die.
He took another step toward it.
Theres another over here, his father said. No, two.
Chapter 25: Like a Sacrifice (1)
Chapter 25: Like a Sacrifice (1)
Keep them away from me, Aban Saddi said.
Xerxes leapt forward, using a master cut called the Squinting sh to alter his angle of attack at thest moment and skewer the Abhorrent. It squealed and lunged back, allowing him to bring his sword up again. Then he swung it down in a somewhat inelegant move that clove the creature in two.
Wrenching his de out of the gore, he turned to see his fathers right fist glowing brightly as he threw an experimental blow at an Abhorrent.
Aban Saddi was still working on his spell, and Ninsunu stood there with her bestial hands clenched into fists.
His fathers first blow missed, but the secondnded, punching a hole into the creatures head area. Meanwhile, the second Abhorrent near his father was circling around to get an angle of attack.
Xerxes dashed toward his father, arrived a momentter and immediately targeting the second spider-like beast. Leading with a kick, he followed with a downward sword strike. The blow wasnt clean, and got stuck in the Abhorrent. When the thing jerked away, Xerxes nearly lost his grip on his weapon.
mming his foot into the beast next to where the de was stuck, he wrenched the sword free and then made a stabbing attack. The creature dropped.
Next to him, his father had dispatched the other Abhorrent.
Dad, look, Xerxes said, gesturing with his chin. Four more of the things had climbed out of nearby alleys. Three were small, like the ones theyd just killed, but one wasrger, with the disturbing face-like head.
Were not out of the woods yet, his father said.
Ill take the big one.
Xerxes wondered what the hell Ninsunu was doing just standing around, but there wasnt time to spend too much thought on it. Apparently, Aban Saddi waspletely focused on his own spellcasting. Buhhu spells clearly took time to cast.
Xerxes ran to intercept therger of the iing Abhorrent, while his father faced off with one of the smaller versions.
Not wanting to waste any time, Xerxes went in for a killing blow. However, the creature reared up to avoid the de, and his attack went wide. He immediately redirected his sword, not stopping his momentum. Stepping slightly left, he avoided the swipe of the things legs and grinned as the tip of his sword found flesh.
Before the creature could even hiss, he shoved the sword hard, causing it to stab deeply into the Abhorrent.
Get ready! Aban Saddi shouted. Once I summon the juveniles, I cant afford any distractions. If I
All of a sudden, Ninsunu lunged toward Aban Saddi, tackling him in a bear hug.
What? he shouted as they fell to the ground together.
Xerxes twisted and shed, ripping the Abhorrent apart, then jumped back to gauge the situation. Why had Ninsunu knocked the Head Mage down? Had a bigger threat arrived?
He saw Ninsunu in her bestial form on top of Aban Saddi. He saw his father trying tond a clean blow on one of the three Abhorrent that were slowly surrounding him. He saw more spidery Abhorrent crawling out of alleys toward them.
Off in the distance, the massive trunked monster was looking in their direction.
What was going on?
Nina, what what are you doing? Aban Saddi shouted, his voice muffled.
Xerxes eyes were transfixed on the massive Abhorrent as it turned its shoulders, then took a step in their direction. As it did, the flying creatures around it swirled to gather in front of its face, creating a clump of darkness. Then a sphere, which pulsed out, then in, and suddenly Xerxes had a very bad feeling.
Dad, watch out! he said, just as the ck sphere turned into a beam of darkness that shot toward them.
Xerxes jumped to the side, though it wasnt necessary, as the beam didnte close to his position. Nor did it get close to Aban Saddi and Ninsunu. Instead, it mmed into the spot where his father had been standing seconds before. A loud buzzing sound filled the air as the beam melted a furrow in the stone for about two seconds before vanishing.
Dad! he yelled.
Im fine! his father responded.
He saw Ninsunu getting to her feet. Further back, he saw that the cloud of creatures around the Abhorrent was significantly thinner.
We need to move! Xerxes said. In the back of his mind, he realized that Aban Saddis spellcasting had been interrupted. The Head Mystic surely had more spellcastingponents on hand, but what about his supply of mm? Buhhu mages needed to expend massive amounts of it to cast spells, and if Aban Saddi had gotten to the final stages of spellcasting before being interrupted, he could theoretically have wasted too much mm to be able to cast another spell.
However, as Ninsunu stood up, Xerxes heart dropped.
The Head Mage, the only Mystic on Mannemid and the strongest mage they had, hung limp in Ninsunus arms. At first nce, Xerxes thought that perhaps the Head Mage had hit his head in the fall, and had been knocked unconscious. But the man had spoken twice after being knocked down.
No, Ninsunu was holding Aban Saddi the way a wrestler would hold an incapacitated opponent. Xerxes had training in martial arts, and though he didnt consider himself particrly proficient in grappling, he knew a thing or two. And Ninsunu was definitely using a chokehold.
Given that she was a High Seer, she didnt have the same level of physical strength and toughness as Aban Saddi. However, the shapeshifting abilities of Sinitu mages could provide an edge in that regard. Besides, a chokehold was a chokehold, and if administered properly, could easily be used by a weakerbatant to quickly neutralize a stronger one.
From what Xerxes could see thats what was happening here.
Nina he said, unsure of what was ying out.
Ignoring him, she bounded forward three steps, then nted her foot and leaped into the air, sailing up to stand on the rooftop at the end of the park.
Ninsunu raised her voice and shouted, Ya sath Syhahlwnafhoth!
The words meant nothing to Xerxes, but the mere sound of them caused a chill to run down his spine.
Theres no way, he thought.
Chapter 25: Like a Sacrifice (2)
Chapter 25: Like a Sacrifice (2)
What did she just say? his father asked.
Snapping out of his reverie, Xerxes looked over and realized that the small Abhorrent which had been closing in on them were currently standing motionless.
He looked back at Ninsunu on the rooftop. She was now holding Aban Saddi up in front of her, with one hand around the back of his neck.
Beyond her, the massive Abhorrent was merely staring, presumably at Ninsunu.
She just spoke thenguage of the Abhorrent, Xerxes said.
What? Ataneedusu blurted.
The reality of the situation hit Xerxes like a wave of cold water. Shes a cultist, he said. He wasnt sure exactly how he knew, or how it even made sense. But it was the reality of the situation.
By the Monad, his father murmured.
Meanwhile, the gigantic Abhorrent responded to Ninsunu in the samenguage shed just spoken. However, its voice was so deep and resonant that Xerxes felt like his bones vibrated in response. Of course, he understood none of the words, although he was half-sure he heard mm.
Ninsunu spoke in response, beginning a short conversation. A momentter, the Abhorrent around them stirred.
We have to do something, Ataneedusu said. If Ninsunu is a cultist, and she has Aban Saddi.
But do what? Xerxes asked. He nced at the nearby Abhorrent, who were still motionless. Neither of us is strong enough! And we cant make ranged attacks.
His father reached into hisponent pouch and pulled out a handful of crabnickel powder. It doesnt matter. We have to do something.
Xerxes shifted stances so that his sword was over his shoulder. I have better range with my weapon. I might be able to take her out before she knows Iming.
Before either of them could say anything more, the gigantic Abhorrent snorted something in his disturbingnguage, thenunched into the air, flying in a neat arc before crashing to the ground just in front of the building upon which Ninsunu stood. Clouds of dust and rubble rose up as she held Aban Saddi out further in front of her. A vomitous aroma filled the area, which Xerxes bit his lip in an attempt to stop thinking about. At the same time, the flying creatures around the Abhorrent seemed to be getting denser. How long until it could unleash that ck beam again?
Son, are you sure
Im sure, Dad. And without another word, he started running.
One shot, he thought. At the same time, all of his experiences in the past weeks ran together in his mind. The fight with Biru. The time he tried to sneak up on Master Ligish from behind. The terrifying, bloody melee with the Abhorrent on the bridge.
Lessons hed learned, both consciously and subconsciously, swirled together as he formted his n. Where he would nt his feet. How he would jump. The way he would hold his de.
There really would only be one chance to get it right. And if he failed he would probably die. He kept his sword in the Skyward position as he took his first step.
While dust continued to gently rain down, the gigantic Abhorrent said another set of words in its disgustingnguage.
Grk baya mm.
Xerxes dashed forward, jusing a park bench as aunching point to get onto a rooftop.
That was when he saw Ninsunu pull the unconscious Aban Saddi back, not as if to remove him from the presence of the massive Abhorrent, but more as if she were getting ready to throw him.
Oh no, he thought. His view was cut off by a building. He scrambled up the wall and onto the rooftop. Now, he was a level above his target.
At the same time, Ninsunu hurled Aban Saddis limp form toward the gigantic Abhorrent.
Fuck. He elerated and then jumped off the rooftop. He didnt have time to consider how to save Aban Saddi. At least, not yet. He started swinging his sword in a basic attack. Not any sort of a special move. As long as Ninsunu didnt realize what was happening, it would be devastating.
He sailed through the air toward her, and Aban Saddi flopped toward the Abhorrent.
The de of Xerxes longsword dripped dark blood and gore as it closed the distance, heading toward Ninsunus right shoulder.
The goal of the most basic sword strike, as Xerxes understood it, was to cleave the opponent in half through the heart. In training, sparring, andbat, an opponent would obviously attempt to block or parry any ordinary strike. But in this case, Ninsunus back was to him.
Theres no way this is going to work, he thought, and he kept himself ready to disengage and attack from a different angle, or perhaps abort the attack entirely.
The fur on the gigantic Abhorrents massive arm rippled as it extended its ws fingers toward Aban Saddi.
Xerxes closed in on Ninsunu.
The Abhorrents fingers wrapped around the Head Mage, but at the same time, its eyes shifted as it seemed to notice Xerxes.
Xerxes de was inches from Ninsunus neck.
Its not going to work, he thought. She would duck at thest moment, then spin to punch him in the gut. Or lean forward and kick her foot back. Something. She couldnt be so arrogant as to havepletely ignored the two Seers behind her. All that wasnt to mention the fact there was a massive monster looking right at Xerxes.
The Abhorrent pulled the Head Mage toward him, and if it did intend to do something about Xerxes, it apparently didnt have time. Xerxes sword hit Ninsunu. It clove through her bestial fur, burying itself into her neck and slicing into her torso.
A spray of bloodnded on his face as his sword cut through flesh, muscle, and backed by the immense strength of a Seer bone. He felt the shudder as the steel severed her spine, and continued another inch or two before lodging firmly somewhere in her rib cage. He was fairly certain that, if she hadnt been in her transformed state, he would have cut her clean in half. In any case, she was dead now.
The momentum of his jump kept him going, and he tumbled forward, over Ninsunus corpse, which was already reverting to human form. He lost his grip on his sword in the process and left it behind as he rolled, before skidding to a stop in the rooftop gravel.
Looking back, he expected a queasy feeling to rise from the pit of his stomach at the sight of blood-drenched Ninsunu. Instead, all he felt was disgust. Not at himself, but at her, for speaking thenguage of the Abhorrents, and for offering Aban Saddi up like a sacrifice.
Aban Saddi.
There was still a chance to save him.
Xerxes turned and looked for the Head Mage.
But all he saw was the giant, wed fingers of the massive Abhorrent speeding directly toward his own current position.
Chapter 26: Dead in Ten Minutes (1)
Chapter 26: Dead in Ten Minutes (1)
With the cloying stench of the Abhorrent surrounding him, and the creature seemingly trying to snatch him off the rooftop, Xerxes scrambled backward. By chance, his hand brushed the hilt of his sword.
Grabbing it, he got to one knee and jerked it away. He expected it to stick stubbornly in Ninsunus bones, but it didnt. Blood gurgled as it dislodged from High Seers body, which came as such a surprise that he nearly fell. However, his feet somehow stayed under him, and he scrambled away, holding the sword out in the Longfacing position in front of him.
But what could his tiny sword do against this gigantic monster? As the cyclopean hands neared, he saw that the skin of the Abhorrent was leathery and gnarled, like an old tree. Would his sword even pierce it?
He backed up two more steps.
Oh. The Abhorrent wasnt reaching toward him.
The hand mmed onto Ninas corpse, and a momentter, the High Seer was gone.
Xerxes watched with wide eyes as the creature brought both mages, one dead, one unconscious, closer to its face. Deep in the back of his mind, Xerxes knew that Aban Saddi was alive. And even further in the depths of his psyche, he felt an urge to jump forward and try to save the man. But that tiny, prickling sensation died before it could trulye to life.
The monsters serpentine trunks writhed forward like wrinkled leeches andtched onto the mages, before beginning to pulsate slowly.
What the hell? Xerxes muttered.
He heard something to his side, and looked over to see his fathernd on the rooftop a few cubits away.
By the Monad, Ataneedusu said. Is it taking their mm?
His father was right. How had he not realized it the moment he saw the trunkstch onto them? The trunks seemed to be pulsing from the mages and to the creature itself. After all, when a mage died, their mm would disperse, but not immediately.
Dad, I think we need to get out of here.
But then what? his father asked. Think of how many people are in the city. Is it going to just kill them all?
I think it wants mages specifically, Xerxes said. Plus
Suddenly, from a rooftop some two or three hundred cubits away, a pair of spheres covered in ck slime whipped through the air and smacked into the gigantic Abhorrents shoulder. Another pair of spheres followed shortly after it.
Hissing sounds could be heard, and bits of steam began to seep out from the Abhorrent as corrosive mucus from the sphere-like creatures melted bits of its fur.
Looking over, Xerxes just barely made out a figure on the distant rooftop. Gandy, he said. Whered hee from?
Trunks still sucking at Ninsunu and Aban Saddi, the massive Abhorrent turned in Gandashs direction.
Is he out there alone? Ataneedusu said.
He was supposed to be overseeing the ballistae on the keep, Xerxes said. I dont see anyone around him.
Dammit, if hes got no backup, hes a sitting duck.
The massive Abhorrents trunk detached from Ninsunu, and he threw her body to the side, causing it to smack into the wall of a nearby building. It left a smear of blood as it subsequently dropped to the ground. Then the Abhorrent took a step in Gandashs direction, trailing a thin cloud of flying creatures.
Dad Xerxes said.
I know. Weve got to help him. Lets go.
His father started running, and he followed. Together they leaped from rooftop to rooftop, using their enhanced physical prowess as Seers to maintain as much speed as possible. However, they werent able to move very much faster than the Abhorrent.
Meanwhile, Gandash was backing away, but at the same time holding position, as the smaller Abhorrent spawn hed summoned continued to eat away at the gigantic Abhorrent.
There was no way Xerxes and his father would reach Gandash before the Abhorrent did.
Gandy, get out of there! Xerxes screamed, making a wild waving gesture.
Gandash looked in his direction then shouted, Go back to the keep!
The massive Abhorrent stopped walking, tossed Aban Saddis desated corpse aside, and turned yet again toward Xerxes and his father. They kept running, but that didnt stop the Abhorrent from shoving its wed hand in their direction.
Watch out, Xerk! Ataneedusu barked.
The hand smashed into the building they were running across, sending gravel spraying everywhere. Ataneedusu leaped into a forward roll, scraping through the gravel, while Xerxes skidded to a stop and simultaneously shed downward with his sword.
His de chopped through some of the beasts fur, but failed to pierce its tough skin.
The creature spoke, the words dripping with loathsome clicks and thrums, but Xerxes had no idea what it was saying. Then its hand was gone. As he ran forward and put his hand under his fathers arm to help him up, he looked over his shoulder and saw that the Abhorrent was still looking at them, and its hand was in motion.
Jump! he said, and half-dragged his father into a scramble toward the parapet. They barely reached it, jumping wildly into the air as the wed hand destroyed the building behind them. Theynded hard on the opposite rooftop, which had no gravel, but instead, simple wooden nks.
Xerxes tossed his sword aside, grabbed a handful of crabnickel powder, and started casting Singr Lethality.
What are you nning, Xerk? his father asked.
Im going to jump on its arm, he said. Then run up toward its head. Maybe I can punch directly into its brain.
Thats insane, his father said.
I dont see any other option. We have to kill it. Fast.
Mm swirled through him as he finished tracing the Asgagu Isten rune, and then his hand turned into pure power.
The Abhorrent let loose something like abination of a roar and augh, then shoved its hand in his direction.
Son, you
Dad, theres no choice. You get Gandash out of here, Ill catch up.
The Abhorrents hand elerated, and Xerxes crouched slightly, then broke into a run.
Gotta time this right, he thought. But I can do it.
Chapter 26: Dead in Ten Minutes (2)
Chapter 26: Dead in Ten Minutes (2)
nting his foot on the parapet just as the hand was about to smash into the building, he jumped, simultaneously unleashing a wild shout.
His half-battlecry half-scream echoed across the rooftops as his feet made contact. Hednded on the Abhorrents wrist.
Ha! he shouted, then started running up the creatures limb. The shaggy fur felt like thick grass as he bounded up the forearm and relied on momentum to carry him toward the things shoulder. He batted aside one of the bizarre flying creatures, then vaporized another with his burning hand.
He clenched his hand into a fist and prepared to jump up to the things face. What about the trunks? The tusks? What about its magical power? Was it ready to be unleashed again? What if
The Abhorrent jerked its shoulder like a human trying to dislodge a bug that hadnded on it.
Xerxes nted his foot incorrectly, and his ankle twisted. Then a massive hand swept toward him, as if that same human were also trying to swat the bug off of it.
Whether it was for better or worse, the hand never hit, as he started falling.
Oh shiiiiiii
He saw the tree-lined stone street rushing toward him, then everything went ck.
**
When his eyes opened, an unfamiliar face loomed over him. A human face, belonging to a somewhat pudgy young man with light brown hair. Beyond the face were the trees.
You woke up quickly, the young man said. Youre lucky the trees broke your fall. That was stupid, what you did. Stupid but brave. I gotta admit, Im impressed.
He extended a hand toward Xerxes.
Xerxes took it and allowed the young man to pull him up.
His head hurt a bit, and he felt dizzy.
Who are you? he asked.
The young man wore clothing that looked finer than the type worn by even the most well-known and famous mages on Mannemid. Ovepping garments of ck and violet, with a golden girdle, a silver headband, and jewel-encrusted bracers. Most noteworthy of all to Xerxes was the hilt of the sword strapped to his back. It was a very long hilt, and given how high it protruded, it could only be a longsword. Definitely not the type of bronze weapon used by natives of this.
Im Purattu, from Ku-Aya. Here. Purattu extended his other hand, and Xerxes saw his own battered longsword in it, held toward him, hilt-first.
He took his longsword. What? How?
Take it, Ill exinter. First I need to put that bastard Abhorrent down.
Looking past Purattus shoulder, Xerxes saw the back and shoulders of the enormous monster, roaring and iling its arms.
This way, Purattu said, and he started jogging toward a nearby alley.
Xerxes followed. Youre from Ku-Aya?
Yeah. Im the backup they sent to help with this invasion. By the way, where the hell did you get that longsword? I didnt think people in the less lower starisles even knew about the Epitome.
Xerxes wasnt sure what the Epitome was, but he didnt want to reveal his ignorance. I got it from my Master. He teaches the sword to a few of us.
A follower of the Epitome, here on lowly Mannemid. Interesting. This way.
Purattu dashed into an alleyway, then picked up speed so rapidly that Xerxes immediately fell behind. In fact, Purattu moved so quickly that he started running up the wall beforeunching himself into the air and disappearing onto the rooftop ahead.
Hes so fast, Xerxes thought. He must be higher than the Mystic level. Is he a High Mystic? An Archon?
Pushing forward with as much speed as possible, he jumped onto a small storage shed built into the side of a wall, then leaped even higher, grabbing the rooftop parapet and then scrambling over it.
There, he saw Purattu unstrapping his sword. Xerxes had never seen a sheath mechanism like the one Purattu had. It had at least three straps that allowed the sword to remain firmly in ce behind him, and the sheath itself seemed specially designed to allow the sword to be drawn easily from the back.
Further beyond, Xerxes saw the gigantic Abhorrent iling its arms at forces obscured by its own bulk. He did catch sight of some arrows flying, as well as some javelins.
Perfect, Purattu said. The stupid brute has no idea Im here.
When the sheath mechanism was off, he quickly wrapped the straps around it and then half-turned toward Xerxes.
Hold my sword whats your name? He tossed the sheathed weapon.
Xerxes caught it. Xerxes son of Ataneedusu.
Okay, Xerxes. Keep that sword safe. Dont draw it, understand? Theres a protective spell formation inside. Im going to go kill this damned Abhorrent. Wait until I get back.
Not waiting for a confirmation, he started running across the rooftop, while simultaneously reaching toward a velvetponent pouch on his belt.
Xerxes nced down at Purattus sword and the strapping mechanism. He smelled leather and oil, and saw the glint of expensive metals. Without even being able to see the steel of the de, he knew that this sword was vastly superior even to the sword hed found in that shop in Kisiga.
Looking back up, he saw Purattu casting a spell while simultaneously elerating. He jumped, sailing through the air with the grace of a bird. Then hended on the massive Abhorrents shoulder.
The giant didnt seem to notice his presence. Purattu flitted forward, then lifted his right hand back and above his head.
That was when Xerxes noticed a faint darkness to the hand, as though it emanated, not light, but shadows.
Purattu pped his hand onto the back of the Abhorrents head, then backflipped and pushed off. Twirling, he thennded on a nearby rooftop. Less than ten secondster, he was back with Xerxes.
Sword, he said.
Right, sir, Xeres replied, handing it to him.
Just call me Purattu. No need for that sir business. He started strapping the sword back onto himself. Can you help me with this buckle here?
Xerxes stepped forward and helped him, while simultaneously looking nervously over at the gigantic Abhorrent. It was still swiping its arms at whatever force of soldiers was assailing it from the other side of the city.
Purattu tightened the straps and adjusted some buckles. Alright, thats good. I guess I could have kept the thing on, but you never know what might happen in a fight with a monster like that. Not that I have much experience in that regard. Well, nobody does, really. He gave a final tug to one of the straps. I suppose that big building over there is Mannemids headquarters?
Xerxes followed his gaze to the keep off in the distance.
Yes, thats the keep, Xerxes said. Where the king lives. And its where the Mage Parliament is right now. Except, the Head Mage just got killed.
Aban Saddi? Dead already? Must have been pretty useless. He started walking to the edge of the roof, and when Xerxes remained standing in ce, he looked back. Are youing?
Xerxes looked at the massive Abhorrent. But, arent you going to.
To what?
Do something about that thing?
Purattu snorted. That thingll be dead in ten minutes. My other people will keep it upied until then. Dont worry. No more innocent lives are going to be lost. Come on.
Chapter 27: Restructuring (1)
Chapter 27: Restructuring (1)
Purattu hopped off the rooftop and to the street below. Xerxes followed, trying to break down the meaning of Purattus words. He had simply touched the Abhorrent, and now imed it would be dead in minutes?
What spell had he cast? If only Gandash were here to ask; he was was a breathing encyclopedia. That would certainly save some time. Instead, Xerxes went through all the spells that a High Mystic could conceivably use.
There were six orders of magic: Nasaru, Asgagu, Btu, Sinitu, Hasasu, Buhhu.
A Seer could cast one spell from a given order. But once they reached the High Seer level, things changed significantly. They had two additional spells they could theoretically master. A Mystic had three beyond that, and a High Mystic four. In other words, a Mystic had ess to a total of six spells they could learn and potentially cast, and a High Mystic had ten. Simple math indicated that, including all the orders of magic, there were sixty spells Purattu could have cast, assuming he was a High Mystic.
It wasnt too difficult to narrow down the possibilities in terms of which order of magic he specialized in. Nasaru was the magic of defense and shielding, and obviously Purattu hadnt used any spell like that. Asgagu was forbat, and Xerxes knew lots about that order. Whatever spell had been used wasnt from the Asgagu order.
It wasnt a conjuring, so Buhhu was out.
Hasasu? The magic of mind-reading and divination? No, that didnt make sense. Hasasu couldnt really be used inbat. Sinitu? No, there hadnt been any sort of transformations or transmutations involved.
That left Btu.
Of course, he thought. The Btu order initially focused on healing, but that wasnt all it was limited to. As hed been taught in sses, healing was considered the restoration of life. Btu mages could also take life away. There were no Btu mages on Mannemid who could cast spells of that level, but that didnt mean they didnt exist.
He had his answer.
Purattu had to be a High Mystic of the Btu order. Unless he was an Archon. But what was the exact spell he had cast?
Xerxes resolved to ask Gandash as soon as he could.
Purattu was now strolling down the street as though he were out for a casual walk. After hurrying to catch up, Xerxes couldnt help but look over his shoulder at the hulking Abhorrent, which was still visible over the rooftops. He could still hear its roars, as well as indistinct shouting. Who exactly was fighting the thing? Who had Purattu brought with him? Soldiers? Or other mages?
Youre from here? Purattu asked. Like, this exact city?
Born and raised, Xerxes said, turning his attention away from the fighting.
Ever been off?
Nope.
Well, youre about to.
Xerxes blinked. Excuse me?
Purattu stopped at an intersection and looked around. Which way to the keep? Actually you just lead. Ill follow.
Oh, right. Um, this way. He turned right.
Anyway, Im taking you away from this ce. Orders from Sin-Amuhhu.
Sin-Amuhhu? Xerxes had to work hard to make sure his jaw didnt drop to his chest. He wasnt an expert in the structure of the starsea any more than he was proficient regarding every aspect of magic. But he did know his basic geography, including the fact that Sin-Amuhhu was a starisle so high and distant he couldnt even guess what it would be like to go there. As a brand new Sighted, hed asionally thought about what it would be like to go to such a location. But daydreams were daydreams.
Mannemid was a subsidiary starisle of Humusi. Humusi, in turn, was subsidiary to Ira. Ira was below Ku-Aya. And Ku-Aya was under Sin-Amuhhu. Xerxes home was literally worlds apart from that distant part of the starsea.
You heard me, Purattu said. The Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic is recruiting. Or rather, conscripting. And youre going there. The young mage looked at him with a faint grin. I guess thats what happens when the Abhorrent invade. People such as yourself get a chance that most mages only dream about.
People such as yourself? Xerxes echoed quietly, and it was only after the words left his mouth that he realized hed been speaking out loud.
Purattu looked at him. Mages from less- lower starisles, he said. Thats all I meant. Normally you can only get to top colleges by testing. Best of the best; that sort of thing. In this case, youre getting a free ride. Look, Im not the kind of person to beat around the bush, so Ill just tell you straight up. Im jealous.
Xerxes looked at the young mage with his jewel-encrusted weapon, his garments made of fine cloth, and his various expensive-looking outerments. As far as Xerxes was concerned, he didnt look like someone who needed to be jealous of anything.
I know what youre thinking, Purattu said. Im probably some stuck-up rich guy from a higher starisle, so what the hell do I know about being jealous? And youre probably right. They had reached another intersection, and in this case, it led into a broad thoroughfare that went straight to the keep.
I wasnt thinking that Xerxes said, except even he could tell how insincere the words sounded, so he chuckled. Ah, who am I trying to fool? Yeah. Thats pretty much what I was thinking.
To his surprise, Purattuughed, reached out, and sped his shoulder. I think Im starting to like you. With that, he stepped out into the street and started walking toward the keep. I think I can figure out the way to go from here. Before we get there, why dont you tell me who else on Mannemid I should take up to Sin-Amuhhu. Besides you. They only want Seers. Ones with potential.
A muffled boom reached Xerxes ears from the direction of the fight with the Abhorrent, and he reflexively looked over. What?
The giant creature was no longer visible above the buildings.
It probably fell, Purattu said. Instant Death is a great spell name, assuming you cast it on people. Its not exactly instant when used on giant monsters.
Of course, Xerxes thought. How could he have forgotten a cool spell name like Instant Death?
Itll kill a High Mystic like me in a minute or less, Purattu continued. Even a High Archon wontst for two. But a stage five juvenile Abhorrent, like that one back there, well they have a lot more life in them, so it takes longer. Even before they actually kick the bucket, though, theyll hit the ground and twitch for a while. Anyway, you were saying? About Seers?
Chapter 27: Restructuring (2)
Chapter 27: Restructuring (2)
Xerxes ran his hand through his hair. Right, Seers. Well there are quite a few on Mannemid. But not many are students. Are you specifically looking for students?
Yeah. Sin-Amuhhu doesnt want fogies whove fooled around for decades not making any progress.
Okay. Well, theres my friend Gandash. He was fighting the Abhorrent too, before I got knocked out.
Gandash? I met him. Your father, too, right before I came down for you. So this Gandash is your friend?
Gandy? Yeah, my best friend. We basically grew up together. Hes a lot smarter than me, to be honest. Realizing that he wasnt exactly talking himself up, he quickly continued, But hes not much of a fighter, if you know what I mean. Hes well, how should I put it?
Purattu chuckled. Yeah, I get it. Hes scrawny. A bookworm, I bet.
Yeah. Like that.
But hes a Buhhu mage, which is rare. So thats a big plus.
Yeah, Buhhu. Id definitely rmend him. Besides Gandy, some of the other young Seers are Visimar, whos Btu like you. Nidintu and Panya, who are both Asgagu mages like me. Gad, whos Nasaru. There are plenty more. Except none of them are here in the capital. Just about all the students at the Academy were given missions, so theyre out in the countryside. Or maybe even in Fal or Od.
Fal and Od, the other nations on this.
You know about them? Xerxes was surprised that a mage from such a distant and famous starisle would know so much about a ce like Mannemid.
I did my research, Purattu answered.
By this point, they were closing in on one of the keeps side gates. The soldiers there looked nervous, and had their weapons out and shields up.
Purattu stopped about fifty cubits from the gate. Do you know your way around the pce?
I know the generalyout. Thats about it.
Good enough. Im going to rely on you to do most of the talking at first. Can you handle the guards?
Sure. Xerxes stood a bit straighter. He, a mere Seer, was suddenly being promoted to a spokesperson for a mage from lofty Ku-Aya? The thought filled him with pride.
Good, Purattu said. Having someone talk for me will help maintain an aura of authority. Plus I wont have to ask for directions constantly. Take me to the main audience chamber, then arrange for all the mages in the city toe for a meeting. Can you handle that?
Absolutely.
As the mages filtered back to the keep, the glory Xerxes had envisioned came just as hed imagined.
Seer Nohem, he said to the man who was now the only other Buhhu mage on the besides Gandash. This is High Mystic Purattu of Ku-Aya, sent with the authority of Sin-Amuhhu backing him.
Greetings, High Mystic Purattu, Nohem said, bowing deeply.
Purattu gave a slight nod of acknowledgment but didnt say anything. He just stood there with his arms folded, looking at the view beyond the balcony.
Straightening up, Nohem looked at Xerxes with a slightly bowed head. Er, Seer Xerxes sir, is it true that Aban Saddi is no longer with us?
High Mystic Purattu will exin everything shortly.
Of course. Nohem ducked his head and backed away slightly.
High Seer Shehem was sufficiently cowed by Purattus lofty rank. But he clearly didnt like the idea of Xerxes being a spokesperson.
After the introductions were made, he red and said, Seer Xerxes, I was told by soldiers that you were knocked unconscious inbat, is that true?
Xerxes, feeling more confident than ever with Purattus favor, said, Yes, thats true, but
Shemesh interrupted with a harrumph. Perhaps you arent aware that the measure of sess in abat scenario is
What the fuck did you do? Purattu interrupted with a shout.
The entire room went silent, and Shemeshs face fell.
H-High Mystic Purattu, Shemesh stammered, I I um
Youre what, a Hasasu mage? Did you read the things mind? Did you look at the stars and figure out how to beat it? Or did you hide here in the castle like a bitch, waiting for everyone else to do the fighting for you? Huh? Well?
Shemesh was literally dumbstruck, and barely managed to stutter a few sybles of nonsensical gibberish before Purattu cut him off.
Kindly shut the fuck up, Purattu continued. And going forward, I dont want to hear anything from you, you useless idiot.
Xerxes looked over at Gandash, his eyes wide. His friend had a simr expression on his face.
Turning his attention away from Shemesh, Purattu said, Seer Xerxes, would you kindly arrange for the King of this nation toe? I dont want to discuss matters rting to his kingdom without him being personally present.
Xerxes hurried away, returning about ten minutester with the elderly King.
King Nabuhisnuisin, Purattu said, it is a true honor to be in your presence. Even in my home on Ku-Aya, I have heard of your wisdom and foresight.
The King chuckled. You tter me, High Mystic.
Its no ttery. Ive heard of the tripartite peace agreement you brokered with Fal and Od, as well as your efforts to quell piracy on your southern coast.
The King looked surprised. I had no idea Mannemid politics were a subject of interest in higher starisles.
Trust me, Your Majesty, your style of rule is a breath of fresh air, especiallypared to some idiot monarchs like the one in charge of, say, Ira. In any case, we have a lot of work to do. We should start with the corpse of the Abhorrent out there.
The gigantic Abhorrent had indeed shriveled into a desated corpse within minutes of Purattu hitting it with Instant Death, but they still needed to deal with the remains. And there were many other monstrous beasts left in the city, not to mention cultists. Purattu hadnt been exaggerating. There was a lot of work to do.
Chapter 27: Restructuring (3)
Chapter 27: Restructuring (3)
Two dayster, Gandashs parents hosted a feast at their manor in Garden Terrace. It was a small banquet, but a banquet nheless. Other than Xerxes family, the only guest present was Purattu.
I wish there was more time for you to say your goodbyes, Purattu said as they sat down to eat. But theres much work to be done. Ive been to Kartos, Erishti-Aya, and Nos, which means my work gathering Seers isnt even half done. Of course, you know that.
The off Seers were instrumental in purging the capital of monsters and cultists alike, Xerxes father exined for the benefit of the mothers, neither of whom were Sighted or did work rted to the government or military.
Purattu reached out to ept a goblet of wine from Xerxes mother. Thank you, maam. After taking a sip, he continued, Well be visiting Hannemid next. After that Jehannemid and Gehannemid. Well you get the picture. I need to keep moving. No time for rest and rxation.
Wepletely understand, Dumamu said. Looking fondly at his son, he said, Were all very proud that Gandash and Xerxes are getting this opportunity. Sin-Amuhhu, its its just incredible.
It is, Gandashs mother said. Although having spoken to many of the family members, I can tell you people are worried. What if the cultists wait until youre gone to make a move? Also what if more Abhorrent attack?
Valid concerns, maam, Purattu replied. But I wouldnt worry if I were you. We were thorough in tracking down the cultists. Though High Seer Ninsunu was one of them, we have no reason to suspect any of the other mages.
Except for Gad, Gandash said.
Gad? his mother asked.
Ninsunus apprentice, Dumamu said. He reached out to sp his wifes hand. Hes traveling in Fal right now. Well find him.
Besides, Purattu continued, a Seer cultist isnt anything to stay awake at night worrying about. As for any leftover Abhorrent, you can rest assured. From what I can tell, all the spawn and juveniles were sent down to make way for the big one. Now that its dead, the only ones left behind are runts the local mages and military can handle.
Xerxes and Gandashs parents had many questions, and Purattu answered them all patiently.
Whats Military Magic? Xerxes mother asked.
Purattu rubbed his chin. Good question. Its not like its a special type of magic. Having the term Military Magic in the name of the school is just a way to convey that the teaching is focused on military applications of magic. Not all mages fight on the battlefield, after all. In fact, most dont.
It wasnt until the meal reached its conclusion that the family members started to get emotional.
Dont go, Zokie, Ahassunu said, tears welling up in her eyes.
Xerxes pulled his sister into a hug. Ill be back soon. With some great dolphin jewelry from Sin-Amuhhu.
His mother hugged him harder than he remembered her ever hugging him. Youe back to me, she said. Promise?
He returned her hug. Promise.
The next day at the keep, after the morning prayer, there was a final bit of business that Purattu had to take care of. With Aban Saddi gone, there was a need for a new Head Mage. No one dared to nominate Shemesh, and all the other High Seers were away from the capital.
By the power vested in me by Archon Belu-Bani of Ku-Aya, I hereby appoint Dumamu son of Nidintulugal as the new Head Mage of Mannemid.
Just like that, Gandashs father became the most powerful figure on the. He still had years to go before he reached the High Seer level, much less the Mystic level, but that didnt matter. Purattu gave him a small gift of some jewels and medicinal pills, as well as a schematic for a spell formation he said would aid in meditation.
After that, there were some general formalities, and then Purattu led his group of conscripted Seers to the Gatewayplex. In the past, Xerxes would have been excited about the journey out of the capital, especially the small box of shekels his parents had given to him for spending money. But he felt like a different person now.
Given they werent being held back by Unsighted, Purattu had them make the trip on foot. What would have been a two-day trip on horseback only took a matter of hours for a group of Seers and a High Mystic.
Just before entering the Gateway to Humusi, Purattu said, Gandash, Xerxes, this is your first time, so be ready for some strange sensations. You might vomit on the other end. If so, dont feel embarrassed. It happened to me the first time.
Traveling through the Gateway was the strangest feeling Xerxes had ever experienced in his life. He felt surrounded by icy coldness, while at the same time, his insides seemed weightless. Visually, he knew that he was moving. He was in a tunnel with bright lights that flowed past him like multicolored river water. However, when he closed his eyes, he didnt feel like he was moving at all.
Purattu had been the first to step in, then a mage named Kashtiliash and a few others. By the time Xerxes entered, followed by Gandash, there were only one or two people ahead of him in the tunnel. Gandash was behind him, seemingly a huge distance away.
The entire process onlysted for about a minute. Then everything turned white, and he was ejected onto a wide tform that looked very simr to the tform hed strode across to enter the Gateway. The sensation was disorienting. He felt dizzy and slightly nauseous, to the point where it took some effort to prevent himself from vomiting.
Gandash came out a momentter, and he made a gagging sound, but also kept the contents of his stomach where they belonged.
Bellies of steel, eh? Purattu said. Impressive.
After all the mages had exited the Gateway tunnel, Purattu organized them into ranks, with one line behind Xerxes and the other behind Kashtiliash.
Is he putting me in charge or something? Xerxes thought.
During the days of activity on Mannemid, he had been introduced to all the other Seers in Purattus group. But even still, he hadnt memorized all their names, much less any detailed information about them.
Kashtiliash was obviously favored by Purattu, so Xerxes had made an effort to pay attention to him. He knew that the young man was an Asgagu mage who had been born in Ira but grew up in the starisles of Kartos. That was unusual. Normally speaking, mages sought to go up in the world, not the other way around, and Kartos, like Mannemid, was subsidiary to Humusi, which made it much lower than Ira.
Perhaps that was why Kashtiliash was so aloof. He rarely talked, and always seemed to be looking away from everyone else. That said, he had a beard that made Xerxes extremely envious; he kept it well-oiled and curled tightly. Combined with his skin, which was as dark as the shadows in the Yellow Wood, it made him seem imposing in a way that Xerxes couldnt even hope to imitate. Most mysterious of all was that he carried an unusually long traveling pack, as opposed to the smaller backpack-style bags that most of the other mages favored.
After their ranks were in order, they proceeded through Humusis Gatewayplex to another area where they went through the tunnel to Hannemid.
Chapter 28: Let’s Get Going (1)
Chapter 28: Let¡¯s Get Going (1)
Purattu paused before climbing the steps into the actualplex and looked back at the small group of Seers.
Remember, the situation could very well be bad, like it was when we arrived on Mannemid. We need to be ready to fight at a moments notice. Nobody get killed, alright? Thats thest thing I need, to have my conscripts dead before I get them back to Sin-Amuhhu.
If theres fighting, follow my orders without question and without hesitation. In my absence, listen to Xerxes or Kashtiliash.
If theres no fighting, well you still need to follow my orders. Well assess the Abhorrent situation, make sure its under control, then conscript the best Seers they have avable and nearby before continuing to the next starisle. We have a deadline to get back to Sin-Amuhhu and I want to beat it. Any questions?
There were none.
Xerxes expected Hannemid to bepletely exotic to him. In some ways it was. For instance, the climate was different than the city where Xerxes had grown up. Instead of it being dry and dusty, it obviously rained a lot. And when they stepped out, it seemed earlier than it should be. The sun was higher in the sky.
The architecture looked more like that in Harborview, except not as decrepit. However, in terms of the fashion, the art, the cut of the stones on the street, and numerous other small details, everything looked simr to Isin.
No massive Abhorrent invasion gued the city.
In fact, an investigation revealed that, as far as anyone could tell, the Abhorrent hadnt arrived on Hannemid at all. There hadnt been a single attack, nor any unusual meteor showers.
Purattu was obviously intent on moving as quickly as possible through the variouss. When they werent traveling, they were eating. When they werent eating, they were sleeping. Whenever they had a spare moment, he forced them to spend it in meditation or rune study. No conversation. No time for rxation. He did lead morning prayer on a regr basis, though. After a few such prayers, Xerxes noticed that Purattu never said Pontifarch, which was odd.
Theres no way hes a member of the One Faith, is there? he thought. There wasnt an opportunity to ask. Nor did Xerxes find a chance to ask Gandash about his opinion, or his thoughts on the whirlwind of events in general. There just wasnt time.
The constant activity also made it impossible to get to know the other Seers.
They conscripted some mages from the pool avable in the city surrounding the Gateway, then left for Jehannemid after only two days. Unlike the Gatewayplexes on Mannemid, Humusi, and Hannemid, all of which were surrounded by civilization, the Jehannemidplex was located amidst craggy mountains a good distance away from the nearest city. For Unsighted on horseback, the journey to the capital would have taken days. Moving at the speed of Seers, the trip went much faster.
Once out of the mountains and into civilization, they found that the Abhorrent had arrived even earlier than on Mannemid. However, there were no gigantic high-level juveniles.
Purattu and the Seers provided a bit of help cleaning out some of the remaining Abhorrent. It wasnt a particrly difficult task. There was no spellcasting involved, and Xerxes only used his sword once.
When the work was done, the Head Mage offered to hold a banquet in celebration. Xerxes expected Purattu to decline the offer, but he didnt. During the event, Purattu exined his conscription mission.
We would be honored to send our best and brightest with you, High Mystic Purattu, the Head Mage said.
Good, Purattu said. Before leaving, Id like to check the mage poption of your sister city, Puabi.
Er, thats probably not necessary. We here in the capital
Cut the bullshit, Purattu interrupted. I know theres political tension between the capital and Sheik Hatim. Has it escted into outright war?
Not war per se, but
So it has. You do know who Sheik Hatim is, right?
Of course. Hes the son-inw of K-Kingallu.
High Archon Kingallu of Sin-Amuhhu. I honestly cant believe you have the guts to openly sh with the family member of one of the most powerful mages in the Great Reef.
The Head Mage puffed his chest up. We arent shing with him, Ill have you know. Hes the one who
I dont care, Purattu interrupted. I just want to make sure Im taking the best Seers to Sin-Amuhhu, so Ill be heading over to Puabi tomorrow.
Its on the other side of the continent, some one hundred a fifty leagues away. The roads are winding, and if you go off them
Im a High Mystic, remember?
Right.
Ill leave first thing in the morning and be back before the dinner hour.
That meant that Xerxes and the other off-world mages had an actual free day.
Make the best use of it, Purattu said before disappearing.
What does that mean? said one of the mages theyd picked up on Hannemid.
Xerxes grinned. He didnt mention meditation or study. My guess is he wants us to loosen up a bit.
I dont know Gandash said.
Xerxes shoved his shoulder. Come on, Gandy. Lets just look around. Weve been going nonstop for days now.
I guess it wouldnt hurt.
All of the other mages followed suit.
As Xerxes donned his wide-brimmed cap and stepped out into the street, he suddenly found himself thinking about Bel. How long had it been since he dragged her out of the tavern in Kisiga on the fateful day when Gem died? ncing over, he saw an odd expression on Gandashs face and assumed simr thoughts were going through his head. Reaching down, he triple-checked that he had hisponent pouch, as well as a good knife. As for his sword, it was a bit too bulky to take along for a shopping trip. Besides, the city was well-patrolled by the local guard.
They spent the morning wandering the capital. It had its own characteristic ir, but was simr enough to Mannemid that they didnt feel out of ce.
Gandash bought some trinkets at a market. A ring. A letter opener. A piece of coral. Xerxes kept his eyes open for longswords and dolphin jewelry but didnt see any, so in the end, he saved his money.
Lets get something to eat, Xerxes said. Im famished.
We have to try some of those saffron ffels. Youve seen the signs, right?
Yeah. Saffron ffels were some sort of specialty in this city. And apparently, saffron was as pricey as it was back home. Theyre expensive though.
Come on, my treat.
Xerxes gritted his teeth but tried to smile. Its fine, Gandy. Ill pass. Lets save our money for when we get to Sin-Amuhhu.
Hmm fine.
Instead of the saffron ffels, they picked a street meat vendor with small tables set up by the side of the road. Just before selecting a table to sit at, Xerxes noticed a familiar face a few tables down.
Oh, hey! he said, rather loudly. Kashtiliash?
The bearded Seer was sitting there with his legs stretched out and his arms crossed. Upon hearing Xerxes greeting, he looked over and gave them a nod.
Chapter 28: Let’s Get Going (2)
Chapter 28: Let¡¯s Get Going (2)
Lets join him, Xerxes said quietly to Gandash.
He doesnt seem very friendly, Gandash replied.
Come on, hes just shy. Threading through the tables, Xerxes said, We Seers ought to stick together, eh?
Kashtiliash eyed him as he pulled a chair out and sat down. Sure.
Gandash followed and sat down. Hi, he said.
Kashtiliash shifted his eyes but didnt move his head. Gandash, right? He looked back at Xerxes. And Xerxes.
Thats us, Xerxes said. Did you order already?
Yes.
Xerxes waved at a nearby waiter. Whatever this guy ordered, add two portions!
The waiter barked an acknowledgment and hurried back toward the kitchen.
Hope you like spicy food, Kashtiliash said.
Of course! Xerxes said.
Gandash made a bit of a face but didnt say anything.
Xerxes leaned back in his chair. So youre from Before finishing the question, he recalled Kashtiliashs strange background, having been born on a higher starisle, but being raised in a lower one. It made Xerxes think of his own birthce, the rundown slum of Harborview, and how he preferred to avoid that topic. er, never mind that. Youre an Asgagu mage. Do you have a background in martial arts?
I do.
Xerxes smiled and nodded. Quite a conversationalist we have here, he thought.
Right about then, the waiter brought a gon of wine and three wooden cups. Kashtiliash distributed them and started pouring wine.
Xerxes took a long sip. This is turning awkward fast.
You fight with a longsword, right? Kashtiliash asked.
Xerxes ears perked up. Yeah. You know about longswords?
The bearded Seer nodded. Have you seen my pack?
Its big, Gandash said. At least three cubits in length. Made of brown canvas. Wrapped twice with hemp rope.
Kashtiliash looked at him. Very observant.
Gandash shrugged. I try to keep an eye on my surroundings.
Mm-hmm. Kashtiliash took a long sip of wine. Its big because it has a longsword in it.
What? Xerxes blurted. Are you serious?
I dont look serious?
Thats not what I meant.
Kashtiliash looked at him for a second or two. Yeah, I have a longsword. Didnt need the thing, so I didnt bring it out.
Thats incredible.
Want to cross swordster? Train a bit?
Xerxes heart swelled. Of course!
Around then, the waiter brought two traysden with tbread and skewered meat. The three mages ate for a short time in silence.
After devouring quite a bit of meat, and refilling his wine cup, Xerxes burped and said, What do you thinks going to happen on Gehannemid?
No clue, Kashtiliash said. A challenge would be nice.
I hope Gehannemid has nothing happening, Gandash said. That way we can get to Sin-Amuhhu faster.
Kashtiliash looked at him with an eyebrow raised.
Before they could continue the conversation, the cry of a hawker reached their ears from across the street.
Saffron ffels! Hot and fresh!
Gandash looked up eagerly. Xerk, I cant stand this. I have to try one.
Xerxes grinned wryly and shook his head. Go for it, Gandy.
You want one?
Nah, its fine.
Without another word, Gandash crossed the busy street to intercept the hawker.
Your friend must be rich, Kashtiliash said, sliding some more meat off a skewer.
Basically, Xerxes said. Jaw jutting a bit, he said, And he always seems to be unting it.
I had a friend like that back on Kartos.
Xerxes took a swallow of wine. Had?
Were not friends anymore.
Gandash returned with a rapturous expression on his face. You guys have no idea how amazing those things are. Here, I got one for each of you.
He put a saffron ffel on the table in front of each of the other mages.
Xerxes jaw twitched.
Kashtiliash looked at it. I prefer Kartos ffels.
Er okay, Gandash said, sliding back into his seat. What about you, Xerk? What do you think?
Xerxes ate the ffel and worked hard not to moan in delight. It was probably one of the most delicious things hed ever eaten. Its alright, he said. Overpriced, for sure.
Later that evening Purattu returned alone. No mages in that city are worth bringing along, he said. Well just take the ones the Head Mage provides.
When he heard that most of the Seers had explored the city, he chided all of them for wasting time. When I said to make the best use of the day, I didnt mean shopping and snacking! None of you have maxed out chambers. You should have been meditating! Or studying runes!
The next morning, the Head Mage brought three Seers to join Purattus party.
One of them was a heavy-set girl with droopy eyes and buck teeth. Xerxes eyes slid over her without pause.
The other two were far more eye-catching to him. It wasnt because of their physical appearance one was tall with a wide smile and a seemingly smaller-than-average head, the other was short, with thick hair and a long nose nor their clothing, which was ordinary in nature. It was the fact that both carried longswords.
They seemed to quickly notice the simr sword that he carried, and they both nodded to him from across the room.
Introductions were made. The three new mages were Jad, Enusat, and Inatli, although the names immediately fled Xerxes mind.
Purattu led everyone to the Gatewayplex. They went up to Humusi, then to Gehannemid.
Gandashs wish was fulfilled. There was no Abhorrent activity on either Gehannemid I or Gehannemid II. Neither had any clue there was an invasion going on. What was more, Purattu wasnt impressed with the mages there, and ended up only picking one Seer to join them.
They spent two days on each before leaving. As they all stepped out into the Humusi Gatewayplex, Purattu led them to a small public square.
Alright, runts, he said. Now were going to begin the most amazing journey of your lives. From here well go from Ira, and then to Ku-Aya, and finally to Sin-Amuhhu. Dont do anything embarrassing, or Ill kick you back down to whichever of these mudholes you came from. Maybe Ill even send you further down. Got it?
The assembled mages gave murmurs of agreement.
Good. Lets get going.
Chapter 29: Lives Changed Forever (1)
Chapter 29: Lives Changed Forever (1)
On Ira, there were multiple Gatewayplexes, so Purattu arranged for carriages to take them through the city. He had Kashtiliash and Xerxes ride with him, then had the other neen mages divide themselves as they saw fit between four additional carriages.
Once on the streets, Xerxes peered out and saw that the city was, disappointingly, very much like the other cities. Hed expected this higher starisle to have gigantic buildings ted with gold, or at least something like that. Granted, the city did seem to be bigger, and there were a few more towers and temples than back home.
Not impressed? Purattu asked.
Xerxes quickly wiped a frown from his face that he hadnt even realized had appeared. Well he said.
Iras a shithole, Kashtiliash said.
Purattu barked augh. Well, thats indeed what a lot of people say. Supposedly thest four or five kings in a row have been morons who care more about amassing harems and going hunting than running a government. Just wait until you see Ku-Aya and Sin-Amuhhu.
Youve been to Sin-Amuhhu? Xerxes asked reflexively, and immediately regretted it, as he remembered Purattu had openly stated he was jealous of their group for being assigned to a college there.
No, Purattu said, his nose ring slightly. But Ive heard a lot about it. Its definitely a step up from where I was raised. Andpared to where you twoe from, its like heavenpared to hell.
Trying not to think about what Purattus words implied about Mannemid, he looked back out at the city. The streets were packed. There were armed soldiers on patrol, rich folk with attendants holding parasols over them to shield them from the hot sun, beggars crouching in alleys, and street performers at all of the big intersections.
After a few minutes passed, Purattu said, Forget about the sights for a moment. I brought you two with me because, well, I like both of you. It was a surprise to find people who study the Epitome in less lower starisles, and thats why I put you in charge of the others. Id hoped to do a bit of training with you while we traveled, but there was never time.
Anyway, once you get to the Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic, dont expect any special treatment. Theyll assess you almost right away, and then use the results to split you into different groups. Some of you will end up aspany officers whomand both fellow mages and Unsighted troops. The rest will be put in with the regr troops.
I guess its better to be an officer? Xerxes asked.
Yes, Purattu said. If nothing else, the pay is better, and I know both of you had hard lives growing up.
Kashtiliash stiffened.
Hey, hey, Purattu continued, it wasnt meant as an insult. You want to know one thing that pisses me off? Its those shithead mages from rich families who use money to get ahead in the world. I hate people like that.
Kashtiliash seemed to loosen.
Purattu sighed. Its true Ie from a family with money. But my dadhes Unsighted by the wayhe grew up poor. He worked hard to get his fortune, and he forced me to do the same as a mage. I earned my way to where I am now, but not everybody is like that. Anyway, I have a proposition to make. Even though I havent been to Sin-Amuhhu, I know its a wild ce. There are rich fools there who would make me seem like a beggar. The cost of living is insane, and youll only have a stipend of two shekels a month from the Institute. That wont do much other than buy you a few extra meals on your days off. So Id like to offer each of you a loan.
Xerxes eyes flitted to Kashtiliash to gauge his reaction. The bearded mage was looking at him for the same reason.
He looked back toward Purattu. A loan? Not a gift?
Purattu pshawed. Gift? Are you kidding me? I wouldnt insult you that way. Im talking about a loan. No interest, at least not the money kind. You can pay me back after you graduate, or after you return from your first major mission and get paid.
Whats the catch? Kashtiliash asked. Theres no way youre just going to give us money out of the kindness of your heart.
Of course not. Youll owe me. A favor, I guess. I dont know, I havent really thought it through that deeply. The thing is that I can afford this and I want to do it. Help the two of you. Andter on, when youre High Mystics, Ill have two friends. In my belief, friends and allies are a lot more important than gold and silver.
Xerxes and Kashtiliash again exchanged a nce. Xerxes hated the way Gandash threw money around, but somehow this offer from Purattu felt different. It wasnt him unting his money, nor him pitying them.
How much? Xerxes asked.
Fifty shekels, Purattu said.
Xerxes nearly choked. His father barely made thirty shekels a month, at least before the Abhorrent invasion. Who knew how things might change with Gandashs father as the new Head Mage. In any case, his father and mother had nearly drained their savings to give him forty shekels of spending money upon leaving Mannemid, and he had considered that an enormous sum.
I cant Kashtiliash said, but Purattu cut him off.
Dont be dumb, the High Mystic said. This isnt charity, its a business deal. Use it to invest in a new sword. Better armor. Spellponents. Whatever. The point is that I help you get an edge, andter on down the line, you help me. Consider it the start of an alliance. When I be the Head Mage of Ku-Aya, Ill hire the two of you as advisers. And with that power base, well take on Sin-Amuhhu. Eventually, the entire Great Reef. One day, well all be Anunnaki!
Xerxes chuckled, and a momentter, Purattu joined him. Even Kashtiliash let out a snort that bordered onughter. The idea of the three of them taking over an entire major portion of the starsea was almostpletely ridiculous. And even more far-fetched was the idea of them bing immortal Anunnaki.
Well? Purattu asked. Deal?
A short silence followed, which was broken by Kashtiliash. Deal.
Xerxes grinned. Deal!
Chapter 29: Lives Changed Forever (2)
Chapter 29: Lives Changed Forever (2)
After Ira was Ku-Aya, which was Purattus home.
Ku-Aya was indeed much more impressive than anything Xerxes had seen on Ira, Humusi, or any of the lower starisles. All the buildings were taller. There were columns everywhere, some of which featured statues of fantastic creatures atop them, like winged lions or horses with horns. There were archways and temples, public squares and broad streets wider than thergest squares on Mannemid.
But most impressive of all was a mass of white and green rising up in the middle of the city.
Is that a mountain? he asked.
Nope, Purattu said. Behold the Hanging Gardens of Ku-Aya. You wont find anything like them in a lesser starisle, believe me.
It was a huge structure made from white stone, with ascending tiers of gardens. He saw trees, bushes, vines, and even what seemed to be entire fields, all on this massive man-made structure that hed originally mistaken for andform. Circling around it took a full hour, and there never seemed ack of interesting aspects of the ce to gaze upon. Immense sculptures. Waterfalls. Bridges.
Xerxes was so entranced he hardly noticed how long it took to reach their destination.
Eventually, he saw buildings outside the carriage, most of them two or three stories tall, surrounded by brick walls. Then he realized they were entering one suchpound. After they went through a set of outer gates, the carriage rolled to a halt.
As it turned out, it was a vi owned by the Ku-Aya Mage Parliament.
They were assigned rooms, with most mages being put with other mages from their own starisles. Xerxes and Gandash got a pair of bunks in a tiny room at the end of a hallway.
Not incredibly impressive, Gandash said.
Xerxes tossed his traveling pack onto the ground at the foot of the bed, and his sword onto the mattress. Better than the Academy dorms though. At least theres a timepiece.
True.
After dinner, Purattu told the mages they would spend the night and the following day in the vi while he gave a report about his mission and made arrangements for the final leg of their journey.
Dont leave thepound, Purattu said. I want you to spend the entire time in meditation. Get your chambers of energy as full as possible before we get to Sin-Amuhhu.
Xerxes was getting very behind on meditation. He still had yet to perform a second Flush. And given that he needed to do twelve total to reach the High Seer level, he knew he shouldnt be cking. Of course, there were some mages who were content to take years, decades even, to be a High Seer. There were even some who, because ofck of talent or initiative, never managed it. And that wasnt to mention the baffling limitations imposed by naturalw. But Xerxes knew that he had to be a High Seer.
Once he got to the Institute on Sin-Amuhhu, he needed to rise above his peers. If nothing else, he wanted to be ready to repay Purattu as early as possible. In fact, even though Purattu didnt want to charge interest, Xerxes was determined that he would provide interest with the repayment. That was what an honorable person should do. And he obviously couldnt do that if he didnt make some significant progress with his magic.
That evening, he focused fully on meditation, with the exception of about an hour studying the Asgagu Sebum rune.
The following day, he was equally as studious, to the point where he skipped lunch.
It was around the dinner hour when Purattu returned. As the mages gathered to eat, Purattu pulled Kashtiliash and Xerxes aside.
Here, he said, handing each of them acquered box. Fifty shekels each, as promised. I split them between gold and silver. He grinned. Dont spend it all in one ce.
After a light meal, they were back in the carriages and heading to the final Gatewayplex.
There were a lot more guards and soldiers, and more formalities. Purattu handled everything. There was only a short wait for carriages after they stepped out of the tunnel. Once on the streets of Sin-Amuhhu, Xerxes found himself yet again staring out the window.
The strangest thing was that when they left Ku-Aya, it was evening, but when they arrived at Sin-Amuhhu, it was morning. It turned out to be good, as the trip from the Gatewayplex to the school took many hours.
However amazing Ku-Aya was, this ce was even more impressive. The buildings were bigger and taller. The streets were wider. Everything was extremely clean. The paint was fresh. Some structures had gold, silver, and jewels embedded into them. Right on the street!
There were no beggars. What was more, everyone he saw on the street wore clothing of finespun cloth and even silk. And they seemedden with immense amounts of jewelry.
Even Purattu was craning his neck to take in the sights.
About two hourster, the carriages went through the gate of an enormous wall.
This is it, Purattu said. The Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic. Get ready for your lives to change forever.
As they stepped out of the carriages, they found a group of three uniformed individuals waiting, presumably staff or teachers. One of them led Purattu away to fill out forms. The other two took charge of the new arrivals.
What followed was a whirlwind of activity. The twenty-one mages were interviewed, took a medical examination, and provided some basic personal information. They were given new uniform robes of ovepping blue and white fabric, with girdles of ck leather, plus a strongbox for valuables.
Finally, they were assigned temporary quarters. Female mages and male mages were kept separate.
Youll stay here for a short time, they were told. After your assessment, youll likely be split up again.
By the time Xerxes and Gandash were finally able to sit on their cots and look each other in the eye, it was evening. They were both exhausted yet exhrated.
This is amazing, Xerxes said.
Gandash nodded. Yeah. I just wish Bel could be here to see it.
Yeah.
It felt like the right time to have a deep talk with Gandash, but Xerxes'' eyes were just too heavy, and he fell asleep.
Chapter 30: Red Hair (1)
Chapter 30: Red Hair (1)
The next morning, they found out there were other mages who had arrived before them. Their group consisted of Seers from the nine starisles subsidiary to Humusi. But Humusi was itself part of a set of starisles subsidiary to Ira. And apparently, High Mystic peers of Purattu had been sent to all of those other ces to recruit Seers. Five of the other groups had checked in. Four hadnt.
Even still, there were already well over a hundred conscripted Seers.
All of them were present for the morning assembly in the main courtyard. Xerxes saw a wide mix of individuals. There seemed to be a slight majority of males, but he wasntpletely sure. There were short and tall people. Fat and skinny. All sorts of hair colorsthe majority dark, but a few with lighter hair like Purattu, or even fair hair like people from Odand a host of different skinplexions. The only thing uniting all of them was that they were young.
The Humusi mages followed the example of the others and arranged themselves in ranks. Back home, the Academy had been a supposedly prestigious location. And yet, on the entire, there werent even fifty Seers total, with only a small portion of them being students at the Academy.
Seeing so many magic practitioners in one ce, Xerxes muttered, This is crazy.
I know, Gandash said. There are more mages here than on all of Mannemid. And were all students.
Neers from Humusi, wee, said a man who stood at a podium at the front of the square. It was the same gray-haired man from the day before. Im High Archon Kingallu, the headmaster of this school.
Xerxes mind spun. A High Archon? In his entire life, the most powerful mage he had ever known prior to meeting Purattu was Mystic Aban Saddi. He had always thought of Aban Saddi as an all-powerful expert, yet Purattu had killed a massive Abhorrent with a single spell. Butpared to a High Archon, lowly Mystics and High Mystics might as well be called weak.
Humusi Seers, the gray-haired man said, please pay close attention, as Ill give you a very brief summary of the situation, and what will happen today. All of the previous students at our establishment were deployed to deal with the Abhorrent invasion. Youve been brought here to form a new student body destined to be battlefield mages. We still dont know how the Abhorrent got from the Nightmare Cove to our part of the starsea, the Great Reef. Regardless, we need to have more qualified mages ready to fight the enemy.
We are still waiting for more Seers to arrive from Harmu, Sin-Masu, Al-Ga, and Dumusi. Those from Dumusi should be arriving sometime this morning. In the meantime, youll attend lectures before lunch and general training sses in the afternoon. You will devote evenings to rune study and meditation.
Once the other Seers arrive, assessments will be held to further identify your strengths and weaknesses. Until then
The sound of metal creaking interrupted the Archon, and all heads turned in the direction of the main gate.
As a group of carriages entered, Archon Kingallu said, Ah, the new recruits from Dumusi. Seers, turn and face the neers. Well greet them properly. Humusi Seers, ept our apologies for not offering you a simr greeting, but you arrivedte in the evening.
Xerxes turned along with the other Seers to face the neers. As the carriages trundled to a stop, he stood a bit straighter as he realized he would likely be one of the first people the new Seers saw. That was, until three of the school staff hurried out to meet the neers, simr to the way they had met the Humusi mages yesterday.
It didnt matter. Xerxes still felt proud to be part of this group. Yesterday, he had been a nobody, but now he was part of this new ss of Seers at the Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic. He didnt know a damn thing about how the school worked, but he was wearing the uniform and these new Seers werent.
sping his hands behind his back, he threw his chin up a bit and looked at the carriages.
The doors opened, and mages began to climb out. As expected, they were young. And of course, they were d in traveling clothes. There were men and women, with different skin tones and hair colors. But they all looked simr to average folk from Mannemid.
Then, something caught Xerxes eye. A sh of colorpletely different from anything else present.
Red.
It was a bright, fiery color that swirled out of one of the carriage doors, almost like a wisp of fire, or a swirl of leaves from the deepest part of autumn.
At first, Xerxes was confused. Then he realized the red color was someones hair. Fascinated, he focused on the person stepping out of the carriage, and realized it was a young woman. Her hair was alive around her, a crimson mass that caressed her shoulders and, at the same time, seemingly defied gravity as it floated around her. However, it obscured her face, such that Xerxes craned his neck in an attempt to glimpse her eyes.
As she stepped onto the paving stones of the courtyard, she brushed her hair aside, and he saw her face. She had a long, straight nose and pink lips that were curved into a permanent smile. He couldnt tell the color of her eyes from such a distance, but they were light. Perhaps blue. Regardless, in all his recent travels, he hadnt seen anyone else like her.
Im going to marry her, he thought. Even after the concept popped up in his mind, he didnt think it strange. There was something about this young woman that struck him to the core. He cared about her. Right away. Instantly.
More Seers emerged from the carriages, but he wasnt looking at them. He was staring at the girl with red hair, his mind swirling with a thousand thoughts. Whats her name? Which order of magic does she study? What kind of food does she like? The thoughts eventually ran together until his mind was a mush, as if hed been knocked out while standing straight up.
She wore traveling clothes, including knee-high leather boots, sturdy trousers, a brown outer garment, and what appeared to be a homespun cloak. Every single piece of clothing entuated her perfectly.
I dont know who you are, but I love you, he thought.
Chapter 30: Red Hair (2)
Chapter 30: Red Hair (2)
After the red-haired girl stepped out of the carriage, another girl joined her. The second girl was also attractive, but she had the same dark hair and olive skin that the majority of the other girls had.
Like the other newly-arrived mages, the red-haired girl looked around the square, appearing slightly nervous but at the same time expectant.
F daughter of Halj? someone said loudly.
One of the other mages in the group stepped forward. Xerxes'' attention shifted to her briefly, and he noted her fine garments and thick coat of makeup.
Here, she said.
Youe with me, one of the school staff said. The rest of you, form ranks over there. He gestured. The admission process will begin shortly.
The girl F, who was obviously the Purattu of the new group, hurried away, while the group wearing traveling clothes hurried to the spot indicated to join ranks.
The girl in the red hair walked with them, her eyes sweeping across the gathered students, and for a very brief moment, stopping on Xerxes.
Their eyes met.
At least, he was fairly certain they met. No. Absolutely certain.
Their eyes locked onto each other, and he could see deep into her soul, and she into him. Everything he had thought about before was confirmed. He was meant to be with this girl. He was meant to marry her.
Then her eyes moved past him, and the connection was broken.
But the feelings remained.
High Archon Kingallu started his speech over from the beginning, but Xerxes wasnt paying attention. He kept looking out of the corner of his eye at the red-haired girl. Unfortunately, there were too many other students in the way to get a good look at her.
After a short time, High Archon Kingallu said, Dismissed!
As the students scattered, Gandash leaned over and said, Are you ready?
Ready? Xerxes said, looking over his friends shoulder as the travel-worn Dumusi mages hurried away to begin their admission process.
Were you even listening? Gandash said. Hey. Xerk. Hey! What are you?
Gandash looked over his shoulder and saw the Dumusi mages. XERK!
Gandashs yell finally snapped Xerxes out of his reverie. Sorry. What now?
What the hell were you looking at?
Xerxes cleared his throat. Nothing. I was just thinking. What are we doing now?
Groaning, Gandash grabbed Xerxes by the elbow and pulled him into a walk.
We have a lecture to attend. Come on, we dont want to bete.
They went to arge hall with desks set up, where they attended a lecture about basic magic theory, but Xerxes couldnt pay attention for more than a few seconds at a time. asionally, the teacher would ask questions, and whenever Gandash raised his hand and got called on, he answered correctly.
Halfway through the ss, the teacher called for a short break.
Can you believe this? Gandash said.
What?
Did you ever think about how Btu and Hasasu could be used like that on the battlefield? We were always taught Hasasu wasnt forbat!
Oh, that. Right Xerxes said, although he had absolutely no idea what Gandash was referring to.
His friend looked at him. You werent listening, were you?
Xerxes shed a re. I was listening! Just not to that part.
Gandash rolled his eyes. Youve been acting weird since those Dumusi mages showed up. What happened?
Xerxes hesitated. Looked around. Then lowered his voice. Did you see that one girl with the red hair?
Gandashs brow furrowed. Red hair? I think so. What about her?
Xerxes sighed and leaned back in his chair. I wonder what her name is.
Thats what youre thinking about? Instead of listening to the lecture?
I was listening!
Come on, Gandash said, sounding as if he were hiding disgust. At a time like this, you should be paying more attention. Not getting distracted. He stood. Im going to get some water.
A momentter, Xerxes was alone. Whats bothering him? he thought.
A minute or two passed as he sat there with his thoughts. Then he vaguely realized two figures were looming over him.
Youre Xerxes, right? one of them said.
He looked up to find the two male mages from Jehannaemid standing in front of him. One of them was tall, with a wide smile and small head, the other short, with thick hair and a prominent nose.
Yeah, Im Xerxes. Youre he thought for a moment before saying, Jad, right?
The tall one nodded. Yeah.
Xerxes looked at the short one. And youre Enusoth?
Close. Enusat.
Xerxes shoved his hand into his hair and grinned. Right, Enusat. Sorry, Im really bad with names. He extended his hand to the shorter man. No hard feelings?
Nah, its fine. The young man gripped his hand, and he shook it.
Xerxes then offered his hand to Jad, who took it. Another handshake.
I noticed both of you had longswords, Xerxes said. How long have you been training?
A couple of years for me, Jad said.
Enusat shrugged. I started a few months ago.
Thats why we came over, Jad continued. Longswords are pretty rare, but we saw that you used one. Just like Purattu. We were thinking maybe we could get together and trade some tips?
For the first time since glimpsing the red-haired girl, Xerxes interest was piqued by something else. Sure! he said. As long as you promise not tough at my sword. Its a bit beat up. Well more than a bit. Its borderline junk.
Jadughed. Ive seen yours. It looks better than mine.
And probably an undred times better than mine, Enusat said. I think mine might fall apart at any moment.
It was Xerxes turn tough. Alright, noted. You know, theres another guy from Humusi that knows longsword. Kashtiliash.
The guy with the beard? Jad asked
Thats him. Hes pretty cool. If we add him, well have even more sparring partners.
Okay, sounds good.
If theres time after the lecture, Xerxes said, maybe we can all meet up. Or if not, after dinner.
Agreed, Xerxes.
Just call me Xerk.
Chapter 31: Soup (1)
Chapter 31: Soup (1)
The proposed post-dinner meetup never happened. The instructors seemed intent on enforcing the schedule, especially the routine of study and meditation. The next day featured two shorter, back-to-back lectures by different Archons.
The first lecturer was Archon Shabadras, who had gaunt cheekbones and a crooked nose. He started the morning by saying, Think about the baseponents used for Nasaru, Asgagu, and Btu spells respectively. Desert sand. Talcum powder. Beach sand. All of them are dry and granr. Its for this reason that we often ssify those three orders of magic.
Xerxes rested his chin on his hand and looked in the direction of where the red-haired girl was sitting. And from that point forward, he hardly caught a word the Archon said. As he sat there, he envisioned himself asking her what her name was. Regardless of the answer, hed be ready to respond with apliment.
What a beautiful name, hed say. Im Xerxes, an Asgagu mage from Mannemid.
Xerxes? Ive heard about you. Except, youre a lot more handsome than I thought youd be.
Oh, you tter me. Did you know I killed an Abhorrent in battle once? Also, I can catch knives. What? Youve never seen something like that before? Its really a trick, like what jugglers do, but its still impressive. Id be happy to show you!
Right now? I cant wait to see!
The second lecture of the day was slightly more interesting, as it focused on practical aspects of battlefield formations. Back on Mannemid, mages were treated like wildcards, not integral parts of the military itself. But things were different here, as a major part of their training was going to revolve around strategy, tactics, and leadership.
Different mages have different strengths and weaknesses, said the lecturer, a tall, broad-shouldered Archon named Adonia, who reminded him vaguely of Captain Ishki, except she had ck hair and ck eyes. What are the four primary types of troops fielded in war?
Gandash was one of a handful of Seers who raised their hand. The lecturer pointed in his direction. You.
Cavalry, heavy and light. Infantry, heavy and light.
Archon Adonia nodded in acknowledgment. Yes. ording to Macrides Unifying Military Treatise, which is the primary text well be referring to, certain mages lend themselves to specific troop types. For example, lets talk about heavy infantry, which are the armored soldiers who engage in front-line shockbat. What mage types would do well working among or as heavy infantry?
Numerous Seers raised their hands, and she called on one. You.
Probably Asgagu.
Adonia nodded. Good. Any others? You. She gestured at a mage on the opposite side of the gathered crowd.
Btu.
Exactly. Its little surprise that fighters and healers are generally considered well-suited to roles among heavy infantry. But there are other mage types that can work well in that role. For instance, Hasasu or Buhhu mages. How exactly do you fit mind-readers or summoners into troops on the battlefield? Lets consider what Macrides said in chapter 3. Listen carefully.
Despite how the lecture focused on fighting andbat, Xerxes still had trouble paying attention.
After the lunch hour was practical training in the form of a game of capture the g.
Xerxes had a much better time running around with blood pumping through his veins than he did sitting around listening to endless talking. He was paired with Gandash and two mages from the Harmu starisle named Laxu and Teucer. They worked fairly well together, especially once Gandash took charge and exined how to exploit a weakness hed found in the other teams strategy. After exploiting that weakness, they crushed their opponents and won handily, much to the praise of Archon Adonia.
After the practical training was dinnertime.
Only twenty minutes to eat? Gandash said. Im going to get a stomach ache.
Youll be fine, Xerxes replied, stuffing a barley cake into his mouth. It was so dry he had to wash it down with water. Okay, maybe youre right.
Its not disgusting, but it isnt banquet fare.
On the way out, he saw Jad and Enusat on the other side of the dining room and managed to nod in greeting. So far, he still hadn''t found any chances to reconnect with them.
The next day at the morning assembly, Xerxes saw the girl with the red hair, and he wanted to catch her eye, but she was too far away.
The first lecture of the morning was about history. Xerxes nearly yawned to death when the lecturer started exining the origin of the Nightmare Cove, and how it rted to the other main parts of the starsea.
Archon Adonias lecture on practical magic was about troop formations. She even brought in a few hundred soldiersKings Guard or something simrto help.
The Unsighted troops lined up and Adonia started cing mages into the crowd. As Xerxes trotted to his spot, his heart swelled when he saw the red-haired girl in the next formation over.
Maybe this is going to be my chance, he thought.
It was not his chance, as she never looked in his direction, nor did he get close enough to speak to her.
At lunch, he somehow got separated from Gandash but was happy to find himself at the same table with Jad and Enusat.
Hey, guys, sorry about not following up on the sword thing, he said. I didnt realize theyd keep us so busy.
Its fine, Enusat said. We might have to wait until the weekend.
I saw you looking at Katayoun, Jad said. Shes a looker, eh?
Xerxes opened his mouth to deny that hed been looking at anyone, then paused and grinned. So, thats her name. Katayoun?
Slurping some soup, Enusat said, The red-ead? Yeah, I eard some of the Ashlultum fes talking about er.
Xerxes gave an extended sigh. Theres something about her. Not just the way she looks. But you know. Her heart. Her spirit! I feel like its connected to mine.
Jad grinned. You saying shes your soulmate? Thats pretty heavy stuff.
Soulmate? Xerxes paused with his spoon dunked in his soup. I never thought about it like that. But maybe so.
Jad licked his spoon clean and used it to gesture at Xerxes. In that case, I think we have a more important mission than sword practice.
Xerxes looked at him. Oh?
Yeah. We need to make sure she knows about you.
Youre going to make sure she knows about me? How exactly?
Jad and Enusat exchanged a nce.
Chapter 31: Soup (2)
Chapter 31: Soup (2)
Good question, Enusat said. Its not like were experts on women. But Jad did ave a couple of girlfriends back home. E knows more than me.
Xerxes looked expectantly at the taller of the two young mages.
Jad took another spoonful of soup and then sat there looking thoughtful. Finally, he said, Okay, I have nothing.
Xerxes looked at him for a long moment, thenughed. Jadughed too, and Enusat joined them.
But seriously, Jad continued, well think of something. Thats what friends are for, right?
Xerxes thought about it. Yeah, I guess so.
The Seers from Sin-Masu arrived that evening, but they came during the meditation hour, so no one saw them. Another group arrived early in the morning from Al-Ga.
Both groups stood out from the crowd, for different reasons. Those from Sin-Masu, males and females alike, seemed obsessed with piercings, and had bits of metal and gemstones attached to ears, lips, noses, and even cheeks and chins. The ones from Al-Ga had short hair, no more than half a finger long, regardless of whether they were male or female. Some even kept itpletely clean-shaven.
The day went simrly to the previous day. Lectures. Practical training. Lunch. Meditation. Study. There were no opportunities for rxation, and no chances for Xerxes to get into the presence of Katayoun. He kept spotting her. Across the field during practical training. At the lunch room. But he never got a chance to approach her.
That evening as they prepared to sleep, Gandash said, Xerk, you seem really distracted. Like youre hardly paying attention to anything.
Huh? Xerxes replied. I dont know what you mean.
Im just worried. Once the mages from Harmue, theyll do the assessments, and you want to perform well, right? Some extra study time wouldnt hurt. Id be happy to help.
Dont worry, Gandy, I might not look it, but Im paying super close attention.
Okay. Well night, Xerk.
Night.
The next day should have been the start of the weekend, but the teachers said that, temporarily, there would be no downtime on Sixthday or Restday.
That provoked quite a few groans, but there was nothing the Seers could do about it.
The Harmu mages arrived at the lunch hour, as Xerxes was in line getting his food. When the news broke, a cheer rose up in the dining hall. Although not everyone was as bored with sses as Xerxes, everyone was eager to get on to the next phase of their education.
ncing around, he wasnt able to spot Gandash, but he did see Jad and Enusat, so he started toward them. About halfway through the tables, he noticed Jad making a face at him. Squinting, he craned his neck to get a better view, and realized the tall Seer was mouthing something.
Unfortunately, Xerxes wasnt very good at reading lips.
What? he mouthed in an exaggerated fashion.
Exasperated, Jad started gesturing, at first waving, and then circling his finger in the air and pointing it at Xerxes.
What the hell is he going on about? Xerxes thought. Then it hit him. Jad was saying behind you.
Xerxes stopped in ce and turned on his heel.
Directly behind him, also threading her way through the tables, was red-haired Katayoun. She had a lunch tray in her hand and was turning back to say something to her friend. And she was about to run right into him.
He was twisted, his feet almost crossed, and he had a trayden with food.
Shit, he thought, and he tried to back away from her, but his heel snagged on the opposite ankle, and he stumbled. Then his calf hit one of the benches, and before he knew what was happening, he was falling.
This time, he cursed aloud.
Shit!
Katayoun turned, her eyes going wide as she caught sight of him tumbling to the ground in front of her. His soup bowl slipped up and then flipped over, sending hot lentils everywhere. Katayouns friend put her hand over her mouth.
Then it was over as he crashed onto the ground and soup soaked him from belly button to face.
His tray ttered to one side and the bowl to the other.
A few gasps rang out.
He got up onto his elbows, surrounded by chuckles. The chuckles turned intoughs.
Katayoun stood above him, her expression one of embarrassment and shock.
Howe shes embarrassed? he thought.
Moreughter rippled through the dining hall, and Xerxes cheek twitched as a smile started to form. Might as well make the best of this shit.
mbering to his feet, arms akimbo and dripping with soup, he looked at Katayoun, grinned, and said, Good thing I didnt bathe yesterday, eh?
That was bad, he thought. Real bad. Didnt bathe?
She stared at him for a very long moment, and he cursed himself for not acting more seriously.
Finally, she chuckled and looked away. Im so sorry, she said.
Its fine, dont worry about it. Im Xerxes. He extended his hand, then saw his palm covered with smashed lentils, and pulled it back.
Ill make this up to you, she said. Come on, Kishar. She tugged her friends arm, and they hurried away through the tables.
Damn, she didnt tell me her name, he thought.
One of the school staff came over, thrust a rag in his face, and said, Clean yourself up. You dont have time to change. Then she started mopping up the mess.
Drying himself as best he could, he got a new tray of food and went back to Jad and Enusat.
Enusat sniggered. Smooth move, Xerk.
Fuck you, Xerxes said, grinning.
Jad grunted augh. Hey, at least she knows who you are now.
No thanks to you two clowns. But hey, I know your heart was in the right ce. If I could read lips better, I might have pulled off something amazing.
The tall mage pushed a small te toward Xerxes, atop which was a powdered pastry of dates and pistachios. Here, take this.
Your dessert? Xerxes said.
Yeah, the best part of the meal. Its a downpayment.
For what.
I owe you. I should have done a better job with my signals.
It was Xerxes turn tough, and while he did, he pushed the dessert back across the table. No need. Youre right. She knows who I am, so the hard parts over. And in the end, I have you to thank.
In that case Jade took the dessert and popped it into his mouth we need toe up with the next phase of the n.
Chapter 32: Day of Rest (1)
Chapter 32: Day of Rest (1)
The following morning was the first assembly in which all of the mages were present. High Archon Kingallu started with the same old summary speech.
Then he said, I have good news and bad news. The good news is that, though we said there would be no rest days, the teachers have decided to allow for some downtime. It is Restday after all.
A small cheer went up.
Well have a lecture this morning, and then youll have the afternoon to rx and prepare for theing week. For now, you wont be allowed to leave the campus. That privilege will be addedter.
But feel free to roam the gardens close to the main schoolplex, or the fields in the back. Explore the training rooms, the museum, the stables, or do whatever else you see fit. Nap if you wish. Theres a temple for those who wish to engage in formal worship of the Pontifarch. As you probably noticed, the walls of the Institute are designed to be functional, so if you wish to stroll on the battlements, you may. But be aware that there are spell formations bolstering the walls. Do not throw anything over the edge, spit, or attempt to climb down to the other side.
And do not attempt to leave the campus by any other means. The punishment for breaking the rules will be severe.
Now, for the bad news. Assessments will begin tomorrow, first thing. The order of testing will be announcedter today after the dinner hour. Well go in order starting with the Seers who arrived first, roughly speaking. That means that you from Harmu will have a few days to settle in and attend a few sses before the testing.
The testing should be finished by Fifthday. The weekend will be one of rest and recuperation, and then your new assignments will be announced on the following Firstday. Which is when your real education will begin.
Before we go into the morning prayer, Id like to provide a bit of news regarding the Abhorrent invasion.
All of you here are from Ira starisles such as Humusi, Dumusi, Ashlultum, Al-Ga, and the like. But as you know, there are many other starisles subsidiary to Ku-Aya besides Ira. There are some members of the Mage Parliament here on Sin-Amuhhu that believe the Ira incidents to be nothing but a probing invasion. In other words, they think that far worse attacks wille in the future. Thats one of the reasons weve brought you here to train. So dont think of this as some sort of vacation or a game.
Take this evenings rest time to prepare yourselves in mind and body. Starting tomorrow, things will get tough. Very tough.
Finally, some free time, Xerxes thought. As soon as the morning prayer was finished, and the assembly adjourned, he walked through the crowd toward Katayoun. However, she already had her back to him, and walked shoulder-to-shoulder with her friend back toward the main part of the school, and presumably, the dorms.
Random Seers kept getting in his way as he tried to catch up with her. He was tempted to call her name, but it would have attracted too much attention.
She broke free of the crowd before he did.
Move, buddy, he growled to someone before nearly pushing him out of the way.
Hey! the young man called after him.
Xerxes broke into a jog, but Katayoun had already reached the dorm entrance. By the time he jumped through the entrance himself, shed already entered the wing set aside for female mages.
Shit, he muttered, pping his palm against the wall. He waited for a minute or two, but she never came out.
Finally, he left for the lecture. When he arrived, Katayoun was already there, sitting with her friends.
Idiot, he chided himself. Hed totally forgotten that the dorms had back entrances.
The morning lecture went by so slowly that Xerxes wanted to die.
The topic was, yet again, starsea geography, a topic so dry and stuffy he wasnt sure why they bothered with it. Who cared about theyout of Gateways and the configuration of starisles? What did that have to do with fighting on the battlefield?
Thinking he was half-paying attentionbut in reality not paying attention at allhe spent the morning lecture thinking about longsword fighting, contemting what it would be like to be a High Seer and finally be able to cast a spell that would make his sword on a magical level, and trying to get a glimpse of Katayoun through the crowd.
Unfortunately, he could barely make out much more than a lock of hair here and there, and eventually, he stopped trying. Then, before he knew what was happening, he fell asleep.
The call to wake up came when Gandash poked Xerxes ribs.
Ow, Xerxes said, sitting up. What happened?
Youre lucky you didnt start snoring. Come on, we have the rest of the day off.
Katayoun, Xerxes thought, and he jumped up and looked around. There wasnt a sign of red hair anywhere around.
Gandash frowned. She left already.
Oh.
Xerk, youre acting. Gandash didnt finish his sentence. Look, the assessments start tomorrow. Tomorrow. Lets go back and study. We want to be totally ready, right?
Right.
Back in the room, Xerxes saw Gandash had a huge pile of books on the desk at the foot of his bed.
Whered thosee from? Xerxes asked.
The library. Thats kind of the point of the ce. Here, this ones about starsea geography. He slipped a book out from the middle of the stack. Considering how much theyve been talking about it, I bet you ten shekels its on the test.
Xerxes took the book, sat at his own desk, and started reading. After flipping through a few pages, he realized he hadnt registered anything that he was reading. This is pointless. Whatevers on the test, I either know it or dont know it.
You know, he said, closing the book, neither of us have been to temple since before the mission on Mannemid. Knowing you, I figured youd have gone praying or something.
Gandash looked at him. They dont have a temple of the One Faith on campus.
Oh, right.
Theres one to the south, though. I asked. Once we get to go outside, Ill definitely head there. You shoulde with me.
Sure. He stood up. I need some fresh air. Ill be right back.
Before Gandash could protest, Xerxes was out the door.
Chapter 32: Day of Rest (2)
Chapter 32: Day of Rest (2)
He wasnt really sure where he was going or what he was going to do, he just knew he didnt want to spend his only half-day off stuck in a room studying for a test.
A few turnster, he was out of the dorms and into the main square, where the assemblies were held. A few groups of Seers were here and there. None with red hair.
He strolled around the campus, sticking close to the buildings. At one point, he noticed a cluster of Humusi mages that he recognized. One saw him and shouted a greeting. He waved back.
Rounding the corner, he entered the back part of the campus, which contained expansive grassy areas as well as a pond, a small copse of trees that nearly qualified as a forest, and some hills.
Hey! someone yelled, from the direction of the trees. It was a young man.
He saw someone there, but couldnt identify him.
Xerk! he yelled again. Come here!
Xerxes walked across the grass toward the trees. Momentster, he realized it was big-nosed Enusat.
Enusat! he said.
I was actually running out to find you. Hurry up!
He ran thest few cubits. Whats going on?
Come with me, the shorter mage said, then ducked into the trees.
Xerxes followed. At first, the trees were too thick to spy whaty beyond them. But before long, it became obvious that a short distance into the small wood was an open space. It was a meadow of sorts, filled with well-trimmed grass and a few boulders around the edges.
Stepping out of the tree line, he saw small-headed Jad, along with bearded Kashtiliash. There was another mage present, a hawk-faced fellow named Teucer that Xerxes had teamed up with during one of the practical training exercises.
All had wooden swords in their hands, with Jad and Teucer facing each other in standard guard positions.
Look who I found! Enusat said.
Everyone looked over.
There you are! Jad said. We looked for you after the lecture, but you vanished.
Xerxes ran his hand through his hair. Sorry. Tried to do some studying, but I couldnt concentrate.
Enusat hurried over to one of the boulders, where three wooden swordsy on the ground. He grabbed two of them. Getting together for sword practice was your idea, Xerk, but we didnt want to lose the chance to ave our first meeting.
He tossed one of the swords to Xerxes, who caught it easily.
Whered you get the practice swords? Xerxes asked.
You can check them out from the armory. They have just about every kind of weapon you can imagine there.
Xerxes swung the sword in a few circles to get a feel for its weight and bnce. Im d were finally doing it. I havent done any practice for weeks.
Were just warming up, Kashtiliash said. Want to trade a few blows?
Xerxes smiled. Sure.
He started with some basic movements to get his blood flowing, and then some stretching. Then he crossed swords with Kashtiliash.
For the next few hours, they traded partners, doing very light sparring and practicing some basic moves. As it turned out, Teucer, who was also an Asgagu mage, didnt have any experience with the longsword. Kashtiliash had convinced him toe learn a bit.
Jad and Enusat were both good. However, it only took a bit of back and forth before it became obvious neither of them were on the same level as Xerxes, especially Enusat. Xerxes found himself going slower than necessary and exining his moves about half the time.
At one point, Xerxesnded a very light blow on Jads midriff. The tall mage stepped back, rubbing the spot where the wooden sword had touched him. Damn, what was that?
The Squinting sh, Xerxes said. Youve never seen it before?
If its a sh, why did you end up stabbing me?
Xerxes rested his sword on his shoulder. Good question. Anyway, the key is how you sort of flip the sword around into a different grip. Like this.
He showed Jad a way of gripping the sword by using the thumb to stabilize the de. Then he went back to the Skyward position and went through the Squinting sh a few more times to show him how it worked.
Jad made an attempt at the move.
Not bad, Xerxes said. Try it on me now.
Everything was different with Kashtiliash. When he and Xerxes finally faced off in the second hour, it became immediately obvious that the bearded mage knew what he was doing.
After feeling each other out for about fifteen minutes, Kashtiliash said, Lets do some actual sparring.
Sure, Xerxes said.
That was when Kashtiliash really went all out. He was careful with his blows, but it only took about five exchanges before Xerxes had a sense of the bearded mages skill.
Backing up a few steps, he saluted Kashtiliash with his wooden sword and said, Youre my superior.
Kashtiliash saluted him back. Youre no hogdown swordsman yourself.
Xerxes grinned. Thanks.
Kash is good, but this club was your idea, Xerk, Jad said. I think its fair that youre the leader. Do you agree, boys?
Off to the side Enusat, and Teucer all voice their agreement. Kashtiliash grunted and nodded.
Wiping sweat from his brow with the back of his hand, Xerxes tossed his wooden sword back onto the pile.
No way, he said. The best swordsman should be in charge, and thats Kash.
Kashtiliash flipped his sword around and rested it casually in the crook of his arm. I guess I can do it.
What about you, Jad? You good with Kash being the leader of our little sword club?
Sure, the tall mage said.
Im fine with it, Teucer added.
Enusat nodded. Same.
Then its settled, Xerxes said. Kash is the new head swordsman of the the Humusi Swordmasters!
Humusi Swordsmasters, Kashtiliash said. I like it. He lifted his sword into the air. Swordsmen, salute!
Chapter 33: Written Testing (1)
Chapter 33: Written Testing (1)
There were three phases to the assessment. A written test of knowledge, a physical test ofbat abilities and spellcasting, and an oral interview. The interview was the final phase, with the order of the first two phases being random.
For the groups who had arrived earlier, including Xerxes fellows, the order of testing was determined by lots. Xerxes was hoping that hisbat and spellcasting test woulde first, as that was his strong suit. Hed rather go into the assessment with a bang and make a big impression, than start out with his weak point: book knowledge.
When the lots were cast after the dinner hour, his scalp tightened when he saw he was scheduled for the first round of written testing on Firstday, withbat and spellcasting being tested on Thirdday.
He hardly registered anything around him as he trudged from the dining hall back to the dorms.
I cant believe this, he said, flopping down onto his bed. Our group arrived fourth! I thought for sure that meant wed have a couple of days to study during the week.
Gandash sat at his study desk, which looked smaller than ever covered with books and papers. It was quite a contrast to Xerxes desk, which seemed emptier than a torrent valley in the dry season.
I told you something like this was going to happen, Gandash said. What were you doing all afternoon? Training?
Yeah.
Hope it was worth it.
Xerxes opened his mouth to fire off a retort, but no words came. He closed his mouth.
Gandash sighed. We have a couple of hours before lights out. Why dont we review together?
Groaning, Xerxes sat up. Yeah, I probably should. But review what? Do you have any idea whats going to be on the test?
Nobody knows that. From what Ive heard, though, the topics from the recent lectures and training exercises are all going to have test questions. Which one do you think is your weakest?
All of them?
Gandashughed, then turned in his chair and grabbed a book. Lets start with starsea geography. Thats definitely not your strong suit.
Xerxes groaned again.
Gandash flipped open the book. Okay, they definitely talked about the breakdown of the empire itself. For instance, the Major Artery Gateways. How many of them were disabled, cutting off the passageways to the Nightmare Cove?
Xerxes licked his lips. Three?
Gandash looked up at him with a deadpan expression.
Two?
Gandash visibly attempted not to frown. Five.
I was going to say that.
For the following thirty minutes, Xerxes proved that he was, at best, behind in geography. It was a struggle not to look embarrassed. He was already starting to feel like a fool for having his head in the clouds recently.
How about we focus on something more in line with your strengths, Gandash said, picking out another book, this one about spellcasting. Lets start by listing out the casting times for all Seer-level spells.
An hour passed, whereupon they switched topics and delved intoponents.
This is so dumb, Xerxes said. Im an Asgagu mage. Why should I know all the details of Hasasu spellponents? It makes no sense!
Simple. Ill give you an example. A Hasasu Mystic can cast Superior Empathics, which has a range of about a hundred and twenty-five cubits. Thats more than enough distance to get a read on enemy troops, whether theyre in formation on the battlefield, or in a camp at night.
Okay. So?
So you obviously need to know Hasasuponents.
But why?
Ganash huffed. What if youre I dont know, raiding an enemy camp, and you find a stash of spellponents. You can only take enough stuff to fit in a bag, so you have to pick and choose. If you have a Hasasu Mystic in your group, you should know whatponents they need. What if you fill your bag with beach sandponents, but have no Btu mage that can use them? Youd waste your entire raiding trip.
Xerxes tilted his head to the side and lifted his eyebrows. Okay, good point.
So, going with the Hasasu theme. The Hasasu Seer-level spell is Base Empathics. Theponent is a mixture of?
Diamond powder and hm.
Broad.
Broadleaf dust!
Gandash pped softly. Good! Mix broadleaf dust and diamond powder, and you get?
Broadleaf powder!
Youre on a roll, Xerk. Okay, moving on to Hasasu High Seers. What are the two spells they bring to the table?
Greater Empathics and Minor Ster Inkling!
Bingo!
See, Im notpletely hopeless.
Another hour passed.
Gandash yawned. You getting sleepy yet?
No way. Lets keep going.
Okay, but its not smart to go into a test without a good nights sleep. He nced at the timepiece above the door. Id say we have about another hour.
Shortly thereafter, the toll of a bell announced lights out time had arrived. They dutifully turned the mainmps out. But as was a custom among students everywhere, they threw a nket to the base of the door to block the light, and kept studying with candles.
They moved on to battlefield tactics, then did a quick review of basic history, before Gandash finally said he was too tired to continue.
Night, Gandy, Xerxes said. Thanks for the help.
Sure thing, Xerk. See you in the morning.
Xerxes blew his candle out,y his head on his pillow, and looked up at the ceiling. All of a sudden, he realized he hadnt thought about Katayoun for almost the entire afternoon. Now, she filled his mind; her hair, her eyes, her voice.
Dammit, Im never going to be able to fall asleep now, he thought. Two minutester, he was snoring.
The following morning after breakfast, he climbed the stairs to the second floor of the main wing of the school, where most of the ssrooms were located. There were a few other Seers already waiting outside of ssroom 2-E, which was the test location.
He was still behind on learning names, but he recognized most faces. Not a single one was from Humusi. More mages arrived after him, and then a teacher let them in.
Make sure you have at least three desks between each of you, the teacher said.
When they were situated, the teacher passed out wax tablets and wooden styluses to the test-takers.
The first portion of the test is multiple choice. Record your answers on the tablet. Youll have one hour. When you finish, close the tablet and put your stylus down, then wait for the second phase of the test. In a moment, Ill pass out the test questions. Dont break the seal until I announce the official start of the test.
With that, the teacher passed out a sealed scroll to each student.
Begin, the teacher said.
Chapter 33: Written Testing (2)
Chapter 33: Written Testing (2)
Xerxes broke the seal, unfurled the scroll, and looked at the first question.
Which region of the starsea has only four Major Artery Gateways?
The question wasnt too bad as far as Xerxes was concerned. It wasnt exactly what he and Gandash had reviewed the night before, but he remembered the basics, plus a few tidbits of knowledge from other sources.
Major Artery Gateways were the most important and least numerous Gateways, connecting important starisles like Sin-Amuhhu. One thing he remembered from his studies on Mannemid was that the Endless Shoalwhich wasnt part of the empireand the Far Regions both had three Major Artery Gateways. That left the Depthswhich was the central part of the empireand the Great Reef, where Sin-Amuhhu was located. He remembered Gandash mentioning that the Depths had more Major Artery Gateways than anywhere else.
Boom, Xerxes thought. The answer is obviously B, the Great Reef.
He made a note on the wax tablet and moved on to the next question.
The next few questions were all of a simr level of difficulty. Though he didnt know the answers immediately, he could eliminate some of the possibilities and eventually iste the correct response. But then he reached the following question:
The Nergal is:- An inheritable title given to an important Anunnaki
- The surname of a powerful Anunnaki
- A rank held by many Anunnaki
- The nickname of a dangerous Anunnaki
Xerxes stifled a groan. How the hell am I supposed to know this?
He was fairly certain that C was incorrect, as there was only one Nergal. But whether it was a title, a surname, or a nickname he had no idea. Had the Nergal been discussed in one of the lectures in the past few days? He couldnt remember.
A, B, or D? he thought. After racking his brain for about five minutes, he finally resorted to some basic test-taking tactics. Obviously, A cant be right. They never put the correct answer first. And since its not C, then they wouldnt have D be the right one. Its too obvious. B it is!
The test questions seemed to get harder and harder.
Or perhaps it was just the fact that time was running out.
Five minutes left, the teacher said.
Shit. He still had eight questions to go. He rushed to the end, making nearly random guesses for the final two or three, and marking down his final answer just as time was called.
Keep your styluses but pass the pads and scrolls forward. After the students handed in their test materials, the teacher passed out a new set of wax pads, along with a sealed scroll.
For the next segment, you need to provide short answers to the questions. Generally, a word or two, although short sentences are eptable.
After all the materials were in the hands of the students the teacher continued, Time limit: forty-five minutes. Begin.
This part of the test was worse. At least with the multiple-choice, he knew that the right answer was there, and even if he guessed, he had a minimum one-in-four chance of getting it right.
Some questions were very easy.
How many Flushes must a High Seer perform to reach the Mystic level?
Easy. The increase in the number of Flushes required per level came in multiples of six. It took six Flushes for a Sighted to be a Seer. Twelve for a Seer to be a High Seer. And eighteen for a High Seer to reach the Mystic level.
Hopefully, all the questions were this simple.
They werent.
Abhorrent juveniles have multiple stages of growth. At which stage do they develop a second magical power?
Xerxes bit his lip. He remembered that high-level juveniles could have two powers. And he remembered for sure that there were, at the very least, stage five juveniles. But as for exactly how many total stages of growth there were, he didnt know, much less at which stage they developed multiple powers. The big one that attacked the capital had been a stage five; he remembered Purattu saying so. But did it have one magical power, or two? The cloud of creatures that coalesced into an attack had definitely been one power. And it had jumped in a seemingly impossible way. Did that mean it had two powers?
Frowning, he wrote stage five as his answer.
Continuing through the test, he felt less and less confident in his answers. Some questions he didnt understand at all.
Buhhu spells use Abhorrent blood as their primaryponent. The blood of summoned Abhorrent disappears when the spell ends. Therefore, where does the blood used for spellponentse from?
Xerxes stared at the test scroll as he realized hed never even thought of that issue, much less heard the topic discussed. He wished hed paid more attention to the lectures and less time obsessing about a girl.
He pondered the Abhorrent blood conundrum for five minutes before deciding to leave the answer nk. Better to admit he didnt know than look foolish by putting a ridiculous answer that might beughed at.
Sessive questions made his heart sink.
When it came time to hand in the wax pad, his heart had sunk somewhere beyond his stomach. Hed left three questions nk altogether, and there were many others he knew in his gut that hed answered incorrectly. If he failed the test altogether, would they kick him out of the school? Send him back to Mannemid?
What was worse, it felt like his thoughts were moving slower by the minute.
The final portion of the test is an essay, the teacher announced. Youll have one hour toplete it. Instead of a wax pad, youll have paper and ink. Dont waste the ink. If you run out, you dont get any extra. When youre finished, leave the paper on your desk to dry, then get lunch and take the rest of the afternoon off. Good luck.
Are you kidding me? Xerxes thought. An essay?
Back in the Mage Academy on Mannemid, hed only written an essay once.
The prompt made his head spin.
You are part of a military force on an unknown, in a distant starisle, which has been overrun by Abhorrent. Your only hope of survival is traveling to a nearby Gateway, but the path leads through a small mountainous valley that is upied by Abhorrent. You do not know which type of Abhorrent, but you do know there are about a dozen of them. Most are at the spawn level, but there are at least two juveniles. Yourmanding officer assigns you the task of clearing the way. You may pick three Seers and thirty troops. In addition to yourself, the avable mage types are: Nasaru, Asgagu, Btu, and Hasasu. The avable troop types, broken into units of ten, are: heavy infantry, light infantry, light cavalry.
Please exin which mages and troops you will use, and describe your initial n of attack, as well as any alternate or backup strategies.
After re-reading the prompt, Xerxes closed his eyes, took a deep breath, then started writing.
Chapter 34: Combat Testing (1)
Chapter 34: Combat Testing (1)
Gandash finished his portion of the written test early, and was one of the first to leave the ssroom. Xerxes took everyst second of the time avable. He spent a lot of time adding what if sections to the end of his essay. Like what if the Abhorrent have swords or what if theres andslide. He hoped the teachers would interpret them as him really thinking about the question.
He still had two important what ifs left in mind when the teacher announced the five-minute countdown. In the end, he barely managed to scrawl a concluding sentence down to tie the whole essay together.
Im screwed, he thought as he trudged downstairs to the dining hall, where they were serving deep-fried kibbeh with a pomegranate sauce and some sort of sd.
Gandash was still working on his lunch, so Xerxes joined him, bringing a te full of kibbeh but no sd.
That was fun, huh? Gandash said.
Fun? Xerxes said, dunking a kibbeh into the sauce. More like torture.
His friend looked at him with an eyebrow raised. That bad?
Yeah.
What was your essay question? Im curious if everyone got the same topic.
Lead three mages and a bunch of troops against some Abhorrent in a valley. He took a bite of kibbeh.
Same as me! What mage lineup did you pick?
Dunking the kibbeh again, he said, The obvious one. Asgagu, Nasaru, Btu. Even out of the corner of his eye, Xerxes could see Gandash flinching. He looked up at his friend. What. Thats not right?
Gandash shrugged slightly. I doubt theres anypletely right or wrong answer. But at the Seer level, Nasaru mages can only cast a small shield that protects one person. What good is that going to do overall?
Xerxes took another bite as he considered Gandashs words. Well, shit. I didnt think about that. What lineup did you pick?
Gandash grinned. All Hasasu.
What? Are you kidding? But you cant do that!
Why not?
There were four mage types to pick from. You were supposed to pick three out of the four.
Said who? Gandash asked. The test question didnt mention any limitations like that.
W-well, Xerxes spluttered, what about yourself? Youre not a Hasasu mage!
They didnt say you had to include yourself.
Xerxes couldnt think of any further argument. Okay, fine. But Hasasu mages? Why? Their spells arent good for fighting!
Like High Archon Kingallu mentioned in the lecture two days ago, the Base Empathics spell works on Abhorrent. And think of the range. Basically, you use the Hasasu mages to pinpoint the location of the Abhorrent, and especially the juveniles. Then you send in three units of light infantry, with a single unit of heavy infantry to protect them. The archers and javelineers will wipe out the juveniles before they have any idea what hit them. With them out of the picture, the rest of the Abhorrent will be easy to deal with. In fact, there might even be time for the light infantry to get to them before they react. At least, thats the idea. I came up with three contingency ns based on.
Gandash began to drone about some sort ofplicated nking maneuver, until Xerxes found his kibbeh and pomegranate sauce more interesting. His friend was still going when Xerxes finished his meal.
Okay, okay, Xerxes interrupted. I get it. He crawled out from the bench seat. Tell me moreter, alright? Right now I think I have a headacheing on.
Oh sure.
Back at their dorm room, Xerxesy on the bed for a time, his eyes closed, trying not to think about all the seemingly countless test questions hed been clueless about. Gandash never showed up.
Eventually, Xerxes prowled the campus a bit looking for his friends. The entire ce seemed eerily quiet. But when he stopped by the library, it was packed. Gandash was there, and Katayoun too. He even spotted Enusat at a table. Apparently, everyone was focused onst-minute studying.
But there wasnt any point in studying now. Feeling like he had nothing better to do, he went to the forest clearing and did a bit of solo longsword practice before settling down at the base of a boulder to do some meditating. Hed never recovered fully from the spellcasting on Mannemid, and wouldnt be able to perform a Flush without maxing out.
That evening, he did some restless rune study, then slept early.
The next day passed simrly.
When Thirdday came, he felt ready. Waking early, he ate a light breakfast and made sure to be the first person to show up at the assembly hall in the very back of the university buildingplex. It was arge, echoey room that wasrge enough to easily fit several hundred, with wood floors and a vaulted ceiling.
This phase of the testing was much more in line with Xerxes strengths. The first round involved going through a series of stations where the students would interact with a teacher to disy various skills and abilities. Each station was walled off by temporary curtains, giving a small amount of privacy inside.
At the first station was a burly mage Xerxes didnt recognize.
Name and home starisle? the man said.
Xerxes from Mannemid.
Noted. Im going to assess your unarmed striking. Put on these gloves.
After the striking assessment came grappling. Then weapon proficiencies, including obvious options like short sword and shield, spear, and staff. There were a few exotic additions, such as a whip, war il, and curved daggers simr to the ones Satashusar had used back on Mannemid. No longsword, which caused Xerxes to frown in disappointment.
After that, the group was led out to one of the back fields, where they were put into groups of four to disy horsemanship. That included both solo horseback riding, and charioteering.
There was a short lunch, and then they met again near the main assembly hall. Once they were all gathered, a teacher led them around a corner and down a hall, then had them line up against the wall.
Chapter 34: Combat Testing (2)
Chapter 34: Combat Testing (2)
The next phase will be behind closed doors, the teacher exined. It will involve abat scenario with spellcasting. Anyponents used will be reced. And dont worry, the school will also provide Concentrated Mm Pills to make up for lost energy.
There were four Seers before Xerxes. As he waited, he tried to time how long it took between each session, and came to the conclusion that each mage was assessed for only about four or five minutes. In the case of the second person in line, it seemed they were only inside for a minute.
He wasnt sure what it meant.
When it was his turn, he entered what seemed to be little more than arge rectangr room with stone floor, walls, and ceiling. At the end was a raised section with a table, behind which sat three teachers. One of them was Archon Shabadras, and another he recognized from lectures as Archon Pag. The third, he didnt know.
Seer Xerxes, said Archon Pag, from Mannemid. Wee.
Good to be here.
The test is simple. Archon Shabadras will summon two Abhorrent spawn. The first one, you will fight using a mundane weapon of your choice. The second one youll fight using your magic. Its my understanding you study the Epitome, is that right?
Xerxes still wasnt sure what the Epitome meant, but he knew it had to do with longswords.
Thats right, he said.
Theres a longsword on the weapon rack behind you. Feel free to use it, or any of the other weapons. In terms of spellponents, do you have your pouch with you?
He nodded. Always.
Good. In that case, use your own spellponents, and youll bepensated afterward. Remember, part of the test is spellcasting. Even if you feel you can dispatch the second Abhorrent without using magic, we still want to see what youre capable of.
Understood, Archon.
Take your weapon. The test will begin as soon as youre armed. Its impossible to urately identify the spawn to be summoned, so be prepared for the unexpected. Well step in if necessary, and any injuries you sustain will be healed as soon as the assessment is over.
Yes, sir.
Xerxes backed up and took the longsword from the weapon rack. As soon as his hand closed around the hilt, he felt a mixture of nostalgia and envy. The weapon was obviously superior to his own. Simr to the one hede across in the small shop in Kisiga back home, it didnt look particrly special. But the bnce was perfect, and he could tell that the craftsmanship was superb.
He swung the sword, stepped into the center, and loosened hisponent pouchs drawstring.
At the table, Shabadras, looking bored, took a ss vial out of a box, popped the cork, and dumped a sludge into his palm. A disgusting aroma filled the chamber as he then went on to cast the spell.
Twin portals of darkness opened, with Xerxes standing in front of them waiting to see what would pop out.
Expect the unexpected, huh? he thought, keeping his sword in the Skyward position. Considering Ive only ever seen two types of Abhorrent spawn, that seems like the obvious thing to do. What are the chances that
Even as the thought ran through his head, he saw spindly white legs reaching out from each of the portals, along with that distinctive, noxious aroma that hed encountered on multiple asions back home.
Youve got to be kidding me.
No, it was no joke. Out of the two portals crawled two spider-like abhorrent with reddish head appendages that resembled faces.
As soon as the two creatures were out in the open, the one on the right started crawling toward him.
He danced forward and skewered it at an angle he knew would make it easy to finish the thing off with one more action. He pulled his sword out with a twist, causing ck blood and whitish fluid to stter everywhere as the monster copsed.
He jumped back, ced the sword on the ground behind him, then pulled out a handful of crabnickel powder.
The teachers seemed shocked that hed already taken out the first Abhorrent, and the second was currently standing there motionless. Apparently, Archon Shabadras hadnt yet given it amand to do anything.
Xerxes traced the Asgagu Isten rune, and the mm flowed, causing his fist to burn brightly a moment before the second Abhorrent started moving.
It stepped toward him, but he was already in motion. Wanting to prevent it from grabbing him with its legs, he took two leaping steps to the left, then nted his foot on the wall and jumped into the air. It wasnt the most beautiful jumping attack ever seen inbat. But it did the job. His fist mmed into the creatures back, and he tried to keep his nose pinched shut to keep out the fetid fumes that erupted up.
The thing stumbled away, but he didnt let it get far. He grabbed one of the slimy legs and used it as leverage to keep his burning hand continuing through the things innards. It hissed, but he ignored it and shoved his hand further inside.
It tried to grab him, but its legs didnt bend in the right way to make it happen easily. It only took a second or two of him digging through its innards before it copsed into death.
He flicked his arm, which freed it of a bit of the gore, but not much.
He stepped away from the two corpses, put his hands behind his back, and looked at the teachers.
They were all staring at him with open expressions of shock. One of them, the Archon Shabadras whod summoned the Abhorrent, even had his mouth open.
Xerxes took in a breath and exhaled slowly.
Shabadras spell ended, and the Abhorrent faded from existence, including the spilled blood and mangled bits of flesh.
Finally, the teacher in charge cleared his throat softly.
Well done, Seer Xerxes. He shuffled some of the papers in front of him, picked one in particr, and looked at it closely. This isnt the interview portion of the assessment, so we dont have your full file here. But my guess is that youve fought more than one or two Abhorrent in the past.
Thats right, Xerxes answered. The first was a juvenile. That fight ended poorly. The second I killed single-handedly.
Thats nothing short of astounding, Archon Shabadras said. But what do you mean when you say the first fight ended poorly?
Xerxes jaw tightened. One of my friends didnt make it out alive. A Btu Seer named Bel.
Archon Shabadras expression softened. Im sorry to hear that.
Now I remember, Archon Pag said. You came here in the group with Seer Gandash. Very interesting.
The three teachers exchanged a nce.
Well, the assessment is over, Seer Xerxes, Archon Pag continued. The back door leads to a washroom where you can clean yourself up. Your interview is scheduled for Fourthday after the lunch hour. Well see you then.
Chapter 35: A Big Announcement (1)
Chapter 35: A Big Announcement (1)
The atmosphere in the school continued to be heavy and tense. Xerxes found moments to spend with Gandash, as well as with his newfound friends Jad, Enusat, and Kashtiliash. But given that everyone had different schedules of testing, normal conversation was impossible.
On a few asions, he prowled the school hoping he might identally run into Katayoun, but fate worked against him. Whenever he saw her, she was either busy studying in the library at a packed table for instance or surrounded by friends. He still wasnt ready to simply walk up and talk to her in front of a bunch of other people.
The day after thebat test, he spent the first half of the day meditating. He decided to save the Concentrated Mm Pill forter use, as his chamber of energy wasnt so empty that he needed it. For the rest of the day, he focused on the Asgagu Sebum rune.
When it came to spellcasting, the rune was in some ways the most important aspect of all. Without mastery of it, the spell simply wouldnt work.
There was more to a rune than just the lines that made it up. One needed to understand the deeper meaning behind the symbol, its etymological history, how the various elements of the rune rted to mm, and of course, the proper way to draw it.
The study of runes generally fell into three stages. The first was purely academic, and involved reading and study. Xerxes was only just making a foray into the second stage.
In front of him on the table was a wax writing pad and a stylus. Staring down at it, he muttered some of the mnemoics designed to aid in the writing.
The curve of the cloud, strength spoken aloud,
Narrow then thicken, thy foes shall be stricken.
With utmost care, he held his breath and carved the first stroke of the rune into the wax. Lifting the stylus, he exhaled, then looked down at the stroke. He tilted his head.
No, he murmured. Too heavy on the downstroke.
The upside to practicing with wax tablets was that mistakes didnt cost anything. Sooner orter, he would move on to pen and ink, which was much more costly in general, especially if you ended up making a lot of mistakes.
The third stage was the most difficult, and involvedbining the understanding of the rune with ones meditation routine. Eventually, when a magepletely mastered all aspects of a rune, they could then transcribe it using any tool. A twig, a pebble, a finger. At that high level, the medium didnt matter either. Whether it was paper, sand, or a gel, the mage could capture the essence of the rune at will.
That was when the mage could use the rune to cast spells reliably.
Over the countless years in which mages had studied the orders of magic, there were time frames that were generally epted as ideal for studying individual runes. For example, the Asgagu Isten rune that Seers used to cast Singr Lethality generally took only a few months of study to master. Sometimes five. Sometimes seven. Regardless, it didnt take years.
But the more advanced the magic, the more difficult the rune.
When Xerxes reached the High Seer level, he would have two new spells avable to him, and thus, two new runes he could master.
The first rune was Asgagu Sanum, and it could be used to cast Double Lethality. Double Lethality was not much different than Singr Lethality; the difference being that the mage could empower two of their extremities instead of just one. The mostmon variations were two hands, or a hand and a foot. Two feet was possible, but the applications were extremely limited, and thus, rarely seen. Whicheverbination was used, it was a significant improvement over the lesser version of the spell.
The second rune was Asgagu Sebum, which was used to cast the spell Minor Augmentation, the first spell in a line of magic designed to imbue weapons with power. By sessfully casting Minor Augmentation, he could transform sections of his longsword in the same way he transformed his fist with Singr Lethality. Given the years of study hed put into the weapon, and the progress hed madetely under Rabyas tutge, he could hardly wait until that moment arrived.
Unfortunately, the difference between the Asgagu Sanum rune and the Asgagu Sebum rune was vast. Simply put, the body-augmentation runes were easier to learn, while the weapon-augmenting runes were more difficult.
The rune connected to Double Lethality, though more difficult than the inferior Singluar Lethality rune, would take about a year of study for Xerxes to master, if he chose to pursue it. In contrast, the rune for Minor Augmentation required years. Some of it rted to the quality of the study material, as well as the quality of the time spent on study. But there was no getting around the fact that it required time. Xerxes didnt care. He didnt want to waste time studying the Asgagu Sanum rune, and instead wanted to devote every minute and second of study to preparing for Minor Augmentation. And knowing that, hed begun his study of Asgagu Sebum almost immediately after mastering Asgagu Isten.
Xerxes had to admit there was a huge upside to focusing on study and meditation; time went by quickly. In fact, he got so wrapped up that he nearly missed his interview time slot. It was only Gandash entering the dorm after his ownbat test and saying, Arent you supposed to be at the interview now? that ensured he made it on time.
Even then, he had to run through the halls like a madman, and slid to a stop in front of the door panting for breath with only seconds to spare.
The interviewees were the same mages who had officiated over hisbat test.
He was expecting some sort of psychological interrogation. Instead, it was mostly mundane.
It says here you were born in a neighborhood called Harborview, said Archon Shabadras. What kind of a ce is that?
Poor, Xerxes said, still struggling to control his breathing after running across campus. Rundown. Kind of a dead-end ce that people want to get out of. I basically grew up there.
But your father was Sighted, correct? The local government didnt offer him a job?
Not at first. Im not sure about everywhere else, but on Mannemid they dont really care about you until you form a chamber of energy. And it took Dad a long time. In fact, he only seeded a few years before I became Sighted. Even then, he studied Asgagu, because that was all he could afford at the time in terms of materials and books. Except, Dad doesnt have a martial arts background, so trying to be abat mage was rough for him. It wasnt helped by the fact that things have been peaceful on Mannemid for a while.
And what was your training like at the Mage Academy?
Of course, they inquired about the invasion.
When Xerxes thought about how badly hed performed on the written test, he tried to paint himself in the best possible light. He worked hard to sell the positive aspects of the fight that ended with Bels loss. It was hard, as Bels face kept popping into his mind. Her look of terror when the Abhorrent grabbed her. Her final scream. Toward the end, Xerxes wasnt sure how he got through the story without choking up, while simultaneously making himself look good. But he did it.
When it came to the events in the capital, he made sure to go into detail about everybat situation. The sh in Harborview. The time he and his father helped wipe out the spawn.
ording to the report from High Mystic Purattu, Archon Shabadras said, you were instrumental in the climactic battle with the stage five juvenile Abhorrent. Do you mind exining the situation from your perspective?
In reality, it had been Gandash who had taken the lead when Aban Saddi seemed to falter in hismand. But Xerxes felt that the best option was to amp up his own role as much as possible.
Well, everything was going fine until High Seer Ninsunu turned out to be a traitor. You know about that part, right?
Of course. After yourbat test, we took a close look at your information. Im particrly interested in your dealings with the Eternal Father cultists.
Okay. Well, she was in bestial form when she took down Aban Saddi. Completely out of nowhere. That was when I knew somebody had to step up and take charge. I gave orders for Seer Ataneedusu to take care of the Abhorrent spawn.
By Seer Ataneedusu, you mean your father?
Er, right. Anyway, Ninsunu was going crazy. Just screaming and yelling in the Abhorrentnguage. At the time, I was pretty sure she was working with that giant monster to try to destroy the whole city. I knew I had to stop her. Now remember, she was a High Seer. Combine that with her bestial form, and she was way, way stronger than me. I knew it was probably a death sentence to take her on, but there was literally nobody else who could do it.
What about your father?
Like I mentioned before, hes not exactly an elite warrior. Besides, how could I let my own dad go into danger? If something happened to him, who would take care of my mom and sister? So I said, Dad, this might be thest thing I say to you, but, I love you. Tell Mom and Ahassy I love them too. Ahassy is my sister. Her full name is Ahassunu. Shes just a kid, and she loves dolphins. Anyway, after I told my father what I thought might be myst words, I turned and started running through the smoke and fire.
Fire?
Just about the whole area was burning. I could barely breathe.
Shabadrass looked at the papers in front of him. High Mystic Purattu didnt mention that in his report.
Xerxes gulped. By the time he showed up we were in a different area. Anyway, I was pretty sure I was going to die, but that didnt stop me. I ignored the fire and managed to get up on a rooftop. Thankfully I had enough running room to build up some momentum there. Thats when.
The interviewers had almostpletely unreadable expressions the entire time, making it difficult to determine how they were reacting to his story.
He finished the session with mixed feelings. Had he gone too far in trying to talk himself up? Wasnt that the point of the interview, to make yourself look good?
Chapter 35: A Big Announcement (2)
Chapter 35: A Big Announcement (2)
The next day at morning assembly, an announcement was made that caused a stir among all of the Seers.
Thest of the interviews will be conducted this afternoon, High Archon Sabadras said. The results will be announced first thing next week. Please make sure to attend tomorrows morning assembly, as there will be a special announcement.
The High Archons teasing of a special announcement had the intended effect, as virtually everyone gathered early on the Sixthday morning assembly.
In his haste to find a spot, Xerxes couldnt find Gandash, but instead found himself standing next to Jad.
What do you think its about? Jad whispered. What if theyre sending us off to fight the Abhorrent already!
No way, Xerxes replied. I bet theyre announcing some of the assessment results early. Like for the ones who did really well.
Neither of them were correct.
In order to reward you after this week of testing, said High Archon Kingallu, you are being given a chance to rx before theing rigors of intensive study and training. By means of a banquet!
A ripple of excited exmations rose in the crowd.
Finally, Jad said. Something fun!
There will be food, the High Archon went on, wine, singing, dancing, and more. Of course, given the asion, youll need to wear your finest clothing.
Xerxes heart immediately sank. Hed brought formal clothing, but it was the same outfit hed worn at Ligish Castle, which was a hand-me-down from his father. Hed had nopunctions wearing that outfit in a tiny castle in the wilderness. But to a banquet on Sin-Amuhhu? There was no way.
We know that not all of you brought such clothing with you, the High Archon continued. So youll receive double your regr stipend at the conclusion of this assembly, and will be allowed to leave the school to go to the nearest marketce.
A round of cheering erupted, and Xerxes joined in.
Afterward, Kingallu said, You will stay within walking distance of the school, and will return before the lunch hour. Do not hire horses, carriages, or use any other means of transportation to travel farther than you could go by walking.
The nearest marketce is the G Bazaar, a quarter-league to the east. Many of the vendors there cater to mage aesthetics, and you should be able to find a wide variety of formal garments. Stay away from the areas to the south and west of the school, as theyre primarily residential. There are many small shops and restaurants to the north, but remember, you must return before lunch, so do not lose track of time and returnte. Any who are not back by the appointed time will lose the privilege of attending the banquet, and will be subject to additional punishments.
Any questions? No? Well, enjoy your morning, and well see you in the main hall this evening at the seventeenth hour.
The Seers all rushed to get in line to get their stipend, and some of the young mages literally sprinted back to the dorms after getting their allowance.
Xerxes didnt run, but he didnt stroll either. He got back to the dorm room before Gandash, and took the opportunity to open the box that contained his spending money and stare at the gold and silver.
How much should I take? he thought. He knew that he needed to buy a new garment, but he had no idea how much it would cost. He wasnt very up-to-date on prices back on Mannemid, let alone here on Sin-Amuhhu. Knowing that Gandash would show up any minute, and not wanting his friend to see his stash of money, he slipped out six shekels of silver and added them to the four the school had just provided. I doubt Ill spend this much, but I really want to go all out. I need to make sure Katayoun notices me from across the entire campus!
He got the shekels into a small carrying pouch just before Gandash returned.
Can you believe it? Gandash said. This is going to be incredible!
I bet it is, Xerxes said. Are you nning to go to the market?
Of course!
Xerxes watched as his friend slid a chest out from under his bed, unlocked it, and flipped the lid back. Xerxes jaw clenched as he saw what was inside. Numerous neatly arranged stacks of gold and silver shekels. He looked away; his friend obviously had a lot more than he did. Not that it was a surprise.
Gandash took out a handful of money and threw it into a pouch. I think Im going to invest in some new bracers. The formal kind, you know? And probably some boots. Have you seen the kind the Archons wear, the ones where the front part curls up in front of the toes? I have to have some like that.
Xerxes hadnt noticed such footwear, but not wanting to sound ignorant, he said, Oh, that kind. Yeah.
Come on, lets go!
Gandash dragged Xerxes out of the school and down the street to the east.
There were carriages everywhere, as well as horses, pedestrians, vendors, soldiers, and beggars. Xerxes felt like his neck was going to be sore from all the looking around. But Gandash kept them moving at a quick pace toward the bazaar.
It was a grander market than anything Xerxes had seen before. He stepped through the main gate into the area with vendor tables, tarps, tents, and the like. How big was this ce? There seemed no end to the pathways.
As he walked along, a conglomeration of scents and sounds met him. He caught a whiff of leather from a shop that sold belts and bags, and then a faint, musty aroma as they passed a stall with stacks upon stacks of cotton cloth. He turned his head when he heard yelling, only to realize it was nothing more than a friendly negotiation. And then he heard tinkling sounds from a shop that specialized in ss beads.
It only took about fifteen minutes to slip away from Gandash. While his friend was looking through some silver jewelry, Xerxes said, Im going to check out something over here. Be right back.
Then he ducked around a corner and walked as quickly as possible through three or four intersections before looking around to see if Gandash was trying to catch up. He wasnt.
Finally, he thought. Now I can look around without moneybags peering over my shoulder the entire time. So, where do I start? Robe first? Or hat?
Chapter 36: I Lost Something (1)
Chapter 36: I Lost Something (1)
Xerxes returned to the schoolden with an armful of packages and bundles. He hadnt encountered any fellow students during his entire shopping trip. The G Bazaar was that huge.
He spent a lot more money than hed intended and returned without a single shekel in his pouch, only a handful of minas. Tossing the remaining money back in the box with the shekels, he tore open the packages andid his new outfit on the bed.
A new mage hat, white and cylindrical, crafted from the finest felt, embroidered with silver thread, and decorated with cowrie shells. A brand new robe of ovepping white, maroon, and aqua, also heavily embroidered, and with a decorative fringe of yellow that his old robecked. Most impressive of all was the girdle, expertly made from tanned goatskin and burnished bronze, with a pattern of embedded jewels that hed found particrly eye-catching.
In addition, hed managed to find a few pieces of jewelry, including a hefty thumb ring, a ne, and a bracer.
In terms of footwear, hed run out of time, but more importantly, money.
For a time, he was content to just look at everythingying there together. This was definitely the finest and most expensive outfit hed ever possessed.
Damn, Im impressed! Gandash said, backing through the doorden with packages of his own. Thats a nicebination. I had no idea you knew so much about fashion.
Xerxes tilted his chin up. I have my moments. Say, whered you get off to back there? One minute you were next to me, the next you vanished.
I was going to ask the same thing.
Hunh. Guess we just got separated.
Gandash threw his packages onto his bed and then stepped over to take a closer look at Xerxes haul. Nice thread count, he murmured, rubbing the fabric of the robe between his fingers. I like the bronze work on the girdle.
After a bit more inspection, he turned and smacked Xerxes on the shoulder. The red-head is going to notice you for sure.
Xerxes instinctivelyughed, but almost immediately cut himself off and cleared his throat. I dont know what you mean.
Gandashughed softly. Sure you dont. By the way, check out the hat I got.
Unwrapping the package, he showed Xerxes a white mage hat with golden embroidery.
Is that an elephant on the front? Xerxes asked, peering closer.
Preening a bit, Gandash held the hat out for him to look at closer. Yeah. Slick, huh?
Xerxes took the hat and looked at it closer. The craftsmanship was indeed superb. Nice.
As Gandash continued opening packages, he said, Xerk Im d were here.
Huh?
He stopped unpacking for a moment. I mean, I havent forgotten everything on Mannemid. All the his jaw tightened briefly never mind. I just want to say Im d were here together. Best friends.
Xerxes smiled and sat down on his bed. Yeah, I know what you mean. Kind of like back when we became Sighted and went to the Mage Academy for the first time.
Gandash smiled. Yeah. Were. He hesitated, clearly struggling for words.
Were what?
Keeping his eyes on a package as he ripped it open, Gandash said, Well always be friends, right? No matter what?
Of course!
Alright.
The burst of emotion confused Xerxes. He must be stressed out because of the test results.
Say, Xerk, this is our first banquet on Sin-Amuhhu. Do you know how they handle toasts here?
The same as on Mannemid?
Gandash groaned. No. No, no, no. Okay, let me exin.
In the remaining hours before the event began, Gandash proceeded to give Xerxes an extensive lesson in local banquet etiquette. Soon, the hour of the banquet approached, and they headed in the direction of the main hall.
By chance, the first people they encountered in the corridor were Jad and Enusat.
Hey, looking sharp, Xerk-man, Jad said. His outfit was suitably extravagant, and Xerxes was particrly jealous that he had rings on every single one of his fingers.
You too, Jad, Xerxes said.
Enusats outfit was just as fancy, and though he had no rings, hed triple-folded the sleeves of his robe, which was thetest fashion on the streets of Sin-Amuhhu. Cant say the same about you, Gandash, Enusat said.
Gandash looked down at his outfit. Huh? What do you mean?
Jad snicker. Not the robe. The hat. I dont know about Mannemid, but where wee from, if you wear a hat with an elephant on it, it means well never mind.
Enusatughed. Its not just where wee from. Elephant cap means the same thing ere, too. I eard some people in the bazaar say it.
His voice quieter than before and somewhat tremulous, Gandash said, What does it mean?
Both Jad and Enusat stopped walking, forcing Gandash and Xerxes to do the same.
You really dont know? Jad asked.
Laughing even harder, Enusat looked up and down the hallway, grabbed his crotch, and moved his hips rhythmically. Gandash, sending out the signals to thedies!
The sight of Enusat doing something so ridiculous caused a chuckle to rise up in Xerxes throat. Then his eyes flickered to Gandash, and his friends difort was so obvious he felt bad.
Jads previous snicker turned into outrightughter. I doubt any girls are going to be asking ol Randy Gandy out after tonight, though! Girls usually steer clear of pervs, right?
Enusats eyes went wide with delight. Randy Gandy? Randy Gandy! I like it!
He joined Jad to roar withughter. Gandash was visibly wilting, but Xerxes, feeling a bit infected by their mood, also chortled.
Meanwhile, Gandashs neck had turned bright red, and the flush was creeping up toward his ears. I y-you you do know that in the ancient texts the root word for elephant
Jade threw his arm around Gandashs shoulders, and pulled him down the corridor. Say no more, Randy Gandy. Were just joking around. Were all friends here, right?
Enusat walked after them, and Xerxes followed up.
Er right, Gandash said.
But seriously, Enusat said. An elephant hat? Please tell me your grandma got it for you or something?
Jad and Enusat continued tough and tease Gandash all the way to the main hall. Xerxes didnt like seeing his friend so out of sorts, but at the same time, didnt want to cause friction with the others. Once inside, Gandash immediately slipped away from the group. Xerxes made to follow, but Jad grabbed his arm.
Xerk-man, arent you going to sit with the Humusi Swordsmasters? Come on, the club was your idea!
Right, Xerxes said.
And that was how he ended up at a table with Jad, Enusat, Kashtiliash and Teucer. Gandash sat on the other side of the room with some people Xerxes vaguely recognized but didnt know the names of.
Of course, from the moment Xerxes entered the hall, he had his eye out for Katayoun. Unfortunately, she picked a table equally far away as Gandashs, with so many other tables in between that it was almost impossible to see her.
The banquet was nothing short of spectacr. Appetizers and non-alocholic drinks were served, whereupon an acrobatic performance took ce. Feats of juggling and tumbling were carried out that provoked wild apuse over and over again. After the acrobatics was a dance. The dancers were so lithe and sensuous that, for a moment, Xerxespletely forgot about Katayoun on the other side of the room.
Next came the main course, and there was so much food that it boggled the mind. Meat of oxen, sheep, deer, gazelle, pigeon, turtle doves, and others that Xerxes had never heard of. Dishes with honey, pistachios, roasted grain, dates, and cheese. Breads. Spices.
And then came the alcohol.
There were ales, wines, and distilled liquors the names of which Xerxes immediately forgot.
The Archons led quite a few toasts for the entire room, at which point Xerxes was d he understood Sin-Amuhhu toasting customs. Not everyone in the room did. Of course, there was toasting at the table level as well. Jad, Enusat, and Tuecer were all drinkers, and Xerxes didnt want to stick out as different, so he matched them for every drink and toast. Before the second round of performances began, he was already feeling a bit dizzy, despite having eaten so much food.
The second performance featured a menagerie, with animals not only from Sin-Amuhhu, but also from distant starisles. Creatures with long necks and short necks, spots and stripes, ws and fangs, wings and tails. Following the menagerie were martial arts performances that Xerxes found especially intriguing.
Next, we have a master of the Epitome from Sin-Erimmatu, shouted the master of ceremonies. Hell perform feats of swordy and martial arts that will dazzle you and leave you breathless!
The members of the Humsui Swordsmasters cheered so loudly that their voices grew distinctively hoarser during the course of their outcry. And the Sin-Erimmatu swordsman didnt disappoint. His mastery of the longsword surpassed anything Xerxes had seen, and left him longing for more.
By the time the third course of food and alcohol was served, Xerxes finally had to dismiss himself to answer a call of nature. Ill be right back, he said, his head spinning a bit as he rose.
On the way back a few minutester, he rounded a corner into the middle of a fifty-cubit-long corridor with marble floor tiles and human-sized decorative vases. To the right was the main hall, but after catching motion out of the corner of his eye, he looked left.
Someone crouched at the far end of the corridor, near the wall, close to the doorway. Someone with red hair.
Chapter 36: I Lost Something (2)
Chapter 36: I Lost Something (2)
No way.Of the roughly two hundred mages in their ss, only one had red hair.
He paused for a moment trying to decide what to do. Is there really a reason to think about it?
Taking a deep breath, he started walking toward her. About halfway, he saw Katayoun stand from her crouching position, then turn around.
His breath caught in his throat. This was the first time during the evening hed seen her close up. Women from Mannemid to Sin-Amuhhu liked to arrange their hair in tightly curled and oiled braids, but Katayoun was different. Her hair was bound by a bronze tiara, and had two loose braids on either side of the head, with the rest of her locks tumbling around her like flowingva.
She wore a tightly-fitting inner dress of violet and pale blue brocade, with a golden fringe. Over it was a golden outer garment with violet fringe. She had golden bands around her upper arms, bracelets around her wrists, and rings on fingers and toes alike. The curve of her bosom was hinted at by the tightness of her dress, but what really drew Xerxes in was her makeup.
The female mages werent allowed to wear makeup while attending sses or doing training. But tonight, they had all painted their faces.
Katayouns eyelids were a violet as brilliant as the fabric of her garment, ented by a dramatic, winged line of ck going all the way to her temples. Her lips were avender color that took his breath away, and most eye-catching of all was how her face sparkled as if it wereposed of infinite diamonds.
He stopped short a few paces from her, having unwittingly allowed his jaw to drop.
It took a fraction of a moment for him to realize that her eyes were glistening. Not her eyelids and other parts of her face, but her actual eyes.
Shes crying, he thought. Or shes about to.
When they made eye contact, she gasped slightly and took half a step back.
Sorry, he said. I just I saw you over here I was thinking you might need
I lost something, she said, her voice trembling in what seemed to be desperation. A small handkerchief appeared, previously concealed in her right hand, which she used to dab at her eyes. And then she looked away from him to scan the ground around her.
You lost something? he said. He immediately cursed himself for repeating her words back at her.
My earring, she said as she subconsciously fingered her left earlobe. Looking at it, he saw the distinctck of any jewelry there.
Tearing his eyes away from her, he also scanned the ground around them. Whats it look like? he said. Ill help you find it.
Its a pearl in a silver setting. Nothing amazing, but my grandmother gave it to my mother, and she gave it to me, and I wore it for the first time tonight because I thought it would be good to have it on a special night, but I never thought it would just fall off, I mean I was careful, but when I went to freshen up and came back it was gone, and if its really lost then I might as well have just betrayed my entire family, and I dont know what Ill do, I mean, Im just going to have to
Hey, he interrupted gently, and she finally looked up and into his eyes.
W-what? she stammered.
He took a step forward and reached out with the intention of touching her shoulder. But it felt wrong, so he closed his hand and extended his index finger straight up. Listen, he said, emphasizing his words with his finger. Were going to find the earring. Okay?
She blinked and used the handkerchief to prevent any tears from ruining her makeup. Okay.
You and me, got it? Now, do you remember anything that might give a clue when it fell off?
I remember touching it when I walked out of the dining hall, she said. But after that no.
Okay. Did you already look behind the vases?
No.
He tilted his head to the side and gave her a seriously? look. Well, that seems like a good ce to start. Ill check this side he gestured at the vases on the right side and you do the other side. Okay?
Yeah.
He stepped over to one of the nearby vases and knelt as best he could without touching his knees to the ground, which would have sullied his robe. He peered at the shadowy area behind the vase, but couldnt see a thing, so he swept his hands on the marble floor. They immediately became caked with dust.
Ugh, he thought. Dont they ever clean behind here? This is Sin-Amuhhu, for the Monads sake!
After checking thoroughly behind the vase, he looked at his dusty hands, then his brand new robe. With nowhere to wipe his hands, he smacked them against each other to get some of the dust off, then moved to the next vase. Along the way, he nced over at Katayoun to see her using her toe to probe the shadowy area behind her vase.
The second of the vases didnt have an earring behind it. Nor did the third.
A group of Seers walked through the hallway around then, two young men supporting a third between them who lookedpletely drunk.
The fourth vase had no earring. But the fifth did.
Got it! he yelled, a lot louder than he intended, as he held the piece of jewelry between his thumb and forefinger and stood up.
The group of three Seers whod just walked past paused and looked back at them.
Carry on! Xerxes shouted as Katayoun hopped toward him excitedly.
You really found it? she said.
Unless someone else lost a pearl earring, he said, extending it toward her.
Thank the Pontifarch, she said. After looking at it closely, she tucked it into her garment. Well, Im not going to put it on again, I can tell you that. Seemingly for the first time, she looked him in the eye. You look familiar.
Im Xerxes, he said, trying to put on the shiest grin he could manage.
Xerxes, she replied. Well, thank you for this. Im not going to forget it. Im Ka
Katayoun, he said, interrupting her.
Her brow furrowed and she looked at him with a strange expression. Oh, weve met?
Idiot, he screamed at himself. You sound like some sort of creep! Wait. I actually have met her!
Remember that thing with the soupst week?
She thought for a moment, thenughed. That was you?
I hate to admit it, but yeah.
Okay. Xerxes, Xerxes, Xerxes. Ill remember. She gave him another long look. Well as I said, I wont forget this. You saved my life. And she leaned forward and hugged him.
Chapter 37: Assessment Results (1)
Chapter 37: Assessment Results (1)
After Katayoun pulled away from him, he apanied her back to the main hall. He badly wanted to reach out and sp her hand, but knew that was a crazy thought. They stopped outside the doors.
Thanks again, Xerxes, she said, smiling at him.
No problem.
From now on, just call me Kat.
Okay. And you call me Xerk.
She pushed the door open, and the sound of the revelries rolled over them. Have fun the rest of the evening.
You too.
Then she was hurrying back to her table. He watched her go, then strolled back to his friends.
Did that just really happen? he wondered. A troupe of jugglers had the attention of the crowd, so his friends didnt say much as he sat back down. He kept thinking about the embrace. Reliving it. Wishing it hadsted longer.
More food came. More alcohol. As it turned out, the Archons really knew how to drink, and they didnt discourage the students from doing so. Slowly but surely, he got wrapped up in the fun of the banquet. The hall grew louder and louder as evening stretched into night. There were more performances. Speeches. Singing. The alcohol and food never seemed to stoping. Eventually, the toasting started to hit home, and things got fuzzy for Xerxes.
Guys, Im about to pass out, he said.
Aww,e on! Enusat said, his speech slurred. One more round.
No, really, I cant
Jad threw an arm around Xerxes shoulders, and with his free hand, held up a tankard of ale. One more, Xerk-man! To the Humusi Swordmasters!
To us! Teucer said.
Xerxes reached out to his own tankard. Alright, fine. To the Swordmasters!
It wasnt just one round. It was three or four. Eventually, Xerxes stumbled back to his dorm room. Gandash was already sprawled out snoring when Xerxes copsed into his bed.
He was no stranger to alcohol, and had been to his fair share of banquets back on Mannemid. But never had he imbued so much at one time.
For about an hour after waking, hey groaning in bed, until Gandash dragged him to the dining hall. His stomach didnt seem interested in epting food, but he forced down some savory broth and a few bites of bread. Eating made him feel a little bit better. A little bit better.
He wasnt the only Seer who was suffering. Most trudged instead of walked, slumped instead of sat, and croaked instead of talked. The previous night was clearly the grandest banquet any of them had ever attended.
By lunchtime, Xerxes headache had shrunk into a minor throbbing in the back of his skull, and his stomach had mostly settled. Still, all he felt like doing wasying in bed.
I told you to stop drinking, Gandash said.
You did? I dont remember.
Whats the point of having a day of rest if you need to spend the whole thing sicker than a dog?
Xerxes sat up slowly and massaged his temples. Dont be such a grandma.
Whatever. Im going to the library.
Ill probably stay in bed for a bit longer.
See you.
As the afternoon wore on, Xerxes felt better. Eventually, he dered himself recovered.
His first inclination was to find Katayoun. He started at the library, where he avoided Gandash so he wouldnt be roped into studying. He spotted no strand of red hair there, or in the halls. He prowled the grounds after that, but still couldnt find her.
Finally, he went to the small clearing in the forest, and sure enough, the Humusi Swordmasters were there. At least, some were.
Kashtiliash and Jad bothy with their backs on boulders, soaking in the afternoon sun. Off to the side was the bag with the practice swords and other gear, untouched.
Hey, Xerxes said.
Jad cracked an eye open. Xerk-man. How you feeling?
Mostly recovered. You?
Got a ways to go. We kept drinking after we got to our roomst night.
Xerxes found a spot next to Jad and leaned back, enjoying the warmth radiating into him from the sun overhead and from the rock at his back. You gotta be kidding me.
He isnt, Kashtiliash said. He still hadnt opened his eyes. I was there.
Jad chuckled. Can you believe what happened with Randy Gandy?
What happened? Xerxes asked.
You forgot? He got in a yelling match with some guy. Almost started fighting until a teacher pulled them apart.
Gandys always been a bit of an angry drunk.
Apparently, Kashtiliash said.
The three of themy quietly in the sun for a while. At a certain point, Xerxes dozed off.
He woke when Enusat appeared, shuffling loudly through the barrier of trees.
Why did I finish the bottlest night? the short mage groaned, flopping into the grass in the middle of the clearing.
Shouldve listened to me, Kashtiliash said.
Jad chuckled. Youll be fine. Builds character. A few minutes passed. You guys ready for the results tomorrow?
No, Enusat said.
Totally, Xerxes said. He stretched his arms, then put his hands behind his neck. I think my performance in thebat part will outweigh the written test. Im pretty confident Ill get an officermission.
Kashtiliash grunted. Good luck.
Jad heaved himself off the rock, stood, and shook out his limbs. I heard thatter on, the officers get to pick who theymand. If you make it, Xerk-man, you have to make sure to take care of us.
Wait, Xerxes said, even youre not confident of getting amission?
Jad shrugged and walked over to pick out a wooden practice sword. Dont think so. Im not a schr like Randy Gandy.
Enusatughed. I still cant believe he wore that stupid elephant hat.
Xerxes still didntpletely understand the elephant hat thing, but he wasnt about to reveal his ignorance. Thats Gandy for you, he said. Hes always had his nose stuck in books.
It shows, Jad said. Hey, want to warm up and do some sparring?
Sure.
Chapter 37: Assessment Results (2)
Chapter 37: Assessment Results (2)
Xerxes spent the rest of the evening with the Swordmasters crew, never running into either Katayoun or Gandash.
In fact, it wasnt until he was snug under the covers that he saw his friend. Gandash slipped into the dorm room shortly before lights-out, with a pile of books in his arms.
Hey, Xerk.
Hey, Gandy. Have a nice day studying?
Yep. Gandash set about organizing his belongings, folding clothing items and stacking the books neatly on the desk before wrapping them together with twine.
Xerxes eyed him. Uh, whats going on? You going somewhere?
The assessment resultse in tomorrow. Remember, they said these were temporary quarters. Might as well be ready to leave.
Oh, good point. Xerxes didnt move.
A few minutester, Gandash finished his work, turned themp off just as the bell rang, andy down. Xerk?
Yeah?
Do you ever think about? He stopped. You know. Gem. Rihan. Ap. He hesitated. And Bel.
Xerxes eyes opened wide. Of course I do. All the time.
Okay. It just seems like, sometimes, youre so happy. Like you forgot about all that.
Gandy, I havent forgotten. But at the same time, I dont want it to you know, define me.
Gandash nodded but didnt say anything.
Xerxes slowly sat up in bed. Gandy, I miss Bel a lot. I know you miss her more than me, but. he trailed off, not sure which direction to take the conversation. Anyway, I miss her. And us. The three of us at the Mage Academy, even on the road. Causing trouble. Having fun.
The truth was that he hadnt been thinking about Gem and Bel much. Or about how Seer Fale had talked about going back to get Bels body. Or how Captain Ishki had promised to personally hunt down the men whod killed Gem.
Fale and Ishki can handle all that, he told himself. Ill visit Bels grave next time Im back on Mannemid. Every day.
Except now, thoughts of blood and white tentacles upied his mind. He closed his eyes and shook his head. Inhaled. Exhaled. But for some reason, the memories of the horrors on Mannemid made it difficult to say anything further.
Gandash turned in bed. I just cant stop thinking about how much Bel wouldve loved this ce. It was her dream to leave Mannemid. But she never got to.
We all had that dream, Xerxes said. And we cant do anything to bring her back. But we can honor her memory. Maybe its stupid to say, but I think shed want you to enjoy this time. Do well. Advance. Be an officer. All that.
Silence stretched out a bit, and Xerxesy back down on the pillow.
A minuteter, Gandash spoke again, this time his voice muted to the point where Xerxes had to strain to hear him clearly. I feel really lonely sometimes.
Xerxes turned, and even in the gloom of the dorm, he could see his friends cheeks glistening. Hes crying? he thought.
Im sorry, Gandy, he said. I know you miss Bel.
Its not that, Gandash replied quickly. Its just, this ce is so weird and new. I dont know anybody. I mean, other than you.
I saw you talking to some people at the banquet. Who are they?
Gandash shifted position in bed. Just some people. But I dont really feel like making new friends.
Wait, Xerxes thought, is he jealous because Im making new friends? Not quite sure what Gandash was getting at, he said, If you dont want to make friends, then dont. Its fine.
You still like me, right? Gandash said.
Xerxes resisted the urge to sit up again. What? Are you kidding? Gandy, weve been best friends for years. Even before we were Sighted. Nothing can change that.
Right.
Dont worry, Gandy. You and I are like brothers. And we always will be.
Their conversation ended there. It only took a few minutes before Gandash was snoring. But Xerxes mind had been stirred into activity. All of a sudden, he was gued with thoughts about Bel, Gem, Rihan, Goran, and even Ninsunu and Alwin.
He couldnt banish memories of blood, gore, and the stench of Abhorrent.
And the worst of all was Bels scream as she fell to her death.
It took a long time to fall asleep.
It was Firstday, but the morning assembly was different. After the morning prayer, High Archon Kingallu said, The time hase to announce the results of the assessments. Something we didnt mention beforehand is that failure was a possibility. Anyone whose average results fell below a certain mark would be sent back down to the lower starisles.
An anxious rustle went through the crowd, until the High Archon said, Thankfully no one failed.
Sighs of relief could be heard everywhere.
The purpose of the assessments was to identify which Seers have the most potential to serve as officers, andmand other mages on the battlefield. They also served to inform us of your skillset and ce you into the proper ss groups. Of the two hundred and eight of you who came up from the starisles subsidiary to Ira, weve selected thirteen to receive immediatemissions and receive special training.
If you hear your name called, please step up to the podium.
Janoah of Dumusi.
Dan of Al-Ga.
Xerxes didn''t recognize the names. It didnt take long before he realized that only one person per starisle was being called. No, the High Archon named two mages from Ashlultum. Still, that fact made something else clear: the odds of both him and Gandash receiving officermissions were slim.
I definitely outdid him inbat, Xerxes thought. They want warriors here, not schrs. Theres a good chance Ill be the one
Gandash of Humusi.
Shacharia of Ga.
And finally Candraketu of Harmu. Now, will all the other Seers please give a warm round of apuse for the newly appointed officers.
Xerxes found himself pping as Gandash threaded his way to the front of the crowd, and then climbed onto the podium with the other twelve new officers. In terms of the other eleven, a couple seemed familiar to Xerxes, but he hadnt met any of them. That said, he wasnt paying close attention. He was just looking at his friend, who was trying hard to not grin like a fool, yet failing.
Damn, Xerxes thought. His heart felt oddly empty. I was sure my fighting skills would push me to the top.
The apuse faded.
Now, High Archon Kingallu said, the newly appointed officers wille with me. The rest of you can return to your rooms and pack your belongings. Youll be moving to the dorms in the west wing of the main building. Youll find an envelope in your current rooms with your name on it. In the envelope are details of your new amodations, your primary teacher, and the ssroom to report to.
ss schedule will be the same as before. Lectures in the morning. Practical training in the afternoon.
And theres one more thing. Before the first lecture with your new teacher, theres an extremely important bit of confidential information to be revealed. In order to keep this information confidential, you must take a blood oath of loyalty to the Sin-Amuhhu military, including a vow of silence regarding the new information. And what that means is dont bete to ss!
You have one hour to pack, move dorms, and get to your assigned ssroom.
Good luck, Seers!
Chapter 38: Mystic Rabya (1)
Chapter 38: Mystic Rabya (1)
Xerxes trudged numbly back to his room after hearing the announcement. He felt happy for Gandash. A little bit. But at the same time, he felt a vaguely ufortable prickling sensation in his heart.
Opening the door, he found a brown envelope sealed with wax. The front had his name on it. Inside was a folded piece of parchment paper.
Seer Xerxes,
You have been assigned to dorm room 372.
Your primary teacher is Mystic Rabya in the ck Jackal ssroom.
Good luck.
He crumpled the paper and envelope together and threw them in the waste bin. Then he started tossing his belongings together.
My teachers a Mystic? he thought. Thats it?
He felt a bit let down. All of the recent lectures and training had been by Archons, or the headmaster himself, who was a High Archon, leading him to assume his teacher would be one of them. His mood dipped. Were all the teachers lowly Mystics, or was it just his teacher?
Guess Ill find out soon enough.
Gandashs belongings were already gone. Had the school sent people to handle that? Was his friend already getting special treatment?
He suddenly thought back to his conversation with Purattu not too long ago.
I guess its better to be an officer? Xerxes had asked.
Yes, Purattu had answered. If nothing else, the pay is better.
His lips tightened. Good job, Gandy. Getting richer by the day, I see.
The halls were busy as students packed their belongings and headed to their new sleeping quarters. When he stepped into dorm room 372, a grin appeared on his face.
Xerk? said Enusat, peeping over the edge of one of the top bunks. Xerk! Youre with us?
Jad was there, unpacking his belongings. And Kashtiliash was already in one of the bottom bunks, his head on the pillow.
The Humusi Swordmasters? Xerxes said. Together in one room? This is going to be amazing.
Swordmasters minus one, Kashtiliash said.
Enusat tapped his chin. Right, Teucer aint ere.
Xerxes threw his pack onto the only free bunk, the one above Kashtiliash. I guess this ones mine.
The room was small. In fact, it hardly seemedrger than the one hed previously shared with Gandash, except this one had bunk beds. And the study tables were smaller.
Noticing him sizing up the room, Jad said, Not the most spacious ce Ive been in.
Kashtiliash grunted again. Could be worse.
Xerxes climbed thedder and sat on the top bunk. His hair brushed the ceiling. At least we Swordmasters are all together, right? How much longer do we have before the lecture starts?
Just like the temporary room from before, there was a timepiece above the doorway. ncing at it, Jad said, Fifteen minutes. Probably shouldnt bete for the first ss, huh?
We should find the ssroom, Enusat said, and make sure we get good seats. In the back.
Jad and Kashtiliashughed.
And yet, thats exactly what they did. The ck Jackal ssroom was at the end of the hall on the second floor. At the front were a lectern and a wide table. The rest of the room had eight two-person tables, four on either side, with a row up the middle. When the Swordmasters showed up, the front two tables were upied by Seers that Xerxes vaguely recognized but didnt know by name.
At the right-hand table was a pretty girl with her hair buzzed short, which meant she was from Sin-Masu. Seated with her was a girl with numerous piercings in her ears, nose, and lip. That meant she was from Al-Ga. On the other side of the aisle were two young men, one who had nearly as many piercings as the girl opposite him, and the other with a shaved head.
The Humusi Swordmasters took the back row. Jad and Enusat on the left. Kashtiliash and Xerxes on the right.
A few minutester, Teucer entered along with a young man with long sideburns, who was Laxu.
When Teucer saw them, he smiled broadly. I knew it! he said, and he sat in the aisle in front of them.
Three more students arrived in quick session after that. A somewhat overweight young man with droopy jowls, apanied by a girl so short and skinny Xerxes wondered if she was even a teenager yet. Right behind them was a young man with skin that almost looked auburn.
And then Katayoun poked her head into the room, and Xerxes foul mood evaporatedpletely.
Is this the ck Jackal ssroom? she asked.
Hey, Kat! he said, a bit more loudly than he intended. Lowering his voice, he continued, Yeah, this is ck Jackal.
See, I told you, she said to herpanion as she stepped into the ssroom. It was the same olive-skinned young woman who had been in Katayouns carriage when they arrived on their first day.
Have a seat anywhere you like, Xerxes said, gesturing at the table in front of him and immediately feeling stupid for his wording.
He felt Kashtiliashs elbow jabbing him in the side.
Smooth, the bearded Seer said in a low tone.
Shut up, Xerxes whispered.
Before there was any further chance for talking, Mystic Rabya entered the room. It was obvious who she was, not just from her robes, but from the way she carried herself. She was attractive, with arching eyebrows and full lips, but was clearly on the older side, with wisps of gray in the ck hair that she kept tightly braided and bound with bronze bands.
Hey, Jad whispered, gesturing with his finger. Look!
Mystic Rabya carried a bundle of papers under one arm and had a pack and a weapon slung over her shoulder. A longsword.
Oly shit, Enusat whispered.
Watch thenguage, Rabya said, casting a look at Enusat.
Sorry, the big-nosed Seer said, looking abashed.
Im not a prude, the teacher continued, putting the papers onto the lectern before cing her sword and pack onto the table. But Id prefer to keep things professional.
Stepping back to the door, she shut it.
Now, first things first. The blood oath.
Chapter 38: Mystic Rabya (2)
Chapter 38: Mystic Rabya (2)
Going back to the lectern, she took a small selection of papers out of therger stack. Keeping them in hand, she stepped around the table, then leaned back so she was partially sitting on it.
Before I hand out the actual oath papers, Ill exin the situation. One of the main reasons youve been brought here, to the finest military academy in the Great Reef, is to learn how to fight alongside other mages and Unsighted troops on the battlefield, using magic effectively while you do it. Thats what the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces are famous for, and we want you to be model members.
One of the biggest downsides to this situation is that youre at about the lowest level a mage can be: Seer. Not that bing a Seer is a small aplishment. But if this issue with the Abhorrent turns into a real war in the lower starisles, then we need more than Seers. And so, the Institute is going to give you resources the likes of which you probably arent aware exist. Spell formations. Medicinal pills. Techniques. All of which will significantly elerate your progress.
Question. How long does it normally take a Seer to be a High Seer?
Three students raised their hands.
You, Rabya said, pointing at the girl with the buzzed hair.
Two to two-and-a-half years.
Thats likely what you were taught. And generally speaking, its true. But youre military people now. Backed by the Pontifarchs entire bureaucracy. With the resources well provide you, every one of you should reach the High Seer level in at least six months. Or faster in the case of those whove performed multiple Flushes, such as you, Katayoun of Dumusi, or you she looked at the young man with buzzed hair Kuri of Al-Ga. Both of you have three Flushes under your belt, so odds are the two of you will break through to High Seer first.
We have others with two Flushes. Enusat of Humusi. Dasi of Sin-Masu that was the girl with the piercings Tizqar of Dadu the overweight young man with the jowls and Laxu of Harmu. The rest of you with only one Flush, will likely take the longest. However, nothings a guarantee. Work hard, and efficiently, and even those with a single Flush could surpass the others. And the school will reward the first twenty to reach that level.
Now, whats the point of these? She held up the slips of paper.
Kuri with the buzzed hair raised his hand.
Yes?
Blood oaths. When you mark them in blood, imprint them with mage touch, and burn them, you create an oath that the starsea itself will enforce.
More than the starsea, Rabya said, but I guess theres no need to get so picky about descriptions. Yes, the point is that a blood oath is binding on a magical level. Well, perhaps not magical. Its beyond that. Its bound by naturalw.
She handed the stack of papers to Kuri and said, Pass them back.
Then she pulled out a small wooden case, opened it, and took out some needles. She handed them to Kuri as well. These too.
Going back to her spot at the table, she continued, Its notmon knowledge that progress in the arcane can be elerated so dramatically. In fact, its forbidden to spread such information. By whom, you might ask? The headmaster of our school, whos a High Archon? The Mage Parliament of Sin-Amuhhu? No. Her voice suddenly turned extremely hard, and she nearly yelled, By the fucking Pontifarch himself!
Her words hung as the Seers took sheets of paper and needles. After letting the silence grow suffocating, Rabya said, I know I said to keep thenguage professional, but as the teacher, I get to bend the rules asionally.
Some of the students chuckled.
In any case, Im not trying to be dramatic. Or perhaps I am. The point is you need to understand the gravity of the oath. Not even ordinary students here at the Institute receive the benefits you will receive. And thus, you must swear to never reveal this secret about magical advancement.
Now, read the oath papers, then use the needle to prick your finger and mark the spot on the bottom with blood. Finally, use your mage sight to look into the structure of the paper, find the spot where you can bind yourself to it. After, pass the papers up to me.
When Xerxes got his copy, he read the words, which were rtively simple, demanding that he be loyal to the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces and never reveal confidential information. The matter of elerated magical progress was specifically addressed, but the oath also remained somewhat open-ended in terms of what else might be considered confidential.
What if we refuse to do the oath? asked Dasi. Not that I want to. Im just curious.
Then youre out, Rabya replied. Theyll run a full investigation to figure out what youre hiding, and if youre lucky, you might go home. If youre not lucky, you might end up in prison or worse. I suggest just going through with the oath.
After all the studentspleted the required steps, they passed the papers up to Rabya, who produced a cauldron of some sort from her pack. Into the cauldron went the papers, and then she used a device to produce a me. The ss watched the papers burn into ash.
Xerxes expected to feel something during the process, but didnt. No tug at his heart. No tingle in his mind.
And thats that, Rabya said. Before we get to todays lecture, I want to address something else. I bet some of you are thinking that Mystics like me arent very impressive, right? You alle from lower starisles where the most powerful mages you knew were Mystics, but here on Sin-Amuhhu, you were expecting to find Archons and High Archonsing out of the woodwork.
If thats what was on your mind, then sorry to disappoint. Even here, in a Flourishing starisle, we dont even have forty Archons and twenty High Archons. And why is that?
Katayoun raised her hand and Rabya called on her.
There are limitations imposed by naturalw that put a cap on how many people in a given starisle can break through to higher levels."
Thats right, Rabya said. Its for that reason that we dont have many Archons to begin with. Beyond that, although youre being treated special, you arent that special. So while youll still be taught by Archons asionally, it wont be the norm.
The reason Im your teacher has something to do with this. She reached back and pulled her longsword out. Gripping it at the base of the de, she pointed the pommel at the Swordmasters in the back. These five all study the Epitome. Other than them, can anyone present exin what the Epitome is?
Xerxes breathed a sigh of relief that she hadnt asked the question of him, as he still didnt know.
Only two in the ss raised their hands. One was Katayoun, the other was the extremely short and skinny girl.
Ningal? said Rabya.
The skinny girl straightened in her seat. The Epitome is a sword fighting technique created by the greatest swordsman to ever exist. He traveled the starsea thousands of years ago and defeated all his enemies. He had fifteen apprentices who carried on his legacy after he died.
Rabya closed her eyes and sighed. I was hoping for a slightly more urate version of the story, but thats close enough. He didnt just travel the starsea, he went beyond it, to other starseas. And also she opened her eyes some people think hes still alive. Which seems ridiculous to me considering he wasnt a mage. And even if he was a mage, his longevity would surely have run out by now. Anyway, whats more relevant, the Epitome specifically describes the oral and written tradition he created. But thank you for the answer, Ningal, it was close enough.
You five in the back have obviously been introduced to the Epitome, which is unusual given that you alle from Stricken starisles. Frankly speaking, we didnt expect anyone from such starisles to know about the longsword. There arent enough of you to form a dedicated ss, so youll be under my wing. I myself have studied it for over two hundred years, and am considered proficient. She pped her hands. But dont worry, Im also quite good at other things, such as spellcasting, strategy, tactics, and the like. Also cooking and poker, but thats not important.
As for the rest of you, dont worry. When I teach longsword, Ill arrange for the best of the best to tutor you in otherbat arts. That is, unless you feel like joining us, which youre wee to do.
We have a lot to cover in the next six months, so I suppose we should stop jabbering and get to todays lecture. Every Firstday well go over battlefield tactics, and today well start with High Seerbinations focused around Nasaru mages. This isnt just important for our Nasaru mages, who include Jad, Arwia, and Atra-Hasis. The rest of you need to understand how you can benefit from working with a defense mage on the battlefield, either individually, or when leading a formation of troops.
Question for non-Nasaru mages: how many times can a Nasaru Seer cast Personal Deflection before running out of mm? Ningal?
The skinny mage answered, Five.
Good. Now lets talk Stronghold Deflection. How many consecutive castings could a High Seer sustain?
Chapter 39: The First Mission (1)
Chapter 39: The First Mission (1)
The first day of ss was exponentially more enjoyable than anything to date.
Before the assessment, having Katayoun only a few cubits away in ss would have been profoundly distracting. Now, though, it had a different effect. Instead, knowing she was nearby somehow made it easier to stay focused.
The smaller ss size made things more tolerable as well. It felt different having the teacher right there looking you in the eye. Mystic Rabyas style of lecturing helped as well. She wasnt preachy, nor did she make cringy attempts at humor. Instead, she was dry and sarcastic.
The morning lecture, a time period when Xerxes would previously daydream or outright sleep, sped by. And when Mystic Rabya announced it was time to break for lunch, the students groaned.
I didnt realize I was that interesting, Rabya said. Ill try harder to bore you.
The Seersughed as they gathered their materials and left.
Regroup here after lunch, Rabya called after them. I n to make you cry during the practical training!
Yet another aspect that made things tolerable, and even fun, was the group of students itself. They were a diverse bunch from a variety of starisles. Of the fifteen students who made up their ss, three pairs shared a home. Jad and Enusat; Teucer and Lax; Katayoun and Kishar. All of the other Seers were lone representatives. Despite that, the entire group immediately clicked. They had a simr sense of humor. They seemed interested in the same things. And nobody annoyed anyone else.
The short-haired ones are the smart kids, Jad noted during lunch.
Arwia and Kuri? Xerxes said before stuffing his mouth full of spicedmb.
Yeah, Jad replied.
Why the ell do Al-Ga mages shave their eads? Enusat asked.
Ask them, Kashtiliash said.
Jad nodded. Good point. Just ask. They seem pretty normal. Not all smart kids are, you know.
Enusat sniffed. Yeah. Like Randy Gandy. No offense, Xerk, I know you and im go back.
Its fine, I get it, Xerxes said. Gandash has always been a bit of a stiff.
Kashtiliash sucked amb bone clean. True. He unts money. Annoying.
Come on, hes not that bad, Xerxes thought. But he didnt want to create tension with his new friends, so he just put some more food in his mouth.
By this point, it was bing clear that though Kashtiliash had been voted the leader of the Swordmasters, it was really Jad that everyone looked to for leadership. Forget Randy Gandy, the tall mage said. Then he looked around, lowered his head and quietly said, Were in a bad situation here.
Oh? Kashtiliash said.
Yeah. If youve been paying attention, you probably noticed that the boy-to-girl ratio around here is pretty even. I mean in general. But our ss got shafted. We have ten bros and five broads. Of course, one of them is taken already.
The redhead belongs to Xerk ere, Enusat said. Thats set in stone.
Right, Jad continued. So that leaves only four to split up between the rest of us.
Its fine, Kashtiliash said. You and Enusat, one each. The other two for me.
They allughed.
I call Dasi, Enusat said.
The one with all the nose rings? Xerxes said.
Yeah. But I tell you what, I wasnt looking at her rings, if you know what I mean. Shes got it going on where it counts! He made a crude gesture at his chest level.
Moreughter.
Alright fine, Jad said, that means that between me and Kash, we have our pick of Arwia, Ningal, and Kishar.
Arwia is the short-haired one, right? Xerxes said. Who are the others again?
Ningals the stick-thin girl, Kashtiliash said.
Jad chortled. Yeah. Ningals about as tiny as my kid sister. So Im passing on her. Kishar is the red-heads friend. Dont tell me you already forgot, Xerk-man.
Oh, right, Xerxes said. Shes pretty, but not on the same level as Kat. And not as smart either.
But did you notice ow wide Kishars mouth is? Enusat said, You know what that means.
Heh. Jad, having finished hismb, leaned back in his chair and started picking at his teeth with a sliver of wood. Alright Kash, that means you can have stick girl and one other. Who do you want? Short hair or big mouth?
As Kash deliberated, Xerxes tried to keep his expression neutral by focusing on eating. Truth be told, he didnt much like how his friends were talking about the girls in their ss.
But at the same time, it made him consider his feelings for Katayoun.
What the hell do you actually know about her? he thought. She has red hair and shes pretty. But what does she like? What does she hate? You have no idea, do you?
Sticks arent my thing, Kash said. Ill take big mouth.
Good choice! Enusat said, nodding dramatically.
Xerxes mouth twitched as he forced himself not to frown.
I cant be this shallow, he thought. I need to talk to Kat. Learn about who she is inside.
With this new resolution in his heart, he tried to steer the conversation away from girls.
Hey guys, I have a question, he said.
Oh? Jad replied.
Did any of you notice a ce that sells longswords at the bazaar?
Nope, Kashtiliash said.
Jad rubbed his chin. Now that you mention it, I didnt either. I saw some shops selling weapons. But no longswords.
Mystic Rabya probably knows the best ces to go, Enusat suggested.
That afternoon, practical training focused on horsemanship for the first half, then weapons for the second half. During that second half, Mystic Rabya gave the ss members their choice between generic training options, and joining her and the Humusi Swordmasters for focus on longswordsshe didnt actually call them the Humusi Swordsmasters though. When Mystic Rabya made the offer to the other students, Xerxes snapped off a quick prayer to the Monad, asking that Katayoun join the ss. He wasntpletely convinced that the One Faith was right about the Monad, though, so he repeated the prayer and addressed it to the Pontifarch as well. Just in case.
In the end, neither prayer seemed to do much, as Katayoun joined the rest of the ss for ordinary training with an Unsighted colonel from the army.
Well damn, Xerxes thought. Screw you, Monad. And screw you too, Pontifarch. Youre both useless.
As they got in line and started doing warmup exercises, Enusat asked about where to buy longswords, and Rabya rattled off a list of eight dealers. Five were in the bazaar, but only two of those were what she called licensed dealers. And the shop she rmended was outside the bazaar, on the other side of the city.
Ill take you there one day, she said. But for now, well be using wooden practice swords from the armory and nothing else. Lets go through some basic stances and guards. I want to see what we have to work with. Start in Longfacing.
The Swordmasters held their swords out in front of them.
Jad, she said, keep the pommel pointing toward your midriff. No. No, higher. Yes, good. Xerxes, look at your feet. Do you see that?
He looked down at his feet but wasnt sure what she was talking about. Uh.
She stepped over, squatted, and put her sword t on the ground. Then she slid the de along the ground next to his lead foot. The tip quickly bumped into his back foot, near the heel.
Now do you see? she asked.
Right, he said, scooting his back foot out to make room for the sword to slide all the way through.
Good. You should be able to make a line like this and not be stepping on it. The way you were standing before was unstable.
After making numerous minor corrections to their stances, postures, and general ways of moving, she had them spar.
Jad versus Kashtiliash.
Teucer versus Enusat.
Rabya versus Xerxes.
Chapter 39: The First Mission (2)
Chapter 39: The First Mission (2)
When Xerxes found himself facing his teacher, his heart started pounding. There was something about her, perhaps just the steely look in her eye, that made him realize she was vastly superior to his old Master back on Mannemid. His nervousness must have shown on his face, because she grinned and said, Calm down, Xerk. Youve done great so far. You have nothing to be nervous about. Start in Skyward position and do your best to strike me.
Wood ttered against wood as she deflected his blow.
Good. Again, but from the other side.
He struck. She deflected.
Now switch to Reaping guard and strike upward.
Strike. Deflect.
Keep going.
A rhythm developed, and before he knew it, he was sweating.
Switch, Rabya said.
Rabya took about ten minutes with each of them, then said, Alright, get some water and rest for five. When they gathered around a few minutester, she continued, I see some very good things. But some bad things too. We have a lot of work to do, and were going to start by going back to basics.
Enusat and Jad groaned.
Rabya chuckled. Dont worry, its not going to be easy. And once you make a few corrections here and there, youll have a much stronger foundation to build on.
The first full day of ss left them all so exhausted they decided to skip evening meditation. That evening after dinner, they were too tired for banter and fell asleep immediately.
The next day, they found that Rabya wasnt set to lecture them. Instead, it was Archon Adonia. It was then that they learned Rabya was only scheduled to take the lead on Firstday, Fourthday, and Fifthday. Sandwiched between would be rotating lecturers.
Archon Adonia wasnt as fun to listen to as Rabya, but somehow she didnt seem as boring as the previous times Xerxes had attended her lectures. Training that day focused on battlefield formations.
The next day, the guest lecturer was a High Mystic from another starisle, who talked about geography. It was boring. Practical training rted to survival techniques. Also boring. But Xerxes paid attention nheless. He wasnt going to repeat the same mistake that led to his poor performance on the assessment.
During the days that passed, Xerxes learned a little about Katayoun. A very, very little. It was impossible not to get a few tidbits with her in such close proximity. She liked to drink something called coffee, which Xerxes had heard about but never had a chance to try. Shed been raised by the waterfrontso had he! Maybe that was something they could talk about. And apparently, shed once had a sibling, who died only a few years before.
The downside to everything was that they were so busy he couldnt find a chance to get Katayoun alone. How he longed to sit across a table from her and have a personal conversation.
Unfortunately, she seemed virtually attached at the hip to Kishar, with the two of them eating together, going to the restroom together, and seemingly never being apart. He didnt get the sense they were romantically attached. Just extremely close.
When he muttered about it after lights-out on Thirdday evening, Jad somehow heard him.
You want to know the best way to impress a girl and get a moment alone with her in this ce? he said.
How? Xerxes asked.
Just sneak into the girls dorms at night and knock on her door.
Shut up, Xerxes said.
Im serious. Remember Inatli?
Xerxes wracked his brain; though the name sounded familiar, he couldnt ce it. Sorry.
The other Seer from Jehannemid. A girl.
The one with buck teeth, Enusat added.
The description clicked for Xerxes. Right, I remember her.
I ran into her the other day and chatted for a minute or two. She told me it happened just two nights ago. Some fellow from Ashlultum snuck over and hooked up with a girl from Sin-Masu. Right in the fucking dorm!
No way, Enusat said.
Im serious. The girls piercings were making music like wind chimes, if you know what I mean.
Enusat chortled.
Xerxes shifted his head against the pillow and looked at the ceiling stones only a few feet away. So youre saying I should sneak over and knock on Katayouns door? Then what? After the earring thing, Ive barely said two words in a row to her.
Aw,e on, Xerk-man, Jad said. It doesnt matter what you say. Its the action that counts. In fact, you dont even have to say a thing. Bring her a flower or something. A cookie. Who cares? When she opens the door, just hand it to her. Look in her eyes. Wink. Then walk off into the night. Trust me, shell be all yours after that.
Dont do it, Kashtiliash said.
Jad sat up in bed. Hey now, Kash, dont be so negative. Im telling you, its a good strategy. Once I make some progress with my short-haired broad, Ill do the same thing.
The bearded mage snorted. Too risky.
Dont listen to Kash, Enusat said. Jads right. You sneak over there, itll make a massive ssh.
But there are guards, Xerxes said.
Unsighted guards! We can run way faster than them.
I heard that one of the Harmu mages got caught trying to sneak off campus the other night. He was kicked out or something.
Thats not true, Jad jumped in. I mean, he got caught, but not kicked out. I guess the idiot forgot the outer walls are all protected by spell formations, so they nabbed him long before he ever left the school. They just docked his stipend and restricted him to the campus for a couple months.
Xerxes thought about it for a moment, visualizing what it would be like to knock on Katayouns door. He could imagine her expression of surprise and delight when she cracked open the door and saw him standing there.
For you, hed say, holding out a flower? A cookie?
He frowned.
I cant give her a flower, he said. Thats too cliche. And no cookies. Its got to be something better than that. Like jewelry or something.
Go shopping, Kashtiliash said.
Jad made a tsk-tsk sound. I thought you said it was a bad idea.
It is. But Xerks right. A flowers bad.
Fine, Jad said. I just said flower forck of anything better. Look, rumor has it well be able to go off campus again on Restday. How about this: well go back to G Bazaar and help you find something good. Thene Firstday, you make your move.
Xerxes envisioned himself offering some bauble to Katayoun.
For you, hed say, holding out the glimmering jewelry.
She would hold her hands up to her chest. For me?
As she took the jewelry, she would sp his hands in hers, pull him toward her, and kiss his cheek gently. No. As she took the jewelry, she would sp his hands in hers, pull him toward her, and their lips would meet.
Fine, he said. Im gonna do it. Bazaar on Restday. Then sneak into the girls dorms on Firstday.
Ey, Enusat said, this is gonna be the first major Swordmasters mission! We shoulde up with a name for it.
Operation: Too Risky, Kashtiliash said.
Shut the fuck up, Kash, Jad said,ughing. No. Operation Dormfiltration!
What the ell is a dorm filtration? Enusat said.
No, dormfiltration. Instead of infiltration. Get it? Because its infiltrating a dorm.
Kashtiliash groaned. No. Just no.
Her name is Kat, Xerxes said. Something with Kat in it. Operation: Kat Nap? Kat Nap. No, thats dumb.
Operation: Kat-astrophe, Kashtiliash said.
I swear to the Pontifarch, Kash, growled Jad. If you dont get serious about this, Im going to beat you ck and blue next sparring session.
You can try.
Operation: Kat Walk, Enusat said.
Everyone else fell silent for a moment.
Thats not bad, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes had to agree. Yeah, its pretty good. Operation: Kat Walk.
Chapter 40: Operation: Kat Walk (1)
Chapter 40: Operation: Kat Walk (1)
Mystic Rabya returned Fourthday. Okay, future High Archons, she said, today were going to be talking about the Abhorrent.
And coincidentally, I have news about the invasion. Weve had some resurgences. A few starisles that were previously believed to have been cleared, have had further problems.
Everyone tensed in response to her words.
Calm down, she said. None of the Humusi starisles were affected. However, the news is something to keep in mind. Although our elerated curriculum is only supposed tost six months or so, theres no guarantee youll have that much time to train. If things get bad, you could very well be deployed at a moments notice. The point is, be ready at all times.
Now, lets get to the lecture.
Were going to talk about Abhorrent ssification. One way to get an idea of the kind of monster youre dealing with is the size. Stage one spawn can be as small as an insect, but wont get anyrger than a horse. Stage two spawn donte smaller than cats, but could be asrge as a big mammal like a rhino. After the spawn are the juveniles. Who can tell me how many stages of juvenile growth there are? And by the way, I checked your assessment test results, and I know that at least half of you got this question wrong.
After thatment, nobody raised their hands.
Rabya rubbed the bridge of her nose. Okay, clearly I shouldnt have said that. The answer is six. There are six stages of juvenile growth. Now lets talk size. Well start with the minimum. The smallest stage one juvenile is equivalent to a small dog. Stage two, a big dog. Stage three, a predatory cat such as a leopard. Stage four, a horse. Stage five, a rhino. Six, an elephant. Got that?
Nods could be seen from about half of the students, especially the note-takers of the ss, who included the smart kids Katayoun, Arwia, Kuri, and Ningal. Of the Humusi Swordsmen, only Teucer liked note-taking, and had been nominated as the group record-keeper.
Good, Rabya said. Abhorrent sizing is something you need tomit to memory. If you suddenly face the things on the battlefield, possibly with no advance warning, you need to be able to judge what youre up against.
Xerxes saw some motion ahead of him as short-haired Arwia raised her hand.
Yes? Rabya said.
What about therge end of the scale?
Good question. Stage one juveniles can get asrge as elephants. Stage two, asrge as a small whale. Stage three, arge whale. Stage four a mountain. They get even bigger.
Bigger than a fucking mountain? Enusat blurted.
Language, Seer.
Sorry.
And, yes. Based on our understanding, those types are rare. Whats more, such juveniles are slow and have many weak spots. In some ways, the incrediblyrge types are easier to deal with than the smaller ones.
Another hand flew up.
Yes, Katayoun?
What are the size ssifications after the juvenile stage?
After that, you get the mature Abhorrent. That kind are generally ssified along with the Anunnaki, and theres no way youll be facing anything like that in battle. Latere elder Abhorrent, which are generally ced alongside the most powerful Annunaki. So again, nothing youll ever see.
Now, lets focus on some of the specific types of Abhorrent we know about. Later on, well have full sses covering tactics rted to the oversized variety. For now well deal mostly with the small- and medium-sized type you might need to deal with while on the battlefield.
The rest of Fourthday went by in a blur. Lunch. Training. Meditation. Rune study. Sleep.
Fifthday was much the same, with the exception of a moment in the halls in which Xerxes nearly bumped into Gandash. His friend was hurrying along with an armful of books, an expression of deep concentration on his face.
Xerxes swerved out of the way just in the nick of time to avoid him.
Gandy! he said.
Gandash stopped and turned to look at him. A smile broke out on his face. Hey, Xerk! How are things?
Busy. You?
Same. Hows your chamber doing?
Im making progress.
Good. I gotta run, Im gonna bete.
See you.
On Fifthday after rune study, Xerxes fell deeply asleep in the middle of the other Humusi Swordmasters arguing about a new fashion trend that had popped up out of nowhere among female students, involving choker nes.
There were no lectures on Sixthday, nor any formal training. Instead, it was a time for meditation. And it was the first day that students were given ess to the spell formations that Mystic Rabya had mentioned at the beginning of the week. There were ten such formations on campus, one of which was clearly permanent, and the other nine of which were recent, and temporary, constructions.
Each student was given a twenty-five-minute slot to use a formation, with the time slots beginning early in the morning. In that manner, it was possible to efficiently allow the entire student body of roughly two hundred students to have ess to the formations in one day.
Given the numerous recent days of ordinary meditation, the spell formation session was all Xerxes needed to max out his chamber. By the end of Sixthday, he was ready for a Flush.
However there were more important things to handle on Restday.
The rumors were true. Students were allowed off-campus on the final day of the week, not just this time, but every weekend going forward.
Do not get into fights, Archon Shabadras announced. Do not break anyws. Do not. He went on and on with a whole host of rules. Xerxes eventually stopped paying attention, until the Archon started talking about religion.
I already made it clear that students must follow allws of the empire. Given that you represent the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces, that applies doubly to matters of faith. Under no circumstances participate in any heretical or unorthodox services. Members of the One Faith can find a temple to the south, but other than that, the only authorized form of worship is to attend the Church of the Pontifarch. I cant emphasize this enough. Any student found associating with heretics or cultists will be promptly expelled and punished to the full extent of thew.
Jad, who was standing next to Xerxes, whispered. h h h. Let us go, already.
Once the rules had been stated and restated, they were free.
Chapter 40: Operation: Kat Walk (2)
Chapter 40: Operation: Kat Walk (2)
The trip to G Bazaar was supposed to be for only a few hours in the morning, but it turned into an all-day affair. The entire Humusi Swordmasters crew was there, including Teucer. They found a cheap ce to have a feast of unending tbread and meat. Everything tasted very strongly of cumin and watercress, but given the price, nobodyined. A few extra minas brought unending ale as well.
They were all slightly drunk by the time they went shopping. It helped, apparently. Xerxes quickly found the perfect gift for Katayoun, a choker ne crafted from turquoise, silver, and tiny pearls arranged in a flower motif. The ale helped him channel Gandash to negotiate heatedly with the vendor, bringing the price down from five shekels to three. After they sealed the deal, and the vendor went to package the choker, his friends nearly went crazy.
Three shekels? Teucer said. Are you crazy?
I need to impress her, Xerxes said stoically.
Enusat gripped Xerxes shoulder dramatically. But three shekels? Three? Thats more than the stipend!
Thats a lot of money, Jad said. I said to impress her, not imply you want to marry her.
Im going to marry her, Xerxes blurted, then blushed.
Jad, Enusat, and Teucer gaped.
However, Kashtiliash brushed Enusat aside, put his arm around Xerxes neck, and said, In that case, good choice.
After buying the choker, they stayed away from campus for as long as possible. They bought a pair of dark cloaks for the mission on Firstday. Teucer wanted to buy a cap. Kashtiliash needed oil for his sword. Jad kept them roaming around the bazaar while he looked for something he refused to exin. Xerxes saw a few dolphin trinkets that he thought his sister Ahassunu might like. However, none of them seemed quite right. He wanted to get her something that wouldst for her entire life, and always scream Sin-Amuhhu when she looked at it.
They found one of the sword shops Mystic Rabya had mentioned, and they ogled at the beautiful and well-crafted weapons that none of them could dare to purchase without goingpletely broke.
Enusat kept wanting to return to a part of the market that sold rugs, which was quite mysterious until they realized there was a brothel across the street.
Its against the rules, Jad said. Shabadras must have mentioned it three times.
Aw, lighten up, Enusat said. Xerks nning to break the rules tomorrow!
Thats different, Kashtiliash said.
Jad grabbed Enusats elbow and dragged him away. Kashtiliash and Xerxes followed.
Time slowed to a crawl that evening. The Swordsmasters went to the woods to practice, but Xerxes spent most of the time off to the side thinking about the following nights mission. Despite how hed agreed to it, he was still hesitant. What if he got caught? What if he ended up kicked out of the school? Sent back down to Mannemid?
That night after lights out, they made their final ns.
Jad, by means of his friendship with his fellow Jehannemid mage Inatli, had a basic idea of how the Unsighted guards patrolled the corridors. He also knew a trick to pop the lock on one of the doors.
Meanwhile, Enusat had called in a favor to find out which dorm room Katayoun was in: 162.
There was a small argument over who would be Xerxes partner and wingman.
I have to see the girls dorms, Enusat said.
Fuck off, En, Jad said. This thing was my idea. Im the wingman.
Kashtiliashs argument for himself was the most weighty. Im the quietest.
Enusat raised his finger as if to make a dramatic point, then slumped.
Hes basically right, Jad said.
In the end, Kashtiliash became the wingman.
Firstday sses would have been torture if it werent for Mystic Rabya. Practical training was fun, as Rabya had them working on footwork, ensuring that their blood was really pumping.
But the entire time, in the back of Xerxes mind, he knew that he had only a few hours left until the mission.
His nerves were so jangled by evening-time that there was no way he could do any reading or meditation. Practically speaking, he could have attempted his second Flush. Instead, he paced the dorm room until the other Swordmasters threatened to pelt him with dates. After that, hey on his bunk staring at the ceiling.
The worst was after lights out.
ording to Jad, they needed to wait for an hour. Xerxes was so nervous he felt like he was having a seizure.
Finally, Jad said, Its time.
Xerxes sat up in bed and looked at the timepiece above the door. It was an hour after lights-out.
He slid down thedder, then reached into his pocket to make sure he had the choker.
Remember, Jad said, the guard shift happens right about now, so the halls should be clear. But the guards carry warning bells. If they so much as see you, they can sound a warning very quickly.
Kashtiliash climbed out of his own bed and threw on one of the dark cloaks theyd bought the previous day. The other, he handed to Xerxes.
Xerxes put the cloak on and threw the hood over his head. It was so big the hem nearly touched the ground. Ready.
Same, Kashtiliash said.
Jad and Enusat were both sitting on the edges of their bunks.
Good luck, Enusat said.
Jad gave him a sloppy salute. Youre going to do amazing, Xerk-man.
With that, he and Kashtiliash slipped out into the corridors.
Students werent supposed to go anywhere after lights out other than the restrooms. That in itself gave them a bit of leeway, as it wasntpletely prohibited to be out and about. Kashtiliash and Xerxes moved cautiously until they reached the final door leading out of the dorm area.
Leaning over, Xerxes quietly said, Ready?
The bearded mage nodded.
They were outside, having left a writing stylus propping the door open for when they returned.
Xerxes looked around the corner, then beckoned Kashtiliash to follow. They dashed across the grassy area between the dorms.
The door was locked, but they knew the trick from Jad. Kashtiliash pushed on the upper left quadrant of the door, next to the top hinge. At the same time, Xerxes twisted the handle a quarter to the left. Then he sent his mage sight into the door to find the locking mechanism. Sure enough, thanks to the pressure from Kashtiliash and the slight turn of the handle, the lock needed only a tiny bit of finesse to click open.
Xerxes pulled the door open and the hinge let out a very long squeak.
Fuck, he thought, but at the same time, he slid inside. Kashtiliash followed.
The door squeaked shut behind them.
Go, Kashtiliash whispered.
Right, left, right, left, Xerxes thought as he went through the girls dorm area. The hallways were empty. The doors were shut. Soon enough, he found room 162.
Kashtiliash poked his shoulder. He looked over.
The bearded mage gestured back at the previous intersection. Xerxes nodded, and watched him pad back to keep watch.
Xerxes paused in front of the door and fingered the choker in his pocket. Then he sped his hand into a fist and raised it up so the knuckles touched the rough wood. Was it really going to be this easy?
He knocked. Three times in a row, quick and clear.
A second passed.
Two seconds.
He knocked again.
Just barely, he heard voices from inside.
And then he caught motion from the left as two guards rounded the corner.
Chapter 41: Interlude - Boring Developments (1)
Chapter 41: Interlude - Boring Developments (1)
Three weeks, Purattu thought. I cant believe Ive been on Sin-Amuhhu for three weeks. I feel like Ive barely scratched the surface of the area around the school.
He was currently in a location not too far away from the Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic. It was an innocuous-looking gated manor at the end of a meandering residential street on the other side of G Bazaar.
From the outside, the manor looked ordinary in every aspect. However, its walls were infused with powerful spell formations that made it impervious to the mage sight of even High Archons. The manor had an outer courtyard, an inner banquet room, guest quarters and the like, but at the moment they were all empty. The staff had been given the day off.
The inner courtyard was immactely tended by a master gardener. It had an olive tree in the corner, a fish pond opposite it, and a table decorated with copper and jewels, surrounded by matching chairs padded with felt. Sitting in one of those chairs was Purattu. He had been shopping at the bazaar recently, where hed spent a few dozen shekels on things such as a golden girdle and a mage hat of polished whalebone.
Directly across from him was Archon Shabadras, with his gaunt cheekbones and crooked nose. To the right was General Kamaru-Ayyabu, who was Unsighted, but at the same time was one of the highest-ranking members of the Sin-Amuhhu military. He was a bear of a man, with salt-and-pepper hair and a well-tended beard. The man had a hand-rolled cheroot between his fingers that spewed out a steady stream of smoke.
Not one of the students of the Epitome tested into the officer group? Purattu asked, waving some of the smoke away from his face.
The one named Xerxes came close, Archon Sabadras said. Its a shame. Hisbat skills are superb, and he clearly has a good foundation in magic. But his written test was abysmal. Plus, the boy seems distracted.
It doesnt matter, said General Kamaru-Ayyabu. All of this has been orchestrated for a greater purpose.
I know, Purattu said. Still, Id hoped at least one of them would show some promise. To find followers of the Epitome together in such a backwater location is odd.
Archon Sabadras nodded. Thats true, and we n to look into it further once things have calmed down. But there are greater concerns at the moment. The Abhorrent activity in Ira starisles is clearly winding down. Now were getting reports of incidents in Pira, Lira, Ki-Suhi, and others.
Purattu tapped his finger on the smooth table. So the Ira invasion was a probe.
I still think so, the General said. Regardless, once we confirm Ira has cooled down, we can think about how to go in and retrieve the Gateway Key.
Eyes narrowing, Purattu said, What exactly does that mean, General? Wont I just go there, grab it, ande back here?
Archon Shabadras frowned. Too risky.
Purattus eyes shifted to Archon Shabadras. Something happened, didnt it? Was the missionpromised?
We dont know for sure. Last night High Mystic F was found dead.
Purattu forced his face to stay neutral. F, like most of his peers, was a fool and an idiot. But that didnt mean hed ever wished her harm. F? Dead?
Why be so vague, Shabadras? the general said. She was ripped apart. Very violent. My guess painful.
Torture? Purattu asked, feeling a chill run down his spine.
Probably, Archon Shabadras said. Its impossible to say for sure, but given the wounds, Id guess its highly likely an Abhorrent was involved.
Unless the Abhorrent have somehow snuck up here, it would have been summoned. And given that F was a High Mystic, it would mean whoever captured her was probably on the same level as her, if not higher.
Correct. Which reinforces our previous suspicion that the Eternal Father cult has infiltrated the highest levels of the Sin-Amuhhu Parliament.
Even given this development, the Annunaki still havent gotten involved?
Shabadras shook his head slowly. Weve submitted reports and requests, none of which have been replied to.
Purattu sat there quietly, mind racing as he tried to determine all the implications. At the very least, the cultists, and by implication the invading Abhorrent, know about our mission with the Gateway Key.
The general nodded. Its probably safest to operate under that assumption. And thats why we dont want you going directly to get the Key. We fear that any premature actions by you or the other High Mystics from Ku-Aya will be dangerous, to say the least. We dont want to lose any of you, or the Gateway Key.
Purattu nearly snorted out loud. Like you give a shit about us, General.
How do you expect to retrieve the Key if I dont get it personally? Purattu asked, and even as the words left his mouth, he realized what the two older men were hinting at. Oh. You want to send some of the new recruits. I cant imagine how that will be less obvious, but Im sure you have some idea.
A kernel of an idea, the general said. But itll take your cooperation.
Fair enough. Care to exin?
Were going to send five High Mystics down secretly, including yourself. But not to get the Key. Youll be on diplomatic missions, or something simr. Shortly thereafter, well deploy all of the new recruits on a variety of missions. We have thirteen officers, and thus, thirteen expeditionary forces. Each officer willmand fifteen mages and roughly a hundred and fifty Unsighted troops. Three of those groups will go to the starisles of Humusi with different cover missions. For instance, quell local uprisings, deal with rogue Abhorrent still on the loose, that sort of thing. Of course one of them will be sent to the starisle where you hid the Gateway Key.
Purattu rubbed his chin. Let me guess, you want me toe up with a convincing cover story for why a group of over a hundred and fifty mages and soldiers are going to the exact location where I hid the Gateway Key.
Precisely.
The cult is still going to be a problem, Purattu continued. First of all, we seem to have proof theres a high-level mage involved. Probably a Buhhu mage. Incidentally, youve surely looked into all Buhhu mages on Sin-Amuhhu.
Weve begun the process, Shabadras said. But such operations take time, especially when trust is a very limitedmodity.
For all we know, we could have picked up some cultists with the new batch of Seers. Also, wont they be keeping tabs on everyone we send down? It still seems like the safest option would be a lone party going stealthily to retrieve the Key.
Or both, Archan Shabadras said.
Purattu looked at him. Plots within plots?
You and the other High Mystics will be leaving first, the general said. Youll do your best to draw out any enemies, or at least confuse them. The group assigned to the starisle with the Gateway Key will be unaware of the true nature of their task. At least initially. We can include sealed orders to be opened by themanding officer at a certain point.
Youll need to seal the orders with a spell formation. Something shy. Like the kind that destroys the orders if the wrong person tries to open them.
The general looked at Shabadras. That can be done?
Of course, Shabadras replied.
Purattu waved some more smoke out of his face. Your n isnt very well thought out. Too many holes. Too many potentialplications. For one thing, theyre teenagers, for the Monads sake. Are you really going to trust something so important to kids?
Theyre legally adults, as you know, Kamaru-Ayyabu said. And as you also know, we follow Macrides war treatises, and he was a proponent of young officers getting field experience as early as possible.
Purattu had never been a fan of Macrides, but he decided not to beleaguer the point. Fine. But there are other problems. For instance, what if I buried the Key out in the middle of a swamp with no markers, in a ce that only I can find?
You buried the Key in a swamp?
Purattu smirked. No. But I did put it somewhere no one will think to look. And even if they did look, they wouldnt find it. Wasnt that the entire point of this thing?
The general drummed his fingers on the table. Are you saying you cant devise written instructions for how to retrieve it?
I never said that.
Archon Shabadras huffed. This isnt a game, High Mystic.
I beg to differ. This whole thing is a game. A very important, potentially deadly game. And this n of yours is the culmination of it all. Except it needs work. A lot of work.
The general exhaled a smoke ring. I said its the kernel of an idea. We still have months to refine it. Besides, its also possible that you could eventually circle around and meet up with the group. Hell, once the path is clear, and were sure an ambush hasnt beenid or something along those lines, you can just go ahead of them and get the Key yourself.
So, theyre sending in the kids as sacrificialmbs, Purattu thought. Or, at the very least, bait.
He didnt like it. But unfortunately, there was too much at stake. If the Abhorrent got their hands on the Gateway Key, what was currently a minor problem for lesser starisles could quickly turn into something much more dramatic.
For now, the general continued, the main thing we need to do is set up a cover mission. Can you think of a reasonable justification to send an army down to where exactly did you hide the Key?
Chapter 41: Interlude - Boring Developments (2)
Chapter 41: Interlude - Boring Developments (2)
Purattus eyes narrowed slightly. Isnt it supposed to be secret?
High Mystic, Archon Shabadras said, as I exined in our previous meeting, our group was selected for a very specific reason. Were all members of the One Faith here.
Purattu didnt see what that had to do with it. Although it was true that he believed in the One Faith, whose members were generally viewed as being paragons of honesty and loyalty he didnt know Archon Shabadras or General Kamaru-Ayyabu personally. And because of that, he was hesitant to trust them outright.
Unfortunately, they outranked him, and he could tell that they wanted an answer to the question.
Jehannemid, he said. The Keys on Jehannemid. It was the starisle where hed run across almost an entire continent in a morning, while the Seers hed conscripted had pissed the day away on shopping and sightseeing.
Jehannemid, the general said, tapping his cheroot free of ash. Why there? Or was it random?
I dont do random things, Purattu answered. Of all of the nine starisles subsidiary to Humusi, Jehannemid has the most tenuous political climate. The Mage Parliament is aligned with the dominant faction, but there are other sovereign states which vie for supremacy. One of them is ruled by Sheik Hatim, whos married to one of High Archon Kingallus daughters.
Kingallu has a daughter on Jehannemid? Archon Shabadras said.
No surprise, said General Kamaru-Ayyabu. The mans over six hundred years old. Hes had dozens of wives through the years, and thats not to mention all the concubines. I wouldnt be surprised if he has hundreds of progeny. Thousands even.
Shabadras frowned. He has a family member of Jehannemid. So?
So he cares for her, Purattu said. Before leaving for Humusi, I paid for information about the starisles I visited. I found that, as General Kamaru-Ayyabu just suggested, High Archon Kingallu does have progeny scattered throughout dozens of the starisles subsidiary to Ku-Aya, which is where he originated. But there are only a few that hes truly interested in. His daughter on Jehannemid is one. Her marriage to Sheik Hatim was the result of politicalwork considerations spanning dozens of starisles. Kingallu himself personally attended the wedding.
On Jehannemid? Shabadra said in shock. A Stricken starisle?
I cant prove it beyond the shadow of a doubt, Purattu said, but Id bet money on it.
Its not umon for mages to go to lower starisles, the general said, but for a High Archon to go to such an ignoble ce is definitely out of the ordinary.
Whats more, he regrly corresponds with the girl. When I found out about that, an idea urred to me. So I dug for some more information about Jehannemid. And when I was there, I took the liberty of cing some gold shekels in the right hands to, well he cleared his throat set up a bit of an insurrection.
What? Archon Shabadras blurted. You did what?
I know, I know, its illegal, Purattu said coolly. But were talking about keeping a Gateway Key out of the hands of the Abhorrent. Isnt a bit of rule-breaking called for? The point is, all it will take is the right message getting to the right person, and a lot of chaos will break out on Jehannemid. And Kingallus favorite daughter will be trapped in the middle of it.
Well-yed, High Mystic Purattu, the general said. Very well-yed. Over the next month or two, I cany the foundation with the High Archon, by providing a word here and there about the tenuous situation on Jehannemid. When the timees, I tell him his daughter is going to be in danger, and convince him sending a small force down is the best way to keep her safe. It would be too scandalous for him to personally go there, obviously.
If the High Archon himself believes the missions purpose to be about his daughter, Shabadras said, then even if hes a cultist, it wont matter.
You think he might be the traitor? Purattu asked, the hair on his forearms rising up.
No, Shabadras replied. But the traitor does exist. And that caused us to think of another idea.
Oh?
We want to spring a trap. Snag this betrayer red-handed.
You sure seem to have a lot of time to make ns.
The General exhaled a long stream of smoke. Weve identified one of the new recruits that we think is clean. In fact were certain of it. Shes not from your group, so I wont bother exining who she is. But she has a history of conflict with the cult. Her brother was a member, and she uncovered the truth. Killed him in the process.
Damn, Purattu said. But how do you know she didnt kill him because shes also a member?
We know, the General said. You can read the report if you want the details. The point is that we trust you, and therefore, we want you to pick her partner from your group of recruits. Someone youre certain doesnt have any connections to the cult.
Purattu fanned smoke out of his face as he thought. Well, there are three thate to mind. He turned his eyes up in thought. No, that one wouldnt work. Two. Wait. No. One.
The general reached into a pocket, pulled out a small wax writing tablet with a stylus attached, and slid it across the table. Write the name there.
Purattu did so. When he pushed the tablet back across the table, Shabadrass nced at it and smiled. I guessed hed be your pick.
I can imagine why, Purattu said. Anyway, going back to the mission to get the Key. Like I said, Ill need to send at least two messages down to Jehannemid. When. And how.
Easy, said Archon Shabadras. The Parliament already passed an emergency measure to establish contact with all of the Stricken and Deeply Clouded starisles every six to eight weeks. Slip your message into the mix four months from now. By the time news gets back the followingter, we can have High Archon Kingallu sufficiently prepped.
Purattu thought about the timeline. I suggest acting earlier rather thanter. The longer my gold sits in idle hands on Jehannemid, the less effective it will be.
The general frowned. Our goal is to have all of the new students reach the High Seer level before we deploy them.
Is that more important than getting the Key?
The general and the archon nced at each other.
It will take even more finesse with Kingallu, Shabadras said, but we can probably make it happen.
Good, Purattu said. In the meantime, what do I do? Go back to Ku-Aya and try to flush out the cultist assassins?
Id prefer if you kept a low profile, Shabadras said.
I was kidding.
The general stubbed the final bit of his cheroot out in an ashtray. Very funny. Go back to Ku-Aya and stay low. Maybe try to spread the word of how convinced you are that you didnt have the real Gateway Key.
Isnt that what theyd expect the person with the real Key to do?
You werent supposed to know that you had the real Key.
How do people like this end up in charge of things? Purattu thought, closing his eyes so the two men wouldnt see him roll them. If I figured out which one was the real Key, dont you think others might have been able to also? I put the pieces together with information, not by doing tests on the thing.
Shabadras and General Kamaru-Ayyabu exchanged a nce.
Anythings possible, the general said. Just do whatever you can to confuse the enemy. Get ready to send that message, and also n out your route once the entire operation is carried out. You have six months.
Or less, Purattu said.
Or less.
Purattu pushed his chair back and stood from the table. Sounds like things are going to be boring for a while.
Chapter 42: Not Going To Let This Stand (1)
Chapter 42: Not Going To Let This Stand (1)
Operation: Kat Walk had hit a snag. A major snag.
As the guards rounded the corner, Xerxes heard the doorknob in front of him turning.
Hey! a guard yelled. Identify yourself.
He looked at the door as it cracked open. Beyond, it was dark. He made out the glint of an eye, but nothing else.
I said, identify yourself! Both guards were now walking in his direction.
He stepped back. The door shut.
He turned and ran.
Stop!
A bell nged.
While rounding the corner he nearly knocked over Kashtiliash.
Go!
The two Seers sped back the way theyde. Of course, Seers were capable of speeds that surpassed anything Unsighted were capable of. But going around each corner required deceleration, meaning that they could only move so quickly.
One corner. Two corners. Upon turning the final corner, they crashed into a pair of guards. All four of them fell into a tangled pile.
The ell? a guard blurted.
Fuck! Xerxes shouted, shoving one of the guards away and jumping to his feet. He grabbed Kashtiliashs arm and pulled him up.
Stop right there! the other guard yelled, scrambling to get to his feet.
He bounded thest paces to the exit door and shoved it. It didnt open.
Move, Kashtiliash said, then grabbed the handle, pulled the selftching bar back, and pushed the door open with a loud squeak.
They ran out into the open.
There were no more guards on the way back to their room. However, the rm had been raised. More bells rang, and even as Xerxes and Kashtiliash burst into dorm 372 and tore off their mission uniforms, they heard yelling in the halls. Doors mming.
Kashtiliash was already under the covers, but Xerxes was having trouble with one of his boots. He kicked his foot desperately.
Fuck, he muttered. Finally, he got it off, jumped over, and locked the door. The guards had keys, of course. He flew up thedder, and dove under the covers.
There was more yelling and mming of doors.
Then their door opened, and the light of a handheldntern spilled in.
Whats going on? Jad said.
Whos in here? a guard barked, stamping into the room. Show your faces. Now.
As the four Swordmasters peered out of their bunks, the guards checked behind and under the beds.
372s ounted for, one of them said, and they tromped out. The door mmed shut behind them.
The Seers said nothing. In darkness, they listened to the guards go through the rooms one by one. Xerxes held the choker tightly in his hand.
Then everything went silent.
Eventually, he heard snoring and heavy breathing.
That was close, he thought. I wonder if she saw me, though.
But how could he know who had opened the door? And even if it had been Katayoun, could she have even seen his facial features in the darkness of the hood?
Slipping the choker under his pillow, he closed his eyes and tried to sleep.
The following morning, they finally feltfortable speaking about the previous night, though they did so in hushed tones. Xerxes rted what had yed out, and went through a y-by-y of the entire event.
You did everything you could ave done, Enusat said.
Jad, pulling on his mage robe, nodded. Agreed. Luck wasnt with you. Thats all.
However, at morning assembly, it quickly became apparent that the incident was far from over.
High Archon Kingallu himself presided. Last night, there was an incursion, he said. I know all of you are from lower starisles, so you arent familiar with our customs here on Sin-Amuhhu. For centuries, this institute has operated on trust, respect, and obedience. Gone are the days when we used spell formations to keep students locked in the dorms. Granted, we have physical locks, but theyre more for custom than anything else. It would be a true shame if the actions of a few unruly students forced us to enact stricter policies. After all.
The High Archon prattled on for minutes on end before arriving at his main point. Whoever vited the rulesst night has an opportunity to step forward right now. Youll be punished. Youll lose the privilege of leaving the school on Restday. For two months. Instead, youll spend your rest days in meditation. Youll also lose your stipend during that time. Besides that, nothing will happen. Nothing on your permanent record. No other marks against you.
Other thanplete humiliation, Xerxes thought, fingering the choker in his pocket. His chest felt tight. How had things gone this wrong? Losing the stipend would be bad, but he had Purattus loan money to make up for the difference. Two months with no outside time would be disappointing, but hed be fine. It wouldnt stop him from longsword practice, nor would it prevent him from trying to get his face time with Katayoun in some other way. Then again, if he didnt say anything, who would be the wiser?
Furthermore, the High Archon continued, if the perpetrator doesnt step forward, then the entire student body will suffer consequences.
Murmurs of discontent rippled through the assembled students as the High Archon intentionally let them stew in silence for a moment.
Finally, Kingallu said, Free time outside the campus will be curtailed. We will install spell formations in all of the main doors in the dorms. Well even consider reducing stipends.
Xerxes chest tightened even further. This isnt fair, he thought.
The buzz of conversation grew louder among the students, until Kingallu raised his voice and said, Quiet. Believe me, the faculty here has no wish to punish innocents. But if the guilty party doesnt step forward now, well have no choice.
Xerxes closed his eyes and took a deep breath. The sick feeling in his stomach didnt go away. I dont see any other option, dammit. Ive got to fess up.
He opened his mouth and prepared to give voice to his guiltiness. Except, someone else beat him to the punch.
It was me! someone said loudly.
Chapter 42: Not Going To Let This Stand (2)
Chapter 42: Not Going To Let This Stand (2)
His eyes snapped open, and he looked over at Jad, who had stepped forward in the line and raised his hand. Virtually every head in the crowd also turned to look at him.
Me and my buddy here, Jad continued, gesturing at Enusat with his thumb.
Xerxes saw Enusats eyes widen, but to the shorter young mans credit, he didnt breathe a word to contradict Jad.
I congratte you on your honesty, young man, the High Archon said. After the assembly is adjourned, please see Archon Adonia to take care of some paperwork.
With that, the assembly proceeded with some less dramatic announcements, and then morning prayer.
Shortly thereafter, the students were dismissed.
Jogging over to Jad before he had a chance to go find Archon Adonia, Xerxes said, Jad, what the hell?
Jad grinned. Its the second time I screwed up trying to help you. I deserve it.
No way. I was the one who
Nah, Enusat interrupted. Jads right. Our advice is just making things worse for you. We can deal with a few weeks locked on campus.
Now, if youll excuse us, my dear friend, Jad said, we have some paperwork to fill out. Dont worry. After this, things will get better. Our next n will be foolproof!
When Jad and Enusat showed upte for ss, Mystic Rabya cleared her throat. I guess I shouldnt have put off the lecture on covert infiltrations.
Everyoneughed, even Jad and Enusat.
Xerxes had trouble paying attention. It just didnt seem right to let his friends take the fall for him. But, what could he do now? If he confessed, it would prove his friends to be liars, and would surely make everything else worse.
That was when it hit him.
Ill share in the punishment.
The more he thought about it, the more it made sense. When Jad and Enusat spent time meditating instead of gallivanting outside of the school, he would join them. Hed share his stipend. No. He would draw on his loan money topletelypensate them for their lost money. It was only fair.
Got something important on your mind, Seer Xerxes? Mystic Rabya said.
He pulled his chin out of his hand and sat up straight in his chair. Sorry, Mystic.
She grinned. No problem. But if Im really that boring, Id like to know, so I can up my game.
The other students chuckled, and Xerxes grinned wryly. Really, Mystic. Youre great.
In the dining hall, after they all had their lunch, he looked around to make sure no one was eavesdropping, then said, Guys, I made a decision. Im going to stay with you on campus for the entire time youre locked down. And Ill make up for your lost stipend.
Fuck that, Enusat said. I dont care about money.
Agreed, Jad added. Besides, whats the point in us taking the fall if you end up getting punished anyway?
Xerxes has his honor, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes had to hand it to the bearded mage. He could sum things up quite well. Exactly. Its fair. Maybe nobody else will ever know the truth of what happened, but Ill know.
Jad thought about it for a moment. Alright, fine.
Good, Xerxes said.
But, we still have toe up with Operation: Kat Walk Part Two.
Enusat groaned. Cant we at least take a break for a few weeks?
Xerxes popped a cherry tomato into his mouth. Yeah. Lets calm things down on that front. Besides, worst-case scenario, I can just walk up in front of her friends and ask her out.
To where? Kashtiliash asked. Arent you grounding yourself?
Oh, true. Well, the point remains, lets take it easy for a bit.
Which is what they did. For the following days, the Humusi Swordmasters attended ss and participated in training during the days, while focusing on meditation and rune study in the evenings. They quickly developed a routine.
Rabya was pushing them hard, whether in lectures or in practical training. All of them were advancing in their Epitome basics. And on Secondays, shed arranged for personalized training in spellcasting for each caster type. Xerxes confidence in fighting on the battlefield was growing.
He was still obsessed with Katayoun, but he kept his feelings in check. He was convinced that, sooner rather thanter, everything would happen naturally.
After all, shed started looking at him furtively. At least, he thought she was. Every so often, hed nce in her direction to see her looking away. And sometimes, out of the corner of his eye he was absolutely certain she was eyeing him. But then hed turn his head only to find her staring somewhere else.
When the weekend came, Kashtiliash revealed that he would stay on campus with them. And thus, all four young mages began to advance toward Flushes.
The week ended.
A second week began. He and Gandash asionally crossed paths and exchanged greetings, but they never seemed to have time to do more than that.
There was one big upside to being stuck on campus: the extra ess to the spell formations. The slots on Sixthday were assigned. But slots on Restday were up for grabs. And since even the most studious students found it hard to resist the temptation to wander the streets of Sin-Amuhhu, it was usually possible to get double slots.
Extra ess to the spell formations meant Xerxes progress toward a second chamber hastened.
Rabya added something new to their Epitome lessons; Abhorrentbat theory. After all, it was one thing to face another sword wielder in a duel, but a very different thing to use the sword to fight monsters that could be either much smaller or muchrger than you. Before long, a few other members of their ss joined their sessions with Mystic Rabya, namely Dasi and Atra-Hasis. Xerxes hoped beyond hope that Katayoun would eventually be one of them. But even going into the third week, she didnt seem interested.
On Seconday of the third week, Xerxes performed his second Flush. It went smoothly, although the empty feeling afterward, which he had only experienced once before, was extremely strange. And now that hed done that, he knew that Flushes would be easier. In the subsequent days, all of the Humusi Swordmasters performed Flushes, as did most of the other members of ck Jackal ssroom. Everyone was making progress.
The situation with Katyoun continued to be infuriatingly exciting. He was still convinced something had changed. On at least two instances, he managed to catch her eye, only to have her look away.
What the hell does it mean? he thought. Hed heard jokes in the past about women being impossible to understand, and had always assumed they were just that: jokes. But now he was starting to get the feeling they werent.
On Restday that weekend, as usual, they gathered in the grove for longsword practice.
Where the hell is Enusat? Jad said after they went through their warmup routine. Hes usually notte.
Beats me, Kashtiliash said.
They reviewed some of the key lessons from Mystic Rabya and then broke into pairs to do sparring.
A few minutester, Enusat came tromping out of the trees.
That fucker, Enusat growled as he walked out of the tree line. That fucking fucker.
Your swearings as imaginative as ever, Teucer said.
Enusat spat and kicked a boulder lightly. The others ceased their sparring.
What happened? Kashtiliash asked, reaching down for a water skin.
That motherfucker embarrassed me in front of everyone. Arwia was there. Ningal too. And they . Huffing, he crossed his arms, and leaned back onto the boulder.
Jad stabbed his wooden practice sword into the soil and crossed his arms atop the pommel. Back up. Who did what?
I was rushing ere and I ran into that bastard. Its not my fault e walks around with a thousand books in his arms. And so what if I knocked them down? But e just had to pull rank. Yelled at me and made me pick up all is damn books and give them back.
Who? Kashtiliash asked.
Randy Gandy, Enusat growled. And Im not going to just let this stand.
Chapter 43: Progress (1)
Chapter 43: Progress (1)
Gandash did something? Jad said.
Kashtiliash sniffed. Figures.
You mean Xerks friend? Teucer asked.
Yeah, that fucker, Enusat said. Theyre not friends anymore, though.
Were not? Xerxes thought.
What exactly are you nning to do, though? Jad asked.
Enusat leaned away from the boulder and started cracking his knuckles one by one. Simple. We lure im out ere and then beat the shit out of im!
Jad and Kashtiliash exchanged a nce.
I dont think so, Kashtiliash said.
Yeah, Teucer agreed. You know the rules. Laying hands on an officer will get you in big trouble.
And wed never get away with it, Jad added. Not on the campus. If we weren''t on lockdown, maybe we could catch him outside. The bazaar has a lot of ces you could get the jump on someone. As long as we had masks, hed never be able to prove it was us.
Teucer plopped down onto the grass. Except, you are on lockdown. Unless Kash, Xerk, and I do it ourselves.
True.
Having finished with his knuckles, Enusat started pacing. You three cant do it. I want to be there. Ive got to be there. So the question is what do we do? Like I said, I cant just let this stand.
Look, Xerxes said, I know Gandashes across kind of rough. But hes not that bad.
Enusat stopped walking and faced Xerxes, his hands clenched into fists at his side. Its easy to say that when you werent there. You should ave seen the look on his face. Sneering so wide is mouth almost fell off. And e was encouraging Arwia and Ningal tough. Might as well ave ordered them to do it.
Xerxes had a hard time believing that, but he felt he had already said enough.
Jad stepped over and put his hand on Enusats shoulder. We get it. The bastard deserves whateversing to him. Xerk-man just meant that we need to be careful. Right?
Jad looked at Xerxes, his gaze suddenly much harder than usual. His expressionbined with his words made it obvious what he was really asking Xerxes.
Are you with him or with us?
Xerxes swallowed. Yeah, thats what I meant.
Jad smiled. Good. He looked back at Enusat and squeezed his shoulder. Well figure something out. Remember, we know what dorm hes in. What if we get some of that ultra-hard ster the workers use on the bath tiles in the restrooms? We could seal his door shut at night!
Enusat immediately barked augh. That would be great. Id love to see im all flustered showing upte to morning assembly.
Jad stepped back and pulled his sword out of the ground. Or we could spread some rumors. What if everyone hears a story about ol Randy Gandy at the Bronze Bull?
Bronze Bull? Kashtiliash asked.
Jad grinned. One of the male brothels over by G Bazaar.
Enusatughed harder, and even Kashtiliash chuckled. Xerxes made a show of joining in.
For the remaining hours of Restday, none of the Humusi Swordmasters spotted Gandash. And then a new week started with Firstday.
Xerxes hoped Enusat would forget about the embarrassing incident, but he didnt. It didnt help that Jad kept bringing it up. Xerxes thought about warning Gandash that they were nning something, but never seemed to find the right opportunity.
Gandys smart. He can deal with it.
Jad and Enusat went through with their n of sealing Gandashs dorm room door with ster. After asking around, Enusat had learned the pattern of the guards nighttime patrols. When it gotte enough, they didnt patrol, and generally just maintained their posts at key intersections. Which meant that, as long as the prank was timed correctly, there was virtually no risk of being caught, or of the guards noticing the sealed door.
At thest minute, Xerxes decided he needed to warn Gandash.
About half an hour before lights out, he said, Im going to the facilities.
Jad and Enusat were arguing about what would win in a fight, an Abhorrent spawn or a crocodile, and hardly paid any attention as he slipped out.
Around the corner, he found Gandashs dorm room and knocked. There wasnt any answer. He knocked again.
Anybody there?
Nothing.
He hurried to the library, but given the hour, it was almostpletely empty. He went in anyway, checking some of the side alcoves and back tables that werent visible from the front. There was no sign of Gandash.
Circling around, he knocked on the dorm again. Nothing.
Where the hell are you, Gandy?
It had been about twenty minutes, and he knew he couldnt stretch time any further.
Back at 372, Jad said, I was worried you fell in.
Must have been the curry at lunch, Xerxes replied as he climbed into his bunk.
There wasnt any more time.
Its just a dumb prank, he thought. Nobodys going to get hurt.
The next morning, Gandash and his dormmatesall of them officerswere dramaticallyte to morning assembly.
As they burst out of the main entrance and ran toward their spot, Enusat loudly said, The bookworms slept in!
Gandashs face was as red as a beet, and he was frowning so hard it looked like his lips might fall off. The other officers looked equally mortified. Laughter ensued, with furtherments being thrown out by other random Seers.
Its fine, nobody got hurt, Xerxes thought.
Theters fell into line, and then the High Archon asked for an exnation. When it came to light that theirteness was because of a prank, it led to quite a bit ofughter among the other students.
But then Archon Kingallu said, Im disappointed. We brought you here for learning. Training. Not idle buffoonery. Starting next week, Ill start a new arrangement. Exemry students will be recruited to form a nighttime crew to bolster the Unsighted patrols. Hopefully, this will ensure no further incidents ur. Any who are caught breaking curfew will be punished quickly and severely.
The High Archon didnt go into further detail, but it was easy to guess why they were adding student patrols. Unsighted guards were physically inferior to the Seers. As had been the case with Xerxes and Kashtiliash, they were easy to outrun if it came to a chase. Adding Seers to the night patrols would make it much more difficult for the students to sneak around.
Enusat didnt seem to care. On the way to the ssroom, he chortled endlessly. Did you see the look on is face?
Priceless, Jad said.
Xerxes was just d the incident had passed. Enusat felt justice had been served, and Gandash ended up looking silly for a few minutes. No harm, no foul.
Chapter 43: Progress (2)
Chapter 43: Progress (2)
Two dayster, they learned that all of the students in the officers ss had been taken to off-site training. It didnt seem likely it was connected to the prank, but either way, it meant that Gandash was gone for the time being.
Time continued to pass. The more familiar Xerxes got with the special spell formations provided by the school, the easier it became to meditate and stockpile energy. In fact, he beat all of his friends to the next Flush by a matter of days.
As for Katayoun, his searing desire to be alone with her had cooled slightly. Hed given up on trying to force an interaction and instead contented himself to look at her hair in ss and nce at her from across the dining hall. And he still had the choker. He usually kept it on his person, just in case he somehow found a chance to give it to her withouting across as a weirdo.
The right time will present itself, he thought.
Weeks began to pass, and his progress sped up. Eventually, he was heading toward his seventh Flush, which meant he had passed the halfway mark to bing a High Seer.
However, when Jad and Enusats punishment period ended, that progress slowed, as they finally were able to explore the city again.
On Sixthdays, the mandatory meditation slots were assigned randomly. Luckily, the entire Swordsmasters crew were scheduled for the morning, and that meant they were free to go to the bazaar in the afternoon. They nearly missed the curfew, and rushed back into campus literally as the doors were being closed. The following day they also spent outside, and had such a good time that, during the following mornings lecture, Mystic Rabya made numerous sarcastic jokes about them being hungover.
At some point during the weeks that passed, he noticed that something had changed with Katayoun. At first, he wasnt sure what was going on, but then he became certain she was toying with him. He was sure that she was avoiding his gaze, while simultaneously looking at him.
Two can y that game, he thought. And he tried to stare at her until she turned in his direction, whereupon he would look away. But joining the supposed game didnt seem to do anything except make him question himself. Maybe Im imagining it all. What if she thinks it''s creepy that Im always looking at her?
He resolved to stop looking at Katayoun, even when she was in front of him in ss. And he stuck to the resolution. For a while.
The following Sixthday, the Swordmasters assigned meditation slots lined up again, allowing for another G Bazaar run in the afternoon. Except for Xerxes slot. Granted, it was theoretically possible to blow off a single session by iming to be ill. But Xerxes had been bitten by the bug of progress. When he first arrived, Katayouns brilliant red hair had been a shock to his system that shoved out thoughts of the Abhorrent invasion, or of repaying Purattus loan. And it had been a relief to get out of the school the previous week, after being cooped up for so long.
But his head was on straight and he knew he needed to make some serious advancements. So he decided to stay on campus instead of joining his friends.
Its fine, he said. Just go without me.
Are you kidding me? Jad said. You can just skip the session. Submit an application and say you pulled a muscle or something.
I love you guys, Xerxes replied, but I want that spell formation time. You heard about the rewards theyre going to give to the first twenty who reach High Seer.
Hes got a point, Kashtiliash said.
Though the announcement hadnt been exined in full detail, everyone knew that the first batch of Seers who reached a breakthrough point with their chamber of energy would receive something. Some said it was a reward of gold shekels. Others believed it would be in the form of medicinal pills or mastercraft weapons. Still others theorized that the new High Seers would get to live off-campus.
Come on, Enusat drawled, theres no way any of us will get into the top twenty.
Not necessarily, Teucer said. Xerks almost got eight Flushes.
Wait, what? Enusat said.
Feigning indignance, Xerxes said, It wasst week. Werent you paying attention?
Enusat grinned and rubbed his cheek absentmindedly. Guess I was distracted.
Jad elbowed him. Thinking about her, huh?
Enusat was the first of the entire group to actually win the attention of a girl. A friend of Arwia from their ss, his new girlfriend had thick eyebrows and a lot of piercings evenpared to the rest of her Sin-Masupatriots.
Guilty as charged, Enusat said. I swear to the Pontifarch Im going to sneak over to the girl dorms soon just to see er.
Dont, Kashtiliash grunted.
Hes right, Teucer chimed in. You get caught, itll be your second time as far as theyre concerned. Youll get in big trouble. Maybe even kicked out.
Jad nodded. If you do go, Enusat, youll have to n it out perfectly. No mistakes. In any case, if Xerk-man wants to spend the afternoon meditating, then lets let him. Hell, if he gets into the top twenty and gets a room outside the campus, then well have the perfect ce to rx!
Oh yeah, didnt think of that, Enusat said.
Xerxes spent the afternoon meditating, and the evening studying. He was making progress with the Asgagu Sebum rune as well. Unlike progress with the chamber, rune progress wasnt as clear-cut. Much of it had to do with personal understanding, and couldnt be quantified. However, Xerxes was confident that it wouldnt be long after his breakthrough that he could at least make an attempt at casting Minor Augmentation.
The next day, Restday, Xerxes wanted to go for another round of meditation, but in the end, gave in to the Swordsmasters urgings to join them. They took him to a gambling hall where Jad, Enusat, and Teucer all lost a handful of minas, while Kashtiliash and Xerxes came out ahead by a few.
Lucky bastard, Enusat grumbled. Youre treating us to lunch.
The gambling earnings did indeed pay for a noon meal.
After, they prowled a part of the bazaar theyd never been to up to this point. Most of the stalls sold art such as paintings, tapestries, and the like. However, nestled here and there were interesting shops, such as one that sold decorative knives, and another that peddled items made from feathers.
Enusat seemed particrly interested in feathers, but Xerxes wasnt, so he waited outside, leaning against the wall and thinking. A momentter, Kashtiliash came out and joined him.
Feathers? the bearded mage said. Ill pass.
Xerxes chuckled.
They stood in silence for a few minutes, until Kashtiliash tilted his head at an odd angle.
See something? Xerxes asked, following his gaze.
Maybe. Someone in a mask. I swear I saw him earlier.
Xerxes looked back in that direction but saw nothing.
After another hour of exploring, they headed back toward the school. About halfway there, when going through the central part of the bazaar, they entered a section with timepieces and other quasi-mechanical wares. Xerxes, thinking it would be funny to startle the other Swordmasters, tried to go around a section of vendor tables to get ahead of his friends, where he would then jump out when they werent expecting it. However, on the other side, he realized the aisle veered in a different direction. By the time he circled back around, the others were gone. And standing across the way was a cloaked man in a bronze mask.
Is he looking at me? Xerxes thought.
Feeling odd, he turned and went in the opposite direction, making some random turns at intersections.
About five minutester, he looked over his shoulder. The masked figure was there.
Shit, he thought. He really is following me. Who the hell is he?
The nearest intersection was at least thirty feet away. And though it wasnt packed with people, it wasnt empty either. As he considered whether or not to run, he felt a hand grab his shoulder.
Seer Xerxes, fancy running into you here.
Chapter 44: Great Risks Come With Great Rewards (1)
Chapter 44: Great Risks Come With Great Rewards (1)
Xerxes tried to jerk free from the hand on his shoulder, but its grip was so tight it felt like steel.
Calm down, the voice said, and he turned his head to find the masked figure standing behind him. Dark eyes were visible through the mask. And Xerxes could tell this person was roughly the same height as himself. Other than that, it was impossible to tell anything about the figure. Gloves covered his fingers. The hood of his cloak was deep. All Xerxes could tell was that this person was a man and that his voice was familiar.
Who? he managed, but the voice interrupted.
Do not speak my name aloud. Im Archon Shabadras, and Immunicating with you mentally. Nod if you understand.
Xerxes hadnt noticed it before, but now he realized that the voice wasnt reaching him via his ears. It was just there. In his mind.
He nodded.
Sorry for the dramatics, but I wish to speak with you in private. Follow me.
The Archon passed him with a swish of his cloak and began walking in the same direction Xerxes had originally been heading. Xerxes followed. At the next intersection, Shabadras turned right, then ducked behind one of the tarps separating two vendor stalls. They squeezed into another aisle, then through more tarps. Around a corner.
Finally, they emerged into a stall that sold items such as brooms and brushes. It was empty, and the outward-facing side of the stall was closed off, as vendors often did when they closed shop for lunch or the night.
Archon Shabadras held a finger up to the lips of his mask. Then he reached under a table and into a box, from which he pulled out a bundle of cloth and another bronze mask. He handed them to Xerxes.
Put them on, he projected.
Xerxes unfolded the cloth to find that it was a cloak. He threw it open and put it over his shoulders. He slipped the mask on, then pulled up the hood.
This way, Shabadras said. The Archon led the way through anotherbyrinthine path of vendor stalls and side aisles. Eventually, they reached one of the main thoroughfares, whereupon Shabadras led the way straight toward a building with a veneer of bronze statuary, and a sign that read Bronze Bull.
Hold on, Xerxes thought. Isnt that a brothel? Theres no way hes taking me to.
That was exactly where Shabadras was leading Xerxes. When they entered the front of the establishment, the Archon headed to the side, up a staircase, and into a back room.
Once inside, he closed the door, then put his hand against it for a moment.
Xerxes saw mm flowing, and then sensed a change in the air pressure around him.
At that point, Shabadras threw his hood back and took his mask off.
Go ahead and do the same, the Archon said.
Xerxesplied.
The room was most definitely a brothel room.
A massive bed upied the far end, plush with silk sheets and numerous pillows. Erotic paintings festooned the walls, and perfume hung in the air.
What the hell is going on? Xerxes thought.
Have a seat, Shabadras said, gesturing at a sofa off to the side, nked by two chairs. I apologize for the suddenness, but youre a hard man to pin down.
Eying the Archon, Xerxes lowered himself onto the sofa.
I needed to talk with you off-campus, but youve been quite studious over the past few weeks. Im notining. But it made things difficult.
Xerxes was still confused and somewhat leery. Why off-campus?
Safety. He gestured at the door. Theres a spell formation at work that will give us privacy. As for the venue He looked around as he took one of the chairs, then his brow furrowed. Oh, this is sort of an odd setting for a first meeting. I didnt really think about it, as we have safe meeting locations set up in a variety of ces that we hope our enemies wouldnt think to look for us in.
Enemies?
The Eternal Father Cult. And the Abhorrent.
Everything from Mannemid came rushing back. The attack on the bridge. Bels death. Ninsunus betrayal. He blinked. You said that we have safe meeting locations. Who do you mean by we?
Good question. I represent a faction in the Mage Parliament that, for centuries on end, has been entrusted with keeping an eye on the cult. Now that the Abhorrent haveunched an invasion, and the cult is more active than ever, it stands to reason that were taking an active role in keeping the empire safe.
Its for that reason I went to these lengths to talk with you in private. But first, I want to make sure that our conversation remains confidential. He pulled out a strip of parchment and a small cauldron. Please read this blood oath. If you agree to sign it, mark it with blood and then well burn it to seal the oath.
Xerxes took the parchment and read it. It bound him to confidentiality regarding his meeting with Shabadras, as well as any subsequent activities tasked him by the Archon. He didnt ask what would happen if he refused to agree to it. He signed it, then handed it back to Shabadras, who burned it.
Good, the Archon said. With that out of the way, let me exin what I have in mind for you. Simply put, I want you to infiltrate a local cell of cultists with the goal of identifying the leaders in the organization. Whenever we bring in a new ss of students, they target them for recruitment, and its too perfect of an opportunity to pass up.
It wasnt anything Xerxes had been expecting this meeting to touch on, but on the other hand, it wasnt surprising. Okay. But why me?
Two reasons. First, you were endorsed by High Mystic Purattu from Ku-Aya. Second, youve had dealings with cultists.
I suppose I have.
Of the entire group in the current student body, a mere handful have ever encountered a true cultist. And youre the only person who killed one. Another of those with cult experience has been selected to partner with you. The two of you will work together to worm your way into the ranks of the cult. Find out who the leaders are. And report back to me.
I know you might be worried about the danger. And thus, Im willing to offer you a bit of a reward. Identify the leader of the Eternal Father Cult on Sin-Amuhhu, or at least someone connected directly to that person, and Ill personally endorse you for an officermission.
Chapter 44: Great Risks Come With Great Rewards (2)
Chapter 44: Great Risks Come With Great Rewards (2)
Wait, what? Xerxes blurted, not sure hed heard right.
During the assessment, your written test score was bad but not horrible. If youd scored even a bit better, you might have made it into the group of officers. Perform well on this mission, and Ill press the High Archon to promote you.
Xerxes was at a loss for words.
Archon Shabadras smiled. I can see youre a bit taken aback. Id expect nothing less. Reaching into his robe, he pulled out a small leather-bound tube and handed it to Xerxes.
Xerxes took it. Whats this?
Some bits of information. Dont open it now. After we part ways in a moment, head back to the campus and find a private moment to study everything. Youll find a written invitation to a cult meeting that we intercepted. That will be your ticket in the front door, so to speak. Theres a map as well, showing you where to go. One week before the day of the meeting, youll meet your partner at a shop in the northwest of the bazaar that sells coffee. Youve heard of coffee before?
Of course.
Good, the first meeting with your partner will be an opportunity to n how youll attend your first cult meeting. The week after that, youll make contact with a representative of the cult, who will vet you for further meeting attendance. You need to do well in that initial meeting. Inside the leather tube, youll also find some spending money to assist your efforts, plus two Double-Concentrated Mm Pills.
Fingering the smooth leather, Xerxes said, Double-Concentrated Mm Pills?
Yes. Keep them hidden from even your closest friends, as theyre not a type of pill a Seer should have. The name exins the pill. They contain twice the amount of mm youll get from a Concentrated Mm Pill.
Xerxes didnt need to do much thinking to realize what that meant. A Seer could use an ordinary Concentrated Mm Pill to fill their chamber of energy by about half.
Each pill can max out my chamber? he asked.
Exactly. After your next Flush, you can use those pills to perform two more Flushes back-to-back. Im giving you the pills because epting this mission will take time away from your meditation routine. How far have youe in that regard?
Im heading toward my eighth Flush.
Excellent progress! Once you hit eight, use the pills to get to your tenth. After that, youll need two more to reach the High Seer level. Who knows, you might be able to make the top twenty, depending on how things y out. Now, do you have any questions?
Xerxes mind was spinning such that he couldnte up with anything other than some rudimentary questions. After a few minutes, the Archon showed him to a back entrance and instructed him where to get rid of the robe and mask before returning to the campus. He did as asked, and before long, was back in the school.
It was only as he walked back into his dorm room that he realized he hadnt asked who his partner was going to be.
Where the hell did you get off to? Jad asked.
I tried to go around a section and cut you guys off, but the aisle went a different way. By the time, er.
No one was paying attention to him, as hed walked into the room right into the middle of an argument.
I cant say I agree, Kash, Jad said. You know the saying. Great rewardse with great risks.
Its the other way around, Kashtiliash said.
Huh?
Great riskse with great rewards.
Jad made a hissing sound. Whatever, Kash. The point is that if Enusat wants to make an impression, this is definitely the best way.
Exactly, Enusat said.
What did I miss? Xerxes asked, climbing up to his bunk.
Im doing it, Enusat dered. Im going to the girls dorms tonight.
Seriously?
The shorter mage red up at him. What, you think I shouldnt?
I never said that. Given the angle, he knew Enusat couldnt see what he was doing, so he took out the leather tube and slid it under his pillow. Later, he would transfer it into the safety of his locked strongbox.
Okay, then, Jad said. What do you think?
Considering what happenedst time, he wanted to say absolutely not. Things had gone bad even before the school added student patrols.
But.
Jad and Enusat were on the same side of the disagreement, and Kashtiliash was opposed to them. All things said, Xerxes liked Kashtiliash the most out of the group. He was taciturn, sure, but he seemed the most in touch with reality. Jad and Enusat didnt think things through very well, and just seemed more immature in general.
That said, by now, they all recognized Jad as their leader. Not only did Xerxes not want to defy the leader of the group, but also, it wouldnt do any good. Even if Xerxes sided with Kashtiliash against another dorm infiltration, Enusat was going to go through with his n.
It would definitely be risky, he said. But the reward would be incredible. Just.
Just what? Enusat said.
Just remember what happened to me. And that was before they added student patrols. Its going to be even harder this time around.
The big-nosed mage smiled. Thats why Ive got to do it. The arder the mission, the better the reward will be. Besides, Im going to ave a great partner to keep me safe.
Not me, Kashtiliash said.
Enusat shot him a re. I wouldnt take you if you wanted to go, you bastard.
Jad chuckled. Calm down, boys. We all know Enusats talking about me.
Enusat sighed. Jad, you and me are closer than brothers. But in this case, I need someone who as experience. And thats why Xerksing with me.
Me? Xerxes said, barely managing to keep the disappointment out of his voice. Right when he was on track to bing an officer, Enusat was trying to drag him off to break the rules. I mean I was the one who got caughtst time. You dont want me to jinx you, right?
Its the opposite, Xerk, Enusat said. A bull doesnt gore you twice, as the saying goes.
Thats not a saying, Kashtiliash said.
Shut up, Kash. It is on Jehannemid. The point is that, ording to math statistics, bringing Xerk along is the best way to make sure the mission seeds. Besides, es got experience, and that means es the most obvious choice there is. Now, weve got a few hours to go over all thetest details I found out. Lets get started.
Theres no way Im doing this, Xerxes thought. No damn way.
He had too much going on. Too much going good. Too much at stake. It wasnt worth it risking all of that for a dumb foray into the girls dorm.
Chapter 45: Getting Back to Normal (1)
Chapter 45: Getting Back to Normal (1)
This is so stupid, Xerxes thought as he crouched in a shadowy alcove in the corridor, around the corner from a storage closet where Enusat and his girlfriend were chatting with each other.
Hed resisted. Argued. But in the end, it became obvious that if he didnt help Enusat, he would put his rtionship with the Swordmasters at risk.
Lurking there, he wished he had one of those fancy hand-held timepieces. For most of his life, such devices had been luxuries he didnt even bother dreaming about. With Purattus loan and the money his parents had given him, he could afford one. But it had always seemed like a waste of money.
How long has it been? Ten minutes? Twenty? More?
He shifted from one foot to the other and twisted so his left shoulder was against the cold wall instead of the right.
Because Enusat was so much shorter, hed taken the cloak Xerxes had worn during thest infiltration, leaving Xerxes with Kashtiliashs cloak. And the bearded mage was taller, which meant that the cloak was bigger. The thing was cumbersome. When walking, he had to grab the cloak and pull the hem up for fear of stepping on it. But at least it provided excellent cover when he wrapped it around himself.
It wasnt lost on him that Enusats illicit meeting was going much better than his own. He refused to let himself be disappointed.
Seconds ticked by that seemed like minutes. The sooner they were out of the female dorms and back in their own room, the better.
He heard something like the scrape of a shoe against the floor. He peered out of the alcove and into the corridor. It was empty.
What seemed like a few minutester, he heard noise from the opposite direction.
It was Enusat and his Sin-Masu girlfriend. Both of them looked disheveled, and Enusat was even tucking his shirt into his pants.
Hurry up, Xerxes hissed.
They passed the alcove, and Enusat leaned toward him and said, Dont get jealous, Xerk. Ill be right back.
By right back Enusat apparently meant ten minutes. At least, thats what it felt like.
When he returned, his hair smoothed out and his shirt tucked in, he said, Mission aplished. Lets go.
They padded through the corridors of the female dorms to the main entrance. The lock had long since been changed, but it had only taken a few days afterward before word spread about how to open it. Outside, it was a cloudy night, which made it easier to sneak around.
As they neared the entrance to the male dorms, Enusat chuckled. Told you it would go smoothly.
They closed the final cubits, and then the shorter mage reached out to the door.
Before he could touch it, it swung open.
Enusat reacted as though a viper were striking at his fingers. He jumped back, running right into Xerxes. Xerxes stepped back, but his foot caught on the damnably long hem of the cloak. His other foot, already in motion to step further back, caught on more fabric, and he tumbled to the ground. As the massive hood flopped over his face, Enusat dropped on top of him, jabbing him in the stomach with an elbow or possibly the heel of his hand.
Fucking ell! Enusat hissed. He rolled to the side, off Xerxes, but his own massive robe somehow got wrapped around Xerxes ankle, and he flopped onto his face.
Enusat shoved at Xerxes with his foot, pushing him away. They started getting to their feet, pulling their cloaks this way and that in the process.
Enusat was up first.
Gandash stepped out of the male dorms, wearing a simple robe with a red sash draped across it from shoulder to hip, with the words Student Guard embroidered on it in gold thread.
Xerxes was on his knees, the hood hanging over his eyes, but he could see the scene clearly.
What? Gandash said.
Enusat stepped forward and shoved him hard in the chest.
Gandash fell with a yelp, and Enusat jumped over him, disappearing into the corridor beyond.
Xerxes was up on both feet while Gandash was using his elbows to get into a sitting position.
His chest tightened as he looked down.
How could this be happening? Gandash was his best friend. Theyd grown up together. Enusat, churlish and somewhat vulgar, was someone Xerxes hadnt even known a few months ago. What the hell was going on? And werent the officers supposed to be off-campus? Apparently they were back.
He stepped forward and extended his hand to Gandash to help him up.
Gandash eyed his hand, but didnt ept it. He climbed up, took a step back so he was standing in the doorway, and then took a breath as if to puff himself up.
Youreing with me, Gandash said.
Xerxes let his hand drop. Huh?
You and your friend have vited school policy. Youreing with me to the main office. The guard will process you and
Xerxes pulled the hood back. Gandy.
Gandash stopped talking and blinked a few times. Xerk?
Ill make this up to you, he whispered.
His friends posture loosened. His shoulders slumped. His lower lip quivered, and he shook his head. Xerk. You I cant believe.
Xerxes stomach seized with guilt. Itsplicated, he said. You wouldnt understand. I can exinter.
Gandash bit his lip and shook his head even harder.
I understand , Gandash said, stepping out of the doorway. He made an exaggerated weing gesture as if to say go on in, then he turned and walked away.
Xerxes stepped to the door. Gandy, he said.
His friend just kept walking.
Shit. With onest look at Gandash, he entered the male dormplex. As the door closed behind him and he hurried toward his dorm room, his throat felt thick.
He half-expected the dorm to be locked, but it wasnt. He entered, closed it, and locked it.
What happened? Enusat whispered.
Yeah, Jad added. Whats going on?
Xerxes didnt say anything. He pulled the big cloak off himself, balled it up, and threw it into the corner.
Ey, Xerk! Enusat said, even louder. What the fuck appened? Did that bastard
Shut up! Xerxes yelled, stomping over, kicking his shoes off and climbing up to his bunk.
Xerk, if e says something, we both
I said to shut the FUCK up! He threw himself onto his pillow, crossed his arms, and started up at the ceiling.
After that, nobody said anything.
Chapter 45: Getting Back to Normal (2)
Chapter 45: Getting Back to Normal (2)
The next morning, the atmosphere in the dorm room was tense. As they readied for breakfast before morning assembly, Enusat quietly told the story of the previous night, while constantly ncing at Xerxes out of the corner of his eye.
When he finished, Kashtliash said, Well, shit.
After that, Xerxes could tell that they were waiting for him to chime in, but he wasnt in the mood.
Finally, Jad said, If Randy if Gandash reported youst night, there would already be people knocking on our door.
True, Kashtiliash said.
I guess youre right, Enusat said. But e could always say somethingter. Yet again, he nced pointedly at Xerxes.
Ill talk to him, Xerxes said. Back on Mannemid, he and Gandash had gotten into mischief, often with Bel at their side during their time at the Academy. None of them had been snitches. He had faith that his friend wouldnt rat him out. However, there was more at stake here. He needed to talk to Gandash.
Unfortunately, throughout that day, whether it was by ident or design, Gandash always seemed to be with other people, leaving Xerxes no opportunity to talk to him. After dinner, when the Seers were supposed to be meditating or studying runes, Xerxes finally just walked over to his dorm.
When he knocked on the door, a grim-faced Seer with the short hair of an Al-Ga native opened the door.
Yeah?
I want to talk to Gandash.
Oh, its you. Hold on.
The door closed.
Xerxes backed away, leaned against the wall, and crossed his arms. A momentter, Gandash opened the door and stepped out into the hall.
What, he said, more of a statement than a question.
Xerxes looked up and down the hall. Aboutst night.
What about it?
Are we are we cool?
Gandashs jaw jutted out. Cool? No. We are not cool. But am I going to report you? No.
I can exin what was
Dont, Gandash interrupted. I dont care. Look, Xerk, youre wee to do whatever you want with your new friends. But Im not going to do anything like this again. Ever again.
Fine. Its not going to happen again.
Gandash turned back to the door.
Gandy.
Gandash looked back. What.
Xerxes took a breath, held it for one second. Then two seconds. He exhaled. Never mind. Just thanks. I owe you.
Without another word, Gandash walked into his dorm room and shut the door behind him. The lock clicked.
It took a day or two for things to smooth out with the Humusi Swordmasters. However, when it became clear that there wouldnt be any repercussions from the escapade, Enusat and Jad became visibly rxed and more jovial.
By the end of the week, everything was back to normal, except with Gandash. They hadnt talked much or interacted very often in the academy, but whenever they passed each other, they smiled and nodded. Now, Gandash didnt notice him at all, or at least, he pretended not to notice.
That weekend, the Humusi Swordmasters didnt argue when Xerxes said he wanted to spend the weekend meditating and studying.
Despite thepse in progress over the previous days, he was still on a roll with his chamber of energy. Using the medicinal pills Shabadras had provided, he seeded with two Flushes. After the second, he grinned as he realized he really did have a solid chance at being in the top twenty. In fact, maybe he would make the top ten, or even better. There hadnt been any indication there were better rewards for those positions, but hed be happy with bragging rights.
As the next week started, his anticipation about the cult infiltration built. He wished more than ever hed asked Shabadras about who the other operative was going to be. The anticipation had him at the edge of his seat.
Of course, as hey in bed at night fantasizing about the best things in life, he prayed to the Monad that his partner would be Katayoun. And then he prayed that it wasnt Gandash. Or Enusat.
In all reality, it would likely be someone he didnt know at all. After all, he was only on a first-name basis with a handful of Seers.
The week crawled by, and he did his best to pay attention during lectures. The standout moments were Epitome lessons with Mystic Rabya.
Nice footwork, she said after one particrly spirited sparring session.
A grin broke out on his face. Really?
She nodded. I can tell youve been working on it. Now we need to start correcting your Squinting sh.
His grin faded, and he readjusted his grip on his sword. What do you mean?
Show me how you do it.
He obliged, shing his sword down, then twisting his arms and shifting his grip.
Stop, Rabya said. What are you aiming for?
Er.
Try again. She squared off in front of him. Go slowly. Ill just stand here.
He tried the move again, with the tip of his sword ending up somewhere near her abdomen. She grabbed it and moved it up higher, toward her sternum. You want it here. She moved it a bit higher, toward her shoulder. Or here. Try again.
His progress with the longsword was tangible, but at the same time, it frustrated him that so much of his previous learning had been in vain. In almost the entire time hed been training with Rabya, hed been unlearning things.
Fourthday and Fifthday went by as slow as msses flowing down a staircase in winter.
On Sixthday, when schedules aligned again, he rejected his friends offer to go out to the bazaar, saying that he had momentum going with his meditation, and that reaching High Seer was now a real possibility. Restday was only a day away. One day until he met his partner in the infiltration operation. One day until he came face to face with the Cult of the Eternal Father.
One day until things got really interesting.
Chapter 46: Right? (1)
Chapter 46: Right? (1)
The day was here. The day that the cult infiltration mission would start.
I thought you were all about meditation nowadays, Enusat said.
Yeah, but. Xerxes hesitated dramatically as he pulled on his clothes. Well theres something else I need to do.
Oh really, Kashtiliash said. Spill.
Its personal.
Knowing that refusing to give information would make them pry for more details, he had put a lot of thought into a story that he hoped would sate their curiosity, although it was only moments ago that he had finalized all the details in his mind.
Its a girl, isnt it? Jad said.
Must be, Enusat added. But not the redhead, otherwise ed be floating on tippy toes.
Xerxes threw one of his old traveling cloaks over his shoulders and shoved his wide-brimmed hat down over his head. Its not a girl. If it was, you think Id be wearing this junk?
Good point, Kashtiliash said.
Okay, if its not a girl, then what is it? Jad said. What could possibly warrant you ditching your best buds on our only full day of rest?
Slumping his shoulders, Xerxes said, Its an anniversary. A death anniversary.
His friends went still.
Back home, Id go with my family to the graveyard to clean the tomb and whatnot. Since I cant do that, I want to at least pay my respects and offer some prayers at the temple.
Temple? Kashtiliash said.
Theres a temple on campus, Jad said carefully.
Not the kind of temple I need to go to. His friends sat there as he stepped over and put his hand on the door. The one I want to visit is to the south of campus.
Whats e talking about? Enusat said.
Kashtiliash grunted. Oh.
It took Jad a momentter to catch up. Oh. Ohhh. Youre a Monadite.
A what? Enusat asked.
We dont call ourselves that, Xerxes said. And, to be honest Im in the One Faith because my family raised me that way. Im not really sure what I believe. But if Im going to pay respects to my dead grandparents, I need to go where theyd want me to go.
Makes sense, Kashtiliash said. You got my support.
Thanks, Kash.
One Faith? Enusat said. Im totally lost ere. What the
Shut up, Enusat! Jad snapped. Did you grow up under a rock or something? Oh, wait. No. You grew up under a bridge.
Enusat leaned over the edge of the bunk and pointed his finger straight at Jad. Say that again when Im olding a sword!
Jadughed. Fine. Lets go outside right now.
Anyway, Xerxes said, pushing the door open, Im not sure how Iong Ill be. I have an idea where the temple is, but Ive never been there. So dont
By this point, Jad and Enusat were bickering and not paying attention to him.
Go, Kashtiliash said. Ill babysit.
Xerxes slipped out of the room. His background as a member of the One Faith was the perfect cover for his activity rted to the cult investigation.
The One Faith was the only religious practice that was tolerated besides the Church of the Pontifarch. However, even from a young age, Xerxes had been skeptical about the teachings his parents espoused. Members of the One Faith were taught that the Pontifarch wasnt real, and that instead, a being called the Monad reigned supreme in the starsea.
As for why the Nergal didnt crack down on the One Faith as he did on any other heretical belief systems, nobody knew. When attending One Faith services, Xerxes had been taught that it proved their faith correct. The Monad was the true, all-powerful being in the starsea, so it only made sense that he kept his followers safe. Yet members of the One Faith experienced just as much death, suffering, and tragedy in their lives as everyone else. So Xerxes wasnt sold on that exnation.
As he left the campus, he thought about Gandash. Unlike himself, Gandash was one hundred percent a true believer in the One Faith. He took his prayers to the Monad seriously, and was quite knowledgeable about theology. Had Gandash been going to the One Faith temple on Restdays? It seemed likely.
Instead of going south, as he had told his friends hed do, he took a circuitous route toward the bazaar, doing his best to make sure he wasnt being followed. He was fairly certain his friends had bought his story, but he wouldnt put it past them to follow him.
Once he was certain he was alone, he headed to the bazaar and pulled out the map from the messenger tube. As he used it to navigate the maze of aisles and vendor stalls, he wondered for the thousandth time who his partner was going to be. He knew it was useless to think about it. But he couldnt stop.
Eventually, he found the meeting location, a ce on the very north end of the bazaar, where the marketce ran right up against a lengthy wall that separated it from the further sections of the city. There were physical shops built into the wall, with some of them being restaurants.
And one of those restaurants had a sign out front that marked it as a ce for coffee and tea.
Having no timepiece, Xerxes wasnt sure if he was early orte, so he went in and looked around. The ce was so shadowy it was impossible to tell if it was clean or not. There were no tables, only booths lining the walls, lit by flickeringmps. In terms of the smell, it was unlike anything hed encountered before. Smokey, nutty, bitter, and sweet, all at the same time.
Smells pretty good, he thought. Now he was a bit excited to try this coffee that hed heard about.
There were a few customers present, but he didnt recognize any familiar faces.
Guess Im early, he thought.
Since no one greeted him, he approached the counter at the far wall.
Ill take one, he said to the girl behind the counter.
She looked at him. One what?
A coffee.
She nodded in the direction of a sign on the wall. He looked at it and saw a huge list of names with prices attached.
Oh. The list was overwhelming. Just a normal one, I guess. Whatevers the mostmon. And inexpensive.
Okay. You want it ck, or what?
He didnt know what that meant, but he liked the color ck in general, so he said, Sure, ck.
A minuteter, she gave him a small ceramic cup with some dark liquid in it. He found a booth and sat. When he took a sip of the coffee, he nearly spit it out. Why would anyone drink this? Ugh.
After that, he waited.
Chapter 46: Right? (2)
Chapter 46: Right? (2)
He felt the cup getting colder and colder in his hands, and he started to think he might have gone to the wrong ce. Tapping the table, he tried to decide who would be the worst possible partner. He and Gandash were in a rough spot, but they were still best friends from childhood. If he walked through the door, Xerxes would feel relieved. In terms of other students, there werent any he hated, and none that hated him, as far as he knew.
The shops door opened, and someone stepped in wearing everyday clothing.
A woman, based on the shape of her legs.
She had a deep-hooded cloak hiding her face as she let the door closed and then looked around the room.
He could tell when her eyes came to rest on him. Then she raised her hand slightly and waved. He lifted his fingers to return the greeting. So, this was his partner. There were a few people he could rule out, such as the stick-thin Ningal or Dasi with all her ear and nose rings, which clinked when she walked.
Keeping her hood up, the woman walked to the counter and spoke with the shopowner in low tones. Then, a cup of coffee in hand, she slid into the booth across from Xerxes.
As she did, themplight touched her face, and his heart nearly stopped beating at the sight of her red hair.
No. Way. It took effort, but he kept his jaw from mming onto the tabletop below.
Hi, Xerk, Katayoun said. I could hardly stop froming over and talking to you about this mission for the past two weeks. Can you believe they picked us?
Er um. He couldnt even form coherent words.
She looked at him through the steam from the coffee cup. You okay?
He lifted his ice-cold coffee, took a sip, and barely managed not to nch from the bitterness. Im fine, he said.
You look off.
No, Im really okay. I just er, so were together now. Together? he thought, trying hard not to cringe.
They didnt tell you?
Feeling a bit morefortable now that words wereing out of his mouth, he said, I didnt ask. I was so surprised by the assignment itself that I didnt think about it. In fact, I didnt ask any questions at all. This whole time, Ive been wondering who Id be working with. I was hoping it would be you.
She tilted her head to the side, and in the darkness of her hood, he could see her smiling. Oh? What do you mean?
J-just that he stammered, realizing how weird it must have sounded. I mean were both from ck Jackal, you know, so were kind of the same ssroom is good
Sheughed. I get it.
He took another sip of disgusting coffee just to have a reason not to talk.
Do you know why they picked you? she asked.
Oh, yeah.
She looked at him expectantly.
You idiot, he cursed himself. Back on Mannemid, thats where Ie from, but you know that already, anyway, back there during the Abhorrent invasion, I fought some cultists. I mean, more than just fought. I killed one. She was a High Seer.
Katayouns eyes widened. You killed a High Seer cultist? Thats pretty amazing.
His mouth twitched into a grin. Well, yeah. He decided not to exin that hed cut her down from behind when she was distracted. Instead, he continued, What about you? I mean, I didnt even ask who my partner was, much less why they picked you.
She reached up as if to tuck her hair behind her ear, except her hand ran into the hood. She put her hand back to her coffee cup. Itsplicated, she said. But basically, I know a bit about the cult. I had a family member who was in it. My brother, actually. It didnt turn out well for him. And because of that her tone hardened I hate them. A lot. Thats why they picked me. Also, I know some of the terminology and whatnot.
Oh. Thats well, Im sorry to hear that.
Its fine.
After that, there was a silence that Xerxes dreaded was going to turn awkward. So he said, Anyway, should we talk about the mission?
Sure. Reaching into her cloak, she pulled out a leather tube simr to his, popped it open, and pulled out the flyer, which she spread out on the table in front of them. The actual recruitment meeting is next week. Today were just supposed to get our story straight.
Our story?
She looked up from the flyer. You know. Why were going to the meeting? Why were going together?
He felt like aplete idiot, and in fact, was concerned that his brain wasnt working at all. Oh, that. Yeah, Ive been thinking about that.
Really? You have some good ideas?
I guess. What about you? He wasnt lying. Hed assumed their cover story would be that they both happened to find a flyer at the same time, and had been talking about it since.
Well, she said, I was thinking of saying that my friend Kishar found the flyer and showed it to me. It caught my attention. Then you and I got assigned to the same squad for practical training. That part was essentially true. Then I identally mention to you that I had a family member in the cult. You and I started talking about it, and we agreed we wanted to check it out together.
Hunh, he said. That sounds reasonable.
Right? I mean, the most obvious cover story would be that were boyfriend and girlfriend. But that would be a tough act to maintain. After all, its not like you like me or something. Right?
She was looking right at him. He looked back.
This was the closest hed ever been to her. So close that, if he wanted to, he could reach out and touch her.
Its not like you like me or something. Right?
How was he supposed to answer that? What answer did she want? Was she expecting him to say that he didnt like her? The truth was that he liked her so much that he wanted to lean across the table and kiss her.
But he couldnt say that, could he? He couldnt just outright reveal what he was really thinking?
He took a deep breath and opened his mouth to respond.
Chapter 47: The Reluctant Boyfriend (1)
Chapter 47: The Reluctant Boyfriend (1)
Its not like you like me or something. Right?
A simple question. And such aplicated one to answer. He could deflect. Change the subject. Feign ignorance. Lie.
Wrong.
She leaned back slightly and touched her throat. What?
I do like you.
Was he really the one saying this?
You do?
He swallowed hard. There was no going back now. Putting his hands t on the table as if to hold himself up, he said, Yeah, I like you. Ive always liked you, from the moment I saw you. I wanted to say something but I was too nervous. Youre always around friends. Then the thing happened with the soup. And that was embarrassing. But you showed up in the ss, so I thought something would happen, but it didnt. And then the incident at the dorm, and. Oh, the earring of course. Anyway. So yeah. I do like you. But if you dont feel that way its fine. He suddenly wished he could crawl under the table, but forced himself to keep talking. I can handle that. I mean, Im not going to go crying or something, everybodys entitled to feel the way
She reached out and put the tips of her fingers on top of his. He stopped talking.
I feel the same.
It was his turn to look at her in shock. Really?
After what happened with the earring. But then everything you did seemed sort of brash. And then there was the dorm incident. It made me hesitate.
That.
She pulled her fingers away, and he wanted to hold onto them, but didnt.
I saw you that night, she said. I was the one who opened the door. Then you ran. And the next day, your friends said they did it, but I knew they were lying. She hesitated. Why?
Why did they take the fall? he said.
Why did you let them?
The question felt like a punch to the gut. He looked away from her and shook his head, trying not to look frustrated. At morning assembly, I was scared at first. But in the end I decided to step forward and say that I was the one who went into the dorm. Except Jad jumped out and took responsibility because he threw out the idea to begin with. And before I knew what was happening, it was over. Afterward, if Id gone forward and told the truth, it would have just caused more trouble for them.
I noticed you didnt leave the campus the entire time they were in trouble.
Yeah. It was the least I could do. By the way, it was also Jads fault that I fell in the dining hall. That was part of it too.
She smiled. When you spilled the soup?
Yeah, then.
With a final sip, she finished her coffee.
Well, at least thats out of the way. And now we have a much better cover story. Im getting some more coffee, you need a refill?
No, Im fine.
Then she went back to the counter, leaving Xerxes sitting there feeling like his head was spinning in circles. This must be a dream.
He bit his lip a bit harder than necessary until it nearly bled.
It was definitely real. He turned his head to look at Katayoun at the counter ordering more coffee. She was looking at him. This time, she didnt look away. He smiled. She smiled back.
She liked him. And she was fine with him liking her? Before he could get his mind wrapped around it all, she was back.
We can talk about other stuffter, she said. And believe me, theres a lot. For now, I think the most important thing is to n our next step.
Right.
An hour passed during which they discussed everything from the direction to approach the meeting, to what they would wear. She told him that cultists tended to wear different clothing than ordinary people.
Its not a rule, she exined. More of a tendency. I think they like recruiting people who are different. Either way, we need to do some shopping.
They left the coffee shop and started wandering the bazaar looking for clothing to fit the bill. Apparently, Katayoun was familiar with the generalyout of the market, and knew just the right ces to look. They browsed clothing, and as she helped him, he couldnt help but notice how often she touched him. Brushing his elbow as she helped him put on a cloak. Putting her hand at the small of his back when pointing out a tunic she liked. Sometimes when she spoke, her lips were so close to his ear that her breath caused his chest to fill with fire
They purchased dark clothes and new cloaks. The cloaks werent the type that fell below the knee, but instead, a variety that hung by the thighs. She also got them fingerless gloves.
Really? Xerxes whispered. Why no fingers?
I dont know, Katayoun said. But based on what happened in my family, Im pretty confident in saying that this is what they wear.
He offered to carry the packages, and before long, his arms were full. Eventually, they had dinner. Minutes after, hed already forgotten what theyd eaten. At a certain point a bitter, as he followed her around a corner, he noticed Jad, Enusat, Kashtiliash, and Teucer about fifty cubits away,ing out of a gambling hall.
Shit, he murmured. Kat, my friends.
Right. She slipped her hand around Xerxes arm and pulled him into a side aisle. The feeling of her hand on the inside of his elbow was electric.
A few intersectionster, she stopped and turned to him. At what point do we tell them? she asked.
About?
About us!
Us? he thought. Everything had moved so quickly he wasnt sure what exactly us meant. Regardless of the specifics, he said, I think we should wait a few days. Enough time for rumors to start circting, but not enough that Shabadras will swoop in and call the thing off because of us.
You dont think hed do that, would you?
Probably not, but Id rather y it safe than sorry.
Good thinking. In that case. she started pulling packages out of his arms and redistributing them. Ill take mine, you take yours. We go back separately and pretend theres nothing going on between us. Next weekend, we meet back at the coffee shop before going to the cult meeting.
Okay.
After she had her packages, she hugged them against herself and looked at him. Im d it''s all happening this way.
Me too.
See you back at the school. Ill go the southern way, you go west. She leaned forward and kissed his cheek. Then, before he could react, she turned and walked away.
He stood there like a block of stone for a good minute or two.
I swear this is a dream, he murmured.
Chapter 47: The Reluctant Boyfriend (2)
Chapter 47: The Reluctant Boyfriend (2)
It wasnt a dream.
Thankfully, his friends were still out when he got back to the dorm room, so he was able to open his packages and put all the new clothing away in private.
Then he climbed up onto the top bunk andy there, staring at the ceiling but not seeing it. Instead, he was reliving what felt like the most perfect afternoon hed ever experienced.
She likes me, he thought. She actually likes me.
He visualized eating dinner with her. Her hand touching his arm. Their conversations. The shopping.
It was really, really perfect.
When his friends came back, he made it seem like hed spent most of the day at the One Faith temple. It helped that Enusat had won big at a gambling hall, and was so excited that he didnt permit much else in the way of conversation topics.
Kashtiliash seemed to notice Xerxes being a bit distant, but he didnt press for details.
Xerxes had heard that coffee was good for staying awake, and now he learned that those rumors were true. Long after his friends were snoring, hey there wide-eyed. Normally speaking, it would have been maddening to be unable to fall asleep. Given the circumstances, he was fine with it. He just kept thinking about Katayoun. For hours. Eventually, when he wasnt sure if it was still night, or actually early in the morning, he dozed off.
And then Firstday came, and lectures and training started anew.
He was already sitting in the back row when Katayoun walked in. The first ce she looked was toward him. He caught her eye and smiled faintly. The corner of her mouth twitched up in response.
The day flew by, and though he felt a bit sleepy, it wasnt bad enough to interfere with ss.
The next morning, the Swordsmasters crew rante because of Enusat, and Katayoun was already at her ce when they walked in. She and Xerxes exchanged another very vague greeting.
Ten minutes into the lecture, Kashtiliash leaned over. Kat, huh?
Xerxes stuck his tongue into his cheek to prevent himself from smiling. He didnt say anything in response.
And he didnt need to. Kashtiliash just nodded gravely.
There was one thing Xerxes really liked about the bearded mage, and that was how untalkative he was. Thanks to that, Jad and Enusat remained clueless about what was going on.
Unlike before, when his deep longing to simply talk to Katayoun had left him distracted for weeks on end, her sudden affections became something that gave him further focus. Although he ached to be close enough to touch her again and smell her perfume, the fact that those things were assured to happen became afort.
On Fourthday, she slipped him a note in passing. It was written in swirling cursive, and contained two lines of poetry praising him. At the bottom was a heart, but no name.
He folded up the note and kept it under his pillow to look at during the following days before falling asleep.
He performed his eleventh Flush on Sixthday evening. I almost cant believe it, he thought.
One more Flush, and hed be a High Seer. Given that tomorrow would be the first day actually interacting with the Cult of the Eternal Father, he wished he could reach that level immediately. But such things couldnt be rushed.
That evening, he managed to get back to the room early and pack his disguise clothing into a bag.
The following morning he had no good excuse to be going off alone.
Hold on, what? Jad said. Youre ditching us again? Are you serious?
Enusat narrowed his eyes. Did someone else die?
Xerxes cleared his throat. I, uh have to, you know, I have
Hes got something to do, Kashtiliash said.
Jad and Enusat looked at Kashtiliash with open astonishment.
You know something, Jad said, grinning. Dont you? Xerxes is keeping a secret and Kash is in on it!
Enusat slid down thedder, put his hands on his hips, and loomed over the bearded mage as hey on the bottom bunk. Lay it out, Kash. Whats going on ere?
Illy you out, Kashtiliash said. Then he yawned.
Xerxes shouldered his pack and opened the door. Ill be backter.
As he walked down the hallway, he heard more chatter from behind him.
Tell us, Kash! Jad said. Were brothers. You cant keep secrets from your brothers!
Fuck off.
Xerxes chuckled.
Once at G Bazaar, he found a shadowy corner where he could change clothes. Off went his mage attire, and on went the disguise. After he was done, he shoved his bag into a narrow alcove between two buildings, covered it with a bit of trash, and continued toward the coffee shop.
This time, Katayoun was waiting for him.
Remembering how disgusting the coffee was, and how it had made it impossible to sleep, he chose to drink herbal tea instead. Sitting down across from Katayoun, he said, Hi.
This week was torture, she said, scooting around the booth until she was next to him. I missed you so much.
Not quite sure what she meant, he just replied, Same here.
Then her head was on his shoulder and his heart was pounding so madly he worried it might pop out of his chest. Instead he slipped his arm around her and they sat together in the booth saying nothing but feeling wonderful.
Eventually, she pulled away. I guess we should get down to business.
Yeah.
I cant believe were actually going to go talk to some cultists. Her expression turned serious. Its going to take effort not to kill them where they stand. Oh, guess what? I made High Seer.
What? he said reflexively. Thats amazing!
Thanks. I didnt tell you, but I actually mastered the Btu Sebum rune before I even left my home starisle.
Wait, he said, turning his head up in thought. Katayoun was a Btu mage, which made her a healer. But as Purattu had demonstrated when fighting the Abhorrent on Mannemid, Btu mages werent just healers. And if shed mastered the Btu Sebum rune, it meant shed unlocked the second line of spellcasting to which Btu mages gained ess. The same line that led to Instant Death. You can cast Slow Death?
She grinned in a way that looked almost malicious. Exactly. And I already have a spellponent pouch full of anisfire sand.
Holy shit, he said. So you can kill someone by just touching them?
Well, in theory, at least. Itll kill an Unsighted in less than an hour. And a Seer in a few hours. I swear to the Pontifarch, if I get a chance, Im going to use it on one of the cultist bastards.
Somehow, he found this vengeful version of Katayoun attractive. Alright, he said. If thats what you want, then well find an opportunity.
But first things first, we need to go to this meeting. Are you ready?
Not really.
In that case, you y the reluctant boyfriend. She reached out and took his hand. Can you do that?
Suppressing a grin, he said, I can.
Chapter 48: Words of the Pontifarch (1)
Chapter 48: Words of the Pontifarch (1)
After they stepped out of the coffee shop, Katayoun linked her arm with Xerxes. It sent tingles down his arm and into the depths of his torso. As they wound their way through the aisles of the bazaar, he tried to clear his head and failed.
Okay, its around the next corner, Katayoun said quietly. You ready?
Ready, he said immediately, even though he didnt feel like he was.
Just pretend like youre bored.
But not too bored.
Right.
The corner led to a very small but uncrowded aisle that abutted a section of city wall. Like most areas in which the city and the bazaar met, the wall had shops built into it. They passed a tent-maker, a honey peddler, and a fletcher. Then came a sturdy wooden door, seemingly unmarked. However, at the edges of the lintel were scratches that might have seemed random to someone unused to neighborhoods like this. There were four triangr shapes in a row, followed by a rough circle.
Thats it, he murmured. Flower Vi.
Are you nervous? she asked.
He suppressed his instinct to say he wasnt. Yeah. You?
Same.
Well do fine.
They maintained silence for the final few steps to the door. He nced over his shoulder and didnt see anything or anyone suspicious.
Katayoun knocked on the door, two times as the invitation indicated. Following the instructions, she waited for about ten seconds, then knocked again once.
More seconds passed.
A viewer slid open, revealing a face backlit by soft, orange light. Nothing was said.
Katayoun leaned forward. Were here for the cheese.
Were out.
I heard you have some smoked varieties.
The viewer closed and they heard a sound from beyond the door, possibly a bar being raised, or a lock being disengaged.
The door swung open.
It was only at that point that Xerxes headiness from being close to Katyoun suddenly gave way to nervousness. They were walking into a den of cultists!
Gripping the door from inside was a young man in typical servant garb. He gestured for them to enter.
Katayoun pulled Xerxes with her as she stepped inside.
They were in a small antechamber of some sort, lit withmps. Everything was bare stone; there were no rugs, tapestries, paintings, or any other decorations.
The servant nced out the door, then closed it and slid a heavy bar into ce.
Go down the corridor that way, he said. Second door on the left.
As they left the servant behind, Xerxes inhaled deeply. He smelled dust, the scent of cooked meat of some sort, and something bitter that could have been old wine. There was nothing noxious hinting at the presence of Abhorrent.
The door was on the left side of the hallway, and being to the left of Katayoun, Xerxes pushed it open.
It led into a wide audience chamber with a few rows of wooden chairs lined up in front of a short dais. The dais itself had a single chair on it, and in that chair lounged a man in somewhat rumpled silk clothing. There was only one other person present, a man with bulky clothes and a floppy hat who nced at them as they entered.
Wee, said the man in silk. Have a seat. Well begin in a minute. Were expecting one more attendee.
There? Katayoun whispered to Xerxes, gesturing at two chairs at the end of one of the rows, somewhat close to the man in the floppy hat.
Xerxes nodded and heaved a sigh. As they sat, she slipped her arm out of his, but snagged his fingers with hers.
Were holding hands, he thought, then immediately cursed himself for thinking something so obvious.
This whole thing was surreal. On the one hand, he was on Sin-Amuhhu with the girl of his dreams. At the same time, he was on a mission to infiltrate the Cult of the Eternal Father, which was involved in an unprecedented Abhorrent attack on the Pontifarchs empire.
Wait, the Pontifarch? He wasnt supposed to believe in the Pontifarch. So who exactly was he fighting for? He squeezed Katayouns hand, and when she squeezed back, all of theplicated thoughts vanished.
Just keep a cool head.
Minutes of silence passed by that were borderline agony for Xerxes. As Seers, he and Katayoun couldmunicate mentally by leaning their heads close to each other. But theyd been instructed not to. He tried to look bored, but not too bored. Whatever that meant.
He wondered what the others in the room were thinking. What would happen next? Would he and Katayoun be called out for being students at the Institute?
Alright! said the man in silk, his voiceing so abruptly that Xerxes twitched. He felt Katayoun nearly jump as well, and the man in the floppy hat looked like hed been startled as well. I guess our other attendee is a no-show. But thats fine. The more intimate, the better. Itll give us a chance to really get to know each other. And with no further ado wee to this little meeting. The man sat up, resting his elbows on his knees and leaning forward. You can call me Navraj.
He looked over the assembled group, his eyes slightly narrowed, the faintest hint of a grin at the edges of his mouth.
Youre all here because you want to know more about whats really going on in this empire. The truth. About magic. About Sighted and Unsighted. About the Pontifarch. You see, what people widely believe to be a reality in these starisles is actually false. The truth is much simpler, but the Pontifarch he lowered his voice doesnt want anyone to know. Not even the Annunaki.
Bullshit, Xerxes thought. The Pontifarch himself was keeping secrets, even from the Annunaki, and this random fellow in a side alley of the G Bazaar knew the truth? It seemed ridiculous.
On the other hand, Xerxes found the mans words oddly reminiscent of sermons at temples of the One Faith hed attended since childhood. The One Faith taught there was a secret truth that only they knew about, while everyone else in the starsea wallowed in ignorance.
Keeping his fingers interlocked with Katayouns, he leaned forward.
Chapter 49: I Said Shut Up (1)
Chapter 49: I Said Shut Up (1)
Katayouns grip on Xerxes hand tightened, and she pulled herself closer to him.
The movement didnt go unnoticed by the intruder Rabbo.
Calm down, little girl, he said. Sit still and nothing will happen to you. As for you, Navraj, Ill
The man in the floppy hat stood. Im done with this shit, he said.
All attention in the room swiveled to him. Xerxes had the feeling violence would soon erupt.
Excuse me? Rabbo said.
The floppy-hatted man put his hand on the back of the wooden chair hed just been sitting in and pushed it aside, causing a grating sound to echo in the chamber. He stepped free of the rows of chairs.
Im leaving, he said.
I dont think so, Rabbo said.
The floppy-hatted man stopped. He was now standing close to the back doorway, which was blocked by the armored thugs. The man looked at Rabbo. You cant detain me. The city guard
Will never know how you died, Rabbo said. He smiled. If you dont calm down.
The mans hand dropped to a knife sheathed at his waist. Im very calm.
Rabbo, what are you doing? Navraj said. You cant just
I can do whatever I want! Rabbo snapped.
The two began arguing.
Meanwhile, Katayoun leaned her head close to Xerxes. I think we should pick a side, she projected. Whoever we pick, we could win some points by helping.
Youre right, he replied. To be honest, this Rabbo character seems like an asshole.
I agree.
You think you can handle three thugs? Katayoun asked. As much as I want tond a killing blow with Slow Death, Id rather save my mm for healing. Just in case.
They dont look like hardcore martial artists. Just muscle. If Im careful, I should be fine.
Seeing that both Rabbo and Navraj had their attention fixed on the floppy-hatted man, Xerxes slid his free hand toward his pocket and the pouch of crabnickel powder there. He slipped his fingers free of Katayouns.
The floppy-hatted man jumped into the argument between Rabbo and Navraj. The tone of the discussion grew heated as they argued back and forth.
Finally, the man pulled his floppy hat down further on his head and growled, I didnt sign up for this!
Then he strode toward the door that led back to the bazaar.
Stop him, Rabbo said. In response, the armored men reached out to grab him.
The floppy-hatted man lurched back and unsheathed his knife. Pointing it at the nearest armored thug, he said, Dont. I wont hesitate to cut you. Just let me pass.
Stop him, Rabbo repeated. Hes not to leave this room!
One of the armored thugs took another step forward. In response, the floppy-hatted man swung his knife.
The blow wouldnt have hit even if the thug stood still. The thug stepped to the side, then grabbed the mans wrist with both hands. They started struggling. A yell rang out. The floppy hat fell to the ground, revealing slick ck hair. The ck-haired man kicked the thug. The thug kneed him.
Bothbatants cursed. After a struggle, the thug wrenched the knife away. He shed it toward the mans throat. The man dodged. But then the follow-up blow came, and the knife connected.
Blood spilled out.
The man slumped to the ground atop his hat.
Well fuck, Rabbo said. I didnt say to kill him!
The thug shrugged.
Xerxes, still seated, slid his hand out of his pocket and rested it in hisp. It was full of crabnickel powder. His eyes flickered to take in the position of the armored thugs. Then he nced at Rabbo and Navraj.
He thought back to the desperate battle in that muddy street on Mannemid, in which Gem had lost his life. That day, he had learned the hard way that evenbat veterans could die from an errant knife thrust, and mages werent invincible. But he would not make the same mistakes he had back then. And he wouldnt hesitate to cast a spell. If this situation resulted in a fight, he would make sure Singr Lethality lived up to its name.
Im not giving up my congregation, Navraj said, edging away from Rabbo.
Xerxes moved his index finger until it was just above his palm, and the collection of powder therein.
You are, Rabbo said. Gesturing his thugs, he said. Grab the fucker. If he resists, kill him.
No, Katayoun said, rising from her seat.
What? Rabbo said.
Huh? Navraj said at the same time.
The thugs remained motionless.
Katayouns hand slipped into her pocket, where Xerxes knew she had her ownponents. I said no, she continued. Were here because Navraj invited us. We dont know who the hell you are, and frankly speaking, you seem like a real son of a bitch. So Ill give you two choices. One: leave. Two: die. Its up to you.
Rabbo and Navraj looked at her in astonishment for a good two or three seconds. Then Rabbo burst intoughter.
Wiping a tear from his eye, he said, I have some advice, little girl. Dont take up gambling. You arent a good bluffer.
Xerxes stood and started moving his finger through the crabnickel powder. He felt a tickle of fear in his mind.
One errant sh of a knife, he thought.
You have no idea if Im a good bluffer or not, Katyoun said. Because Im not bluffing.
Rabbos face turned stony. Kill these idiots, he said.
The two thugs who had been moving toward Navraj now stepped toward Xerxes.
He heard the swish of weapons being drawn, but was focused on the rune. As his finger traced thest stroke through the powder, mm surged within him, converging in his hand.
Brilliant light erupted, casting strange shadows in the room as he turned to the nearest thug.
What the ell? the man said.
As Xerxes eyes shifted from the spot where hed been tracing the rune to the iing thugs, he realized the nearest of them had a cheap dagger in his hand, and it was pointing toward Katayoun.
He kicked aside the chair and stepped toward the thug. The surprised thug shifted, pointing the dagger at him instead of Katayoun. Xerxes grabbed it.
A hissing sound could be heard as his burning hand melted the metal. He kept his elbow up so it didnt drip down onto his skin. Sizzling drops of molten metal smacked into the stone floor.
The thug released the weapon, then tried to throw a punch at Xerxes.
Xerxes dodged it, then smashed his hand into the mans face.
Chapter 49: I Said Shut Up (2)
Chapter 49: I Said Shut Up (2)
The initial blow didnt kill the man immediately. Skin melted, and his right eye was destroyed, provoking a blood-curdling scream as he fell backward. Xerxes realized his mistake. In the past, hed struck Abhorrent and killed them in one blow, but that was because hed hit them in areas that werent protected by bone.
He kicked the wounded thug, sending him sliding across the floor and through the chairs. Meanwhile, the second of the three thugs had his dagger out and was holding it in front of him.
Ey, the man said, I didnt sign up to fight a mage. I
Xerxes lunged,unching a jab with his non-enhanced hand. The thug waved his dagger at it, and Xerxes stepped closer and followed up with a blow to the gut. The burning hand bit into the unprotected flesh of the mans belly. He screamed, but the hand was already inside. Xerxes grabbed the wrist of the hand that held the dagger, and used it as leverage to shove his other hand deeper inside.
The thug copsed. If he wasnt dead, he would be soon.
Meanwhile, Rabbo stood in the doorway, his jaw hanging down and his fingers shaking.
Y-you he blubbered.
Xerxes took a step toward him. You made a bad choice today, he said.
By this time, the Singr Lethality spell had worn off, and his hand returned to its normal state.
He took another step toward Rabbo.
Stop right there, Rabbo said, and out from beneath his clothing he pulled a small hand-sized crossbow. It shook as he pointed it at Xerxes. The bolt was small, more like a dart than anything someone would call a crossbow bolt.
Are you kidding me? Xerxes said, grabbing another handful of crabnickel powder. You think thats going to stop me?
Yeah, you fucker! Navraj yelled. You see the kind of people I bring into my congregation? Infected by Xerxes courage, he inched forward, grabbed the cudgel that had been leaning against his chair, and brandished it above his shoulder.
Rabbo swung the miniature crossbow toward Navraj, then back toward Xerxes.
Neither of you fucking move, Rabbo said.
Or what? Xerxes asked.
Ill shoot you! Rabbo said, swiveling his aim back to Xerxes.
No you wont, Xerxes said. He felt certain in this assessment. Rabbo was terrified, and didnt seem like he was ready to shoot someone.
Navraj made a probing step in his direction, and Rabbo swung the crossbow back in his direction.
Xerxes kept tracing the Asgagu Isten rune.
Xerk, be careful, Katayoun said.
I know, he replied. Im just going to
Hey! Rabbo shouted. Are you casting a spell? Stop it right now!
Xerxes made the final line of the rune, and mm flowed. Light shone.
Rabbo jerked the crossbow back toward him. I said to fucking stop!
The crossbow twanged, and the bolt shot out. It was hard to tell if Rabbo had intentionally pulled the trigger or not. The way his eyebrows widened in shock seemed to indicate it wasnt.
Xerxes waved his hand to intercept the missile, but his timing was off. He could catch a knife when the distance and timing were predetermined, but this situation was different.
The dart hit his neck.
Fuck. He reached up with his free hand toward the spot where hed felt it hit. The dart was there, a cold piece of metal sticking out of theskin. Hed been sure the man wouldnt pull the trigger. He pulled his hand away from his neck to find it glistening and red. FUCK!
His knees felt weak.
DIE! Navraj yelled, and he jumped forward with his cudgel. Rabbo spun and pulled the trigger of the crossbow, but being empty, it didnt even click. Then Navraj hit him across the side of the head.
Rabbo crumpled. Howling, Navraj hit him again with the cudgel. Then again and again. Blood sprayed.
Xerk? Katayoun said.
Xerxes took a step back and felt his head spinning.
Xerk! Katyoun said with more urgency. She was by his side. Did you? It hit you? Fuck!
He put his hand behind him looking for a chair, but before he could find one, he felt the urgent need to get off his feet. He copsed, hitting one of the chairs beforending hard on the stone ground. The back of his head smacked against the stone. He could vaguely sense that his hand was still burning thanks to the spell. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Navraj step over to the first thug and smash his skull with the cudgel.
Im Im fine, he said, but he could hear his voice slurring.
No youre not, Katayoun said. But you will be.
He looked up at her and realized she seemed very calm. As if nothing out of the ordinary was happening.
You, Katayoun said. Navraj.
Huh? Navraj said, panting as he stood above the dead thug. Chunky blood dripped from the head of the cudgel.
Theyre all dead. Nowe over here.
Navraj tossed the cudgel away and ran his hand down his face as if to wipe it free from sweat. All he did was smear it with blood.
Im going to pull this dart out, Katayoun said. Take this cloth she held it out to him and push it against the wound to stop the blood flow.
What? Navraj said. I cant
DO IT! she bellowed.
He took the cloth.
Three, she said. Two. One. Now.
She yanked the dart out of Xerxes neck, and he felt a twinge of pain.
Oh Father, Navraj said. Theres so much blood. Its like a river. Oh my
Put pressure on it! Katayoun yelled.
Right.
A river of blood? Im not going to survive this, am I? Xerxes couldnt see what Katayoun was doing. Presumably trying to cast a spell. But as he felt the blood pumping out of him, he thought back to when Gem hadin in a muddy street in almost this same position. And it had only taken moments for him to slip away into death.
This is it, he thought. This is my payback for letting Gem die. And Bel.
Im sorry, Kat, he said, wondering how many more seconds he had before things went ck, and he never woke up.
For what? she said back. Was she tracing the Btu Isten rune? Would the spell work? Probably not. There wasnt enough time.
Tell Gandy Im sorry for being an idiot. Hes my best friend. And you have to get word to my parents. And my sister, Ahassy. Shes
Shut up, Katayoun said.
only eight, and she loves dolphins and
SHUT UP! Katayoun yelled.
W-what?
I said shut up.
Light shone, and Katayoun touched him. He felt tingling and warmth as his neck wound healed.
You can take the cloth away, Katayoun said to Navraj.
A few secondster, the strange sensations passed. Xerxes lifted his hand and touched his neck. There was no hole. Only skin and a bit of blood.
She put her hand behind his neck and pulled him into a sitting position. I said youd be fine.
He pushed his fingers harder into his neck. There was no trace of pain.
Wow, he said. I I dont know what to say.
Worry about itter, she said. We have more pressing things to deal with. Like these dead bodies.
Chapter 50: Abhorrent Food (1)
Chapter 50: Abhorrent Food (1)
As it turned out, dealing with the bodies wasnt that difficult. Navraj, despite being shaken up, knew just what to do.
He broke into my meeting location, Navraj said. And killed my door guard. Werepletely justified in all this.
Im not sure the city guard will agree, Xerxes replied dryly, looking at the bodies and the blood.
Navraj tsked. I mean in the eyes of the Father. The guard will never find out what happened here. He stepped over and put a hand on Xerxes shoulder. Ill never forget what you did here today. You saved my life.
Xerxes eyes flitted to Katayouns. We saved your life, he said.
Navraj nodded. And I owe the two of you because of it. For now, just leave. Ill take care of this mess. Im skipping the normal vetting process and authorizing you to attend regr meetings. Reaching into a pocket he pulled out a slip of brown paper he had folded into a square. Memorize the address there, and the knocking pattern, then destroy the paper. By fire, preferably. Show up next week at the second hour after noon. Meeting locations change monthly, and the next one is thest one at this location, so dont miss it.
Xerxes took the paper. Understood. So well just see ourselves out?
Navraj nodded. Go the way you came. Close the door behind you. Ill put the bar in ceter.
Thus ended their initial meeting with the Cult of the Eternal Father.
Out in the bazaar, Xerxes and Katayoun walked in silence until they were a good distance from the meeting location. Then Katayoun grabbed his arm and sagged against him.
Whoa, you okay? he said, reaching his free hand over and putting it on her forearm.
Im fine, she replied. But that was insane. You could have died!
No, he said. I had you there.
She was looking up into his eyes, her face was inches from his. Her lips.
No, its too soon for that.
They found a public fountain in an out-of-the-way alley where Xerxes washed most of the blood off himself. However, the clothing was too far gone, so they bought some recement pieces. After that, they wandered the bazaar arm-in-arm for a time. They eventually left, heading to a part of town north of the school where they found a quiet ce to have dinner together.
So were in, Katayoun said.
The cult, you mean?
Yeah. I thought itd be more difficult. Other than the nearly dying.
Heughed. Hopefully that means the hard part is over. But, if were going to start going to meetings, then, well.
We need to exin why we go missing on Restday afternoons. Well, thats simple. We just make our rtionship public.
A grin tugged at the corner of his mouth, but he suppressed it. In that case I think I should give you this.
He pulled out the choker hed hoped to give her in the original fateful Operation: Kat Walk. He gave it to her.
She took it. Xerxes, this is amazing. It must have cost a fortune.
Thats what I snuck into the dorm to give you that night.
Smiling, she unsped the choker and put it around her neck. It fits perfectly. How does it look?
Beautiful.
The rest of the dinner was amazing. Xerxes wished the night could just go on forever. But they had to go back.
After changing back into their normal clothing, they returned to the school hand-in-hand. People saw them, and Xerxes knew that rumors would fly. He hurried back to his dorm.
The Humusi Swordmasters were all there lounging around, which was good, because it gave him his chance to tell them himself.
My man! Jad eximed.
Kashtiliash just nodded.
Enusat let out a whoop. Next time Ill ave your back when we sneak to the girls dorms!
Thats not going to happen, Xerxes thought, but given the excited atmosphere in the room, he said nothing.
Word spread like wildfire. The rumor mill in the Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic was such a well-oiled machine that even Mystic Rabya was in the know the following morning.
I heard the good news, she said, her face expressionless as she eyed Xerxes.
Xerxes heart thumped in his chest as he suddenly wondered if he and Katayoun had broken some school rule that he didnt know about.
Rabya shifted her gaze from Xerxes to Katayoun, and the ghost of a smile appeared on her face. Just dont get distracted from your studies, got it?
Katayoun nodded, and Xerxes did the same.
The day flew by. Lecture. Training. Meditation. Rune study.
The week flew by. There was an increasing emphasis on the military aspects of their future duties. Chain ofmand. Following orders. Learning troop movements. There was an entire ss about interactions between mages and Unsighted soldiers. Rabya worded everything delicately as she exined that the soldiers were conditioned to follow mages with utter loyalty, never questioning direct orders except under the most extreme circumstances. There was a lot that mages, whethermanding officers or not, could do to foster loyalty and teamwork. However, Xerxes got the impression that brainwashed might be a better word to use regarding the soldiers training.
Rabya summed it up by saying it was just one way mages helped the Pontifarch keep order in the empire.
He started joining Katayoun in the library. And enjoying it.
Back on Mannemid, hed never been a fan of reading books, at least outside of rune study. Gandash had been a library person, and had always tried to drag Xerxes and Bel along. It never worked.
But for some reason, studying with Katayoun just felt right. It wasnt as though they held hands, or leaned up against each other when they read. Just being in her presence was enough to ground him.
He tried to convince her to join the sword practice sessions, but she wasnt interested. However, she supported his passion for it; when the Swordmasters gathered, she refused to let him spend time with her instead.
The Epitome has been important to you for a long time, and itll stay that way forever, she said. Im not going to let you get distracted by me.
When he told the Swordmasters about that, they marveled.
Dont let this one get away, Jad said.
I second that, Kashtiliash added.
And he had no intention of doing anything of the kind. The Swordmasters liked her, and she seemed fond of them. Life was perfect.
Then came the cult meeting. Hed assumed they would meet in a shadowy room with candles everywhere, while wearing deep-hooding cloaks. There would be chanting, knives, snakes, blood, and a sacrifice to a summoned Abhorrent.
Instead, there was a twenty-minute lecture by Navraj about the true story of the Pontifarch, most of which revolved around trying to convince everyone that he was born as an ordinary human named Bukru. Xerxes didnt care one way or another if the Pontifarch used to be named Bukruor still was for that matter. But he found the story difficult to believe, despite the supposed historical proof Navraj provided.
After the lecture, Navraj passed around a bowl for donations.
Wait a second, Xerxes thought. Is this whole cult thing just a scam?
He put a mina in before passing the bowl along. There were only ten people present for the meeting including Xerxes and Katayoun, so the process didnt take long.
And now, for some refreshments, Navraj said, whereupon they had some pastries and wine.
Later, on the way back to the school, Katayoun said, That was interesting.
If you say so, Xerxes said. If this wasnt some critical mission, I think I might have passed out from boredom.
Sheughed.
Weeks passed.
Chapter 50: Abhorrent Food (2)
Chapter 50: Abhorrent Food (2)
By now, everyone had fallen into their routines of study, training, and meditation.
Rabyas lessons remained enjoyable, but they became more intense. On one asion, she took them all out of the city to a ce where they learned how to quickly dig entrenchments to keep a military party safe when traveling. Another week focused on political dealings. She even taught them a few spy tricks in case they ended up alone in enemy territory. They also trekked across the city and spent several hours at the Gatewayplex, learning the ins and outs of such locations.
A ranking system was established for the officers, based on formal evaluations, input from the teachers, and aplex wargame system that the non-officers werent told much about. Gandash started out in fifth ce, but quickly moved to fourth. Word started spreading among the non-officer students regarding the names and reputations of the officers, making them quasi-celebrities.
By the time Gandash climbed to third ce in the rankings, it wasmon to hear his name spoken by other students. He had a reputation for being fair and clever. He excelled in the wargames, and had the lowest casualty rate among all the officers. People wondered if he would be able to get to the top spot in the rankings and dethrone Magnus, who had held the first ce spot since the inception of the list.
Aint gonna appen, Enusat said at lunch one day. Randy Gandys a stick. Magnus shoulders are broader than e is tall.
Its not a wrestling contest, Kashtiliash said.
Jad popped a date into his mouth. True. Being an officer is about leading. Strategy. That type of stuff. Randy Gandys always been a bookworm, right Xerk-man?
Xerxes nodded. Yeah. One time when he was like seven or something, he stayed in the library so long he peed his pants.
Enusat nearly chokedughing. Are you serious?
It urred to Xerxes that he shouldnt have brought up the story. If Enusat spread the tale to other students, Gandash would be furious. But he couldnt take it back now. Well yeah. He was so embarrassed he just sat in the chair in a pool of his own well, you know. Until the library closed.
Jad roared withughter. This is amazing. What happened in the end?
His parents had toe get him. But you cannot tell the story, alright? Hed get super angry. I really shouldnt have said anything.
Enusat did spread the story. He apologized to Xerxes afterward, and imed that it had slipped out of his mouth by ident. Xerxes felt no reason to believe him.
Two dayster, Xerxes spotted Gandash stalking toward him after the morning assembly. He ducked into a side hallway to avoid him.
Dammit. He spent the rest of the daying up with clever ways of avoiding his friend. It was the same the day after. By the third day, Gandash had given up on trying to confront Xerxes.
On Sixthday, Xerxes found himself alone with Katayoun at the lunch table, and finally told her about the situation.
I didnt mean to tell the story, but it slipped out, he exined. Convinced she would burst outughing at the next part, he said, You should have seen the look on his face when he realized it was me. I swear his ears were steaming.
He chuckled in anticipation of her joining him inughter. Instead, she frowned.
I thought you said Gandash is your best friend, she said.
Well, yeah. His previous enthusiasm at telling the story faded. What does that have to do with anything?
She tilted her head to the side. Telling embarrassing stories about other people isnt very nice, especially your friends.
Her words provoked a prick of conscience that he suppressed with a guffaw. Nah, Gandys got thick skin. He doesnt care.
He seemed pretty angry the other day after morning assembly.
Xerxes cleared his throat. I dont know what hes all bent out of shape for. Hes rich. Hes almost reached number one in the officer rankings, so hes famous now too. Hes got nothing toin about.
It doesnt matter how famous you are, an embarrassing story is still embarrassing. Maybe you should say sorry.
Yeah, Xerxes said. Of course. I was nning to.
However, he never seemed to cross paths with Gandash, and with each day that went by, it seemed less and less necessary to apologize.
Despite hovering on the brink of a breakthrough, Xerxes struggled with the final steps to form his second chamber. That wasnt an umon problem. There was a lot of talk among the students about bottlenecks and breakthroughs, and how to deal with them. It was no surprise the topic soon came up in lectures.
He wasnt the first to break through to the High Seer level. He wasnt even in the top ten. But he did seed.
He had read about what would happen in the moment of the breakthrough, and Mystic Rabya had even taught a lesson on the subject. Even still, hed hoped there would be some sort of shocking sensation to mark the aplishment. There wasnt. He Flushed all of the mm, formed the second chamber, and went through the stabilization steps. Afterward, there was a brief period of time in which the second chamber attracted mm at an elerated rate, allowing him to fill the dual chambers much faster than was normally possible. Then, the breakthrough waslete.
Just like that, he was a High Seer.
When it was over, he sat in the meditation chamber looking at his hands. He clenched them into fists. Cracked his knuckles.
He didnt feel much different.
Of course, he was different. It wasnt just that he could cast more spells nowassuming he mastered the runes. High Seers were capable of top speeds double that of ordinary Seers. They were considered to be about thirty percent tougher, both in terms of how much damage they could take and how much they could inflict. Their mage sight and mage touch both had twice the range, and mage touch got stronger.
None of that was obvious as he sat there cross-legged, yet he still felt the urge to hold himself up a bit straighter.
He reported his aplishment, and reveled in the sound of his name being read at the following morning assembly. The reward for the top twenty wasnt an apartment outside the school, or anything even close to that. It was a single shekel, an engraved bronze goblet, and a special patch that he could put on his uniform. Not exactly lifechanging, but he still felt proud. And he was especially proud that hed surpassed Gandash, at least in a small way.
Take that, Gandy, he thought. Maybe his friend was a fancy officer, but not even he had achieved that High Seer breakthrough.
At least, not that week.
The following week, Gandash did seed, after two other students, which meant he did squeeze into the top twenty of High Seers.
But Xerxes had beat him there, and nothing could take that away.
A new rumor started to spread.
I heard about it earlier this morning, Jad exined. The Abhorrent haveunched a full-scale invasion. Entire starisles are in mes.
Shit, Xerxes said, sitting up in his bunk. Where? It better not be in the Humusi starisles.
Its not, Jad said.
Xerxes let out a sigh of relief. Good.
In fact, its not even in the Ira starisles. So all of our people back home are safe. But we arent. Obviously. Its only a matter of time before we get shipped out.
Yeah, were being trained to fight the next wave, Enusat said. I eard Mystic Rabya say it erself. Theyre gonna send us all out.
But only a few of us are High Seers, Xerxes said. I thought the whole point was for all of us to break through.
They dont want High Seers, Kashtiliash said. They want cannon fodder.
Quit being so pessimistic, Kash, Jad said. That makes zero sense. Mages are rare and valuable. Especially the more training we get. Theyre not going to pour a ton of money into us only to send us out as Abhorrent food.
Thats what you think, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes wanted to believe Jad. But when he stepped back to think about it, he could see truth to what Kashtiliash said. From the perspective of the Sin-Amuhhu mages, they were all from backwater starisles and hardly counted as being civilized. Was the money being invested in this ss of Seers that exorbitant? Was it possible the military had just conscripted some rtively expensive front-line dummies?
It cant be true, he thought. He had friends who would stick their neck out for him. He was earning a name for himself on one of the greatests in existence. And he had the perfect girlfriend. There couldn''t be something horrific lurking behind what was his best life right now. There just couldnt.
Chapter 51: A Stone Disc (1)
Chapter 51: A Stone Disc (1)
On one Restday in the fourth month, before their cult meeting, Xerxes and Katayoun strolled arm in arm through the bazaar. They halted. In the shadows of a yarn stall lurked a figureArchon Shabadras.
Twenty minutester in a secure location attached to amb butcher shop, he plied them with questions about their time in the cult. Both Xerxes and Katayoun provided summaries.
Xerxes wrapped up by saying, None of it makes much sense to me, Archon, he said. Half of it seems like made-up drivel. The other half is simply unbelievable.
The low-level meetings tend to be like that, the Archon exined. Theyre sort of like an extended vetting session. They want to see how you react to their version of reality, and also do their best to make sure youre not spies. If you win approval, then theyll eventually invite you to join a higher level. Sometimes itll happen after two or three months, other times longer. Hopefully youve made enough of an impression that itll be soon. Its in those real meetings that youll have a chance to start learning more about their leadership. Although you wont meet anyone whos truly in charge, you should be able to interact with people connected to them. By asking the right questions and steering the conversation properly, you should be able to get some clues for us to work with. Maybe even names.
So were just waiting for an invitation? Katayoun asked.
Exactly. If you get one, ept it. Theyll likely make you swear a blood oath before they let you attend any important meetings, and youll have to go along.
A blood oath? Xerxes said. Theres no way we can swear blood oaths of loyalty to the Eternal Father Cult.
Archon Shabadras tapped the arm of his chair for a few seconds. Then he said, Blood oaths are meaningless.
What? Katayoun eximed.
Xerxes eyes went wide. But.
Well, notpletely meaningless, the Archon said. But in the grand scheme of things, they mean little. Even the best and strongest varieties wear off rather quickly. Incidentally, this is highly confidential information that you must not reveal to any of your ssmates. Normally speaking, only High Mystics know the truth about blood oaths.
Hold on, sir, Xerxes said, feeling like his mind was spinning out of control. All of us took blood oaths before beginning our studies.
They were mostly formalities, Shabadras said. Besides, clever individuals can always get around blood oaths, which is why theyre really only useful for short-term arrangements or deals. In any case, if you have the opportunity to get deeper into the cult, go through with it. Now, my time today is limited. Do you have any questions for me?
Yes, Archon, Katayoun said. Weve heard rumors we might get shipped out to fight Abhorrent soon. Is that true?
Shabadras hesitated, as if weighing his words. Yes and no. The end goal was always to send you into the field within a few months. The only question is when, exactly. I dont think the call wille early, but theres no guarantee either way. He rose. I have another matter to attend to. Good luck.
Neither Xerxes nor Katayoun said anything for a good minute after Shabadras left.
I feel like my whole world was just shaken, Katayoun said.
Xerxes let go of a breath he didnt realize hed been holding. Same here. Blood oaths are basically a a
A lie? she said.
Might as well be.
She closed her eyes and shook her head. Well, it doesnt change much, to be honest. We need to stay focused.
The cult meetingter that day went as usual, with no indication that Navraj had any special ns for them.
Rumors raged about the supposed impending deployment to fight the Abhorrent. Xerxes tried to convince the Swordmasters that the rumors were false, but he couldnt reveal his source, so in the end, they didnt believe him. And the truth was that Archon Shabadras hadnt outright denied that they would be deployed. Perhaps they would.
Mystic Rabyas lectures seemed more intense. The training was harder, whether in the Epitome or in the standard sessions. Most interesting of all, an enormous structure of wood and metal pipes had been constructed on one of the back fields, that they used to simte fighting an incrediblyrge Abhorrent.
On Fifthday of the week, at the end of the day, Mystic Rabya stopped Xerxes before he left the training field.
High Seer, she said, emphasizing his title, I have something for you.
She offered him a leather-bound book.
What is it? he asked, moving his hand to the leather string that bound it shut.
Open itter, she replied. Its an old text, a rare one, that touches on the Asgagu Sebum rune. I know youve been studying it. This should help. The parts youll need are in the fifth chapter, although the entire book would probably be worth reading.
Wow, thank you, Mystic Rabya!
Youre wee. Youve made a lot of progress, Xerxes. Probably more than anyone else. When you do get shipped out, being able to cast Minor Augmentation would be a big deal for you. So good luck.
After meditation, when he settled down for rune study, he cracked open the book and was bbergasted.
On the interior title page it read: An ount of the Pontifarchs Understanding of the Asgagu Order. It listed the author as Nanaya, a name that sounded familiar to Xerxes, but which he couldnt ce.
As he started reading the book, he realized it was written as if dictated by the Pontifarch himself. Which made him think about the Monad. If the Pontifarch wasnt real, had the Monad dictated this book? Or was the entire thing fabricated by this Nanaya person?
It didnt matter. It soon became obvious to him that the insights of the book were very real. His understanding of the Asgagu Isten rune confirmed that. He flipped to the fifth chapter and started reading.
Only one paragraph into the text, something clicked in his head. I get it now. The fifth stroke. Its based on the flow of a river.
Even after only a single night, he could sense that he was progressing faster. On Sixthday, he sensed that he would soon be in the position for another Flush.
By Restday, he was ready for another cult meeting. Everything went as normal. Until it came time to part. As Katayoun and Xerxes prepared to leave, Navraj pulled Xerxes aside.
Do you mind staying a few minutester than usual? I want to talk with you about something?
Just me? Xerxes asked.
Navraj grinned. Both of you.
Sure.
Chapter 51: A Stone Disc (2)
Chapter 51: A Stone Disc (2)
After the other cultists left, Navraj said, Thanks for staying. I want to extend an invitation to both of you. Next week, we have a special guest. A speaker of some note, visiting from another starisle. Would you like to attend?
Katayoun looked at Xerxes, and he looked back. He shrugged, and, not having to try very hard to sound bored, asked, Whos the guest?
Not even I know that, Navraj said. But I guarantee itll be worth attending. Special meetings like this are not to be missed.
In that case, sure, Katayoun said.
Wait, Xerxes said. When is it? The same time as the normal meeting?
Unfortunately no, Navraj replied. Its on Fifthday in the afternoon.
Damn, Xerxes said reflexively. Thats pretty much impossible.
No, its not, Katyoun said. She reached out and put her hand on top of his. Itll be difficult, but we can do it.
How? he asked.
Well figure it out.
Navraj gave a crooked grin. Good. Meet me at the winged bull statue by the northwest gate of the bazaar. Do you know the ce?
Yeah, Katayoun said.
An hour past noon, he continued. Show up on time, and Ill take you with me to the meeting. Dont bete. I wont stick around waiting.
Xerxes nodded. Well be there.
On the way back to the school, Xerxes said, How the hell are we supposed to sneak out of the school right in the middle of sses? Shabadras made it clear all of this stuff is off the books.
I have a favor I can call in, Katayoun exined.
**
Gandash made it to second ce in the standings that week. What was more, the top twenty High Seers were established. Thetter event happened on Seconday. After that, more and more breakthroughs urred. By Fourthday, there were already fifty High Seers among the students, one of them being Katayoun, and another of them, Jad.
When Fifthday came, Katayouns favor got her and Xerxes outside of the campus during school hours. A teacher had asked one of her friends to collect materials for a school project. However, the friend had purchased the items much earlier, and stored them in a bank vault for the specific purpose of taking time during school hours to go shopping for them. The friend owed Katayoun, thus allowing her to take over the shopping responsibility. She brought Xerxes with her, and managed to talk both of them past the gate guards.
We have three hours, she said. That should be more than enough, right?
Hopefully. I guess we should have asked how long it would take. The meetings neverst more than thirty minutes, though.
Navraj was waiting at the appointed spot. Good to see you two, he said. Follow me.
Shortly thereafter, they left the bazaar and entered the residential streets beyond.
Minutes stacked on top of minutes. How far away were they from the school? Was it going to be possible to make it back in time?
After what seemed like an hour, but wasnt, Navraj stopped in a small square with a beautiful fountain in the middle of it. Crystal-clear water sshed from the top of the fountain, its echo creating an ambiance within the courtyard that made confidential conversation possible.
Alright, Navraj said. This is a different kind of meeting than the others. The kind with real members of our order. Ive already vouched for you. Stay in line, alright? Dont do anything to embarrass me.
Wed never, Navraj, Katayoun said.
I know.
Navraj took a step toward a nearby alleyway. Then he stopped. By the way, they have a disc that you need to swear loyalty on. I dont know how it works, but they im it was created by a Hasasu Archon. Probably an exaggeration, but you never know. The point is, answer their questions truthfully, swear loyalty, and youll be fine.
Xerxes heart leapt into his throat, and he nced over to see Katayoun looking sick. Their eyes met, and then she wiped the expression from her face, grabbed his hand, and dragged him to follow Navraj.
Now that they were both High Seers, they couldmunicate mentally without having to lean their heads together.
A Hasasu Archon? he projected. That could be bad. Really bad.
It depends. If the spell formation is based on irvoyance, we should be fine, as it only reads emotions. Just stay calm, and it wont matter.
But the third Hasasu spell line is about reading thoughts!
I know. She remained silent for a moment. If the formation is based on Minor Construation or worse, Major Construation, then we could be in big trouble. But aborting the mission right now would be worse, right?
Yeah.
Spell formations were simply physical objects into which a spell was permanently imbued. They were extremely expensive to produce, and thus, very rare. Whatever the cost of casting a spell, including theponents, the cost of creating a spell formation out of it would be a hundreds of times more. Sometimes thousands. That wasnt to mention the time involved.
Regardless, if the cultists had a spell formation from the Hasasu order, which specialized in mind-reading, then it could be extremely problematic.
Xerxes hardly paid attention as they wound their way through a few more intersections before stopping in front of a walled manor. Navraj looked up and down the street, then knocked in a prescribed fashion.
There was a brief dialogue including an exchange of passwords, and then they were inside.
As the door closed behind them, they were led through an outer courtyard, through two hallways, and into an inner chamber. Chairs were lined up, and there was a dais against the wall. Seated next to a lectern there was a hooded figure.
Next to the door was a table, behind which was another servant.
Put your right hand there, and answer truthfully, the servant said, gesturing at a round stone disk on the table. It was about a cubit in diameter, and was covered in unusual carved symbols iid with gold. In the middle was a palm-shaped area that was nk.
Navraj put his hand on the disc.
Are you a traitor, mole, agent, or spy? the servant asked.
No, Navraj said. The golden symbols on the disc glowed briefly.
The servant looked at the hooded man, who nodded slightly.
Have a seat, the servant said. Now, you.
He was looking at Katayoun. She put her hand on the disc, and he asked the same questions. She answered the same as Navraj. A different set of symbols glowed. What did that mean?
The hooded man nodded.
Next, it was Xerxes turn. The process was the same. Yet another set of symbols glowed. He didnt like that. But at the moment, there wasnt anything he could do about it.
After it was over, and there didnt seem to be any reaction from the servant or the hooded figure, he suppressed the urge to sigh with relief. Navraj sat in the back row. Katayoun picked a chair next to him, and Xerxes sat next to her. So far, they were the only ones present.
Over the course of the next ten minutes, more figures arrived, most of them wearing cloaks or hats that obscured their faces.
Thats everyone, the servant said.
The hooded man got to his feet. Good. Take the Truth Disc away, and lock the doors.
Xerxes ears pricked up when he heard that. Lock the doors?
Then the hooded man took a step forward. Before we begin, I have a question for someone in the audience. You, Navraj.
Er, yes? Navraj said.
Why did you bring two traitors to this meeting?
Chapter 52: The Conclusion of the Mission (1)
Chapter 52: The Conclusion of the Mission (1)
Xerxes reached toward hisponent pouch.
Dont be stupid, the hooded figure said.
Meanwhile, the other people in the chairs were on their feet and backing away from Katayoun and Xerxes.
We dont want any trouble, Xerxes said, keeping his hand resting right on top of the pouch. He shifted his stance so his right shoulder faced the masked figure, and hisponent pouch, and left hand, faced away. Next to him, he could see Katayoun also angling herself so her shoulders formed a triangle with his.
You think two Seers are a match for an Archon? the masked man said, pulling his cloak away from his hip and resting his hand on a pouch at his waist. If so, youll soon find out how wrong you are.
Theyre not spies, Navraj said. They saved my life. I know theyre from the Institute. We recruit from there all
Whether saving your life was nned or not, the hooded man said, it had the intended effect. It won your trust.
B-but, but they
Quiet.
Hes an archon? Katayoun projected.
If he was, then his mage sight would pick up on our thought projections.
The masked man didnt react in any way to their conversation. There was no way he was an Archon. Hes lying. Hes a High Mystic at most.
Seems a safe bet. Also, he thinks were Seers. He doesnt know how strong we really are.
Youre right, were spies, Xerxes said.
Off to the side, Navraj sputtered.
Unfortunately for us, Xerxes continued, we havent figured out anything worth knowing. So how about you just let us leave? You disappear. We go back with our tails between our legs. Everybody wins. There was no way the cultists would take him up on his offer, but he needed to buy time. His eyes flitted back and forth as he reassessed the room.
Besides, Katayoun said, if we go missing, all hell will break loose. We have a lot of connections at the Institute.
The manughed. Sadly, I have no idea what confidential information Navraj might have revealed to you in his idiocy. And until I know for sure, youre not going anywhere. Slowly untie yourponent pouches and drop them to the ground in front of you. Then submit to my guards. Men! He snapped, and a thug d in bits of random armor appeared.
Get the others, the hooded man said. And bring steel manacles.
Manacles? the thug said. Er, do we have
Of course we have them. In the fourth storage room. Hurry up.
What kind of mage is he? Looking at theponent pouch tied to his belt, it seemed possible to rule out Buhhu. Buhhu spells used Abhorrent blood as the primary baseponent, which led to Buhhu mages using distinctive types of pouches. In fact, as Xerxes had learned at the Institute, many Buhhu mages didnt use pouches at all, but rather, cases or boxes. For example, Gandy now had a burnished copper case. Unfortunately, all other orders of magic relied on sand, powder, or dust as the baseponent.
Was there a smear of powder along the top, as was often seen on the pouches of Asgagu mages? No. Grains of sand in the folds of fabric that would hint at either Nasaru healer or Btu defense expert? No. A tiny glitter of gold that would reveal the man to be a Sinitu shapeshifter? No.
There were no clues. No hints.
What was telling, though, was that the man only had a single pouch. Each unique spell required a differentponent, which meant that higher-level mages often carried more than one receptacle forponents. It wasnt a guarantee, but it indicated that the man either couldnt or didnt feel the need to be prepared to cast more than one spell.
The hooded man took a step forward. Let me be clear. I dont want to hurt you, much less kill you. But I do need you to tell me some things. For instance, who put you up to this? Whos behind this investigation? Adonia? Shabadras? Kingallu himself?
Now he''s trying to buy time, Katayoun projected.
I know. I think we need to do something before the guardse back.
Agreed.
Youremunicating mentally, the man snarled. He took a step forward to the edge of the dais. He was at the edge of the dais. Stop. Immediately.
Or what? Xerxes said, sliding his lead foot forward a bit and shifting his weight slightly. You want to fight? Because Im an Asgagu mage. I love fighting.
The man pulled his pouchs drawstring, then stuck his finger in to loosen the opening. This is yourst warning. Dont push me!
When he pulled his fingers back out, Xerxes spotted a granr substance on the tip of his finger. Not gold dust. Not diamond powder. Not talcum powder. It was sand. And that meant this man was either a Btu mage or Nasaru. If it was thetter, Nasaru, then the man could defend himself against any attack Xerxes threw. But his spells wouldnt give him much of an advantage in offense. If it was the former, then he could conceivably cast spells like Slow Death, Rapid Death, or Instant Death, depending on his level.
But at least Xerxes had an idea of what he was up against.
He opened hisponent pouch.
The hooded man yelled, jumped off the dais, and lunged toward Xerxes.
Xerxes pulled out a handful of crabnickel powder and jabbed his finger into it.
Youre dead! the hooded man shouted, kicking aside a chair and pulling out a knife.
Katayouns foot caught himpletely unprepared as she delivered a roundhouse kick to his abdomen.
He grunted and copsed. As chairs ttered, his hood fell back to reveal a sallow face with a patchy beard.
Kill them! he shrieked, scrambling backward like a crab. But Katayoun had a handful of powder and was tracing a rune as she took a step toward him.
Shes casting a Death spell, Xerxes thought.
Others in the room took action. One person pulled out aponent pouch, two others drew short bronze swords.
Chapter 52: The Conclusion of the Mission (2)
Chapter 52: The Conclusion of the Mission (2)
Xerxes finished casting Singr Lethality. He clenched his hand into a burning fist, spun in ce andunched a blow at the nearest cultist. He hit the persons shoulder, causing the stench of charred flesh to expand as the person howled and fell.
Katayouns hand, emanating a gray light, hit the so-called Archon. She jumped backward.
Xerxes swung his fist at another cultist, but they dodged the blow, only to take a kick from Katayoun. The cultists legs flew out and they mmed into the ground.
Xerxis held his fists up to protect his head as he assessed the room and tried to pick another target. The guards were back. The first ran into the room with a bronze shortsword already drawn. The one behind him two metal contraptions designed to restrain mages. A third followed, spear in hand.
Katyoun reached Xerxes side. We should get out of here.
Right. Go.
The thick wooden door was locked. But with superior High Seer strength plus Singr Lethality, Xerxes was able to smash it in seconds. They rushed back through the building the way theyde in, and no one got in their way.
Shouts came from behind as cultists and soldiers ran after them.
The outer door was locked as well. Xerxes destroyed it.
Out in the open, they panted as they backed away from the manor entrance.
What now? Katayoun said.
Xerxes looked down as the brightness of his spell faded. He looked back up. We run.
He grabbed her hand and pulled her down the street.
It was a residential neighborhood, so it wasnt as crowded as thebyrinthine bazaar. At the end of the block, Xerxes looked over his shoulder, wondering if he would see the hooded man chasing them with dozens of soldiers at his back. Or worse, a horde of Abhorrent.
There was nothing.
They ran through a few intersections, picking random directions. The entire time, there was no sign of pursuit.
Finally, Xerxes spotted a restaurant on a corner. In there, he said.
They ducked inside and jumped into a booth, where they both leaned back and panted.
A waiter approached. Uh.
Xerxes waved his hand dismissively. Dont ask. Could you bring us some water? And something to eat. Anything. As long as its cheap.
The waiter disappeared.
A minute or twoter, Xerxes thumped his fist on the table. We fucked up, he said. No. You didnt fuck up. I did.
Were alive, Katayoun said. Im happy with that oue. Plus I hit that bastard with Slow Death. Unless hes a Btu Mystic, or they have one nearby, hell be dead within ten minutes.
Yeah, that was a good shot. But Shabadras is going to be pissed. We screwed up the entire operation.
Is it really our fault? Why didnt he warn us they might have something like that spell formation?
Maybe he didnt know.
True. Well, that bastard I hit was supposedly important, and we saw his face. Maybe thatll help.
He bit his lip. He did have a weirdplexion. What about the supplies we were supposed to get for your friend?
Ill think of something.
The waiter brought their order, but they didnt eat. They drank the water, packed the food, then hurried back to the school. Once on campus, Katayoun went to a rear garden where there was a loose vase they could use as a signal. She turned the vase to the correct angle to send a message to Shabadras. After that, they had no choice but to return to ss.
The Swordmasters pressed him for details about why hed disappeared for the afternoon. He exined about the shopping trip but they didnt believe him. He refused to give any further information, even when Enusat started making crude jokes.
It didnt take long the following day to refill his chambers of energy. He had lunch with Katayoun.
Did Shabadras contact you? she asked when they sat down at a table against the wall.
No. You either?
She shook her head.
When they finished eating, they agreed to meet first thing in the morning to go to the bazaar, where they would wander around until Shabadras made contact.
The rest of the day was torturous. His mood turned foul, to the point where he almost got into a yelling match with Enusat over a sword stance. Eventually, Kashtiliash threw an arm around his shoulders and walked him back toward the dorm room.
I think you need to cool down, the bearded mage said.
Yeah.
In the morning, he found Katayoun, they ate breakfast, then left the campus.
The idea of wandering the bazaar for hours until Shabadras showed up was depressing. Thankfully, he found them almost immediately. A few minutester, they were in a secure location in the back of a tentmakers shop.
Good news? Shabadras said, slipping his mask off to reveal a smile.
Not quite, Xerxes replied.
Shabadras smile faded a bit.
Xerxes told the story, being careful not to embellish or exaggerate anything, but at the same time, emphasizing how every step of the way, theyd done the best they could. Katayoun interjected details here and there, and they always seemed to enhance the story.
However, when they got to the part about the spell formation, Shabadras smile disappeared. Xerxes tried to very carefully insert a thought implying that someone should have warned them about the possibility of the stone disc. But Shabadrasck of expression made it hard to tell if the message had gotten through. He didnt react at all to the revtion of the hooded mans face, nor of Xerxes description of the dramatic fight, their escape, and the flight through the streets.
So we came back to the school as soon as we could, Xerxes concluded.
Shabadras closed his eyes and lifted his hand up to rub his jaw. A minute passed. Two minutes.
Katayoun looked at Xerxes. Her normal smile was marred by tension in her jaws, and her brow was furrowed.
Shabadras opened his eyes. Im d both of you got out alive. Whoever the hooded man was, he was ipetent. Given your description, I agree that he was most likely a Seer of the Nasaru order. Had he been an Archon, or a Mystic or higher from an order such as Asgagu or Sinitu, you two would have lost your life. Or perhaps been captured. Its a moot point now, as hes most likely dead.
Xerxes cleared his throat. The description will help you figure out who he is, though. Right? Maybe you can use that to extrapte
No. A jaundicedplexion? Patchy beard? Shabadras shrugged. It was probably a disguise. Ill pass word along, but Im sorry, High Seer Xerxes, this doesnte close to what we were hoping from you.
Sir, Katayoun said, we did kill several cultists. Surely thats noteworthy.
Not particrly, Shabadras said. He stood. Again, its the leaders were interested in.
Xerxes wasnt ready to give up. Archon, when you mentioned the officer position, you said
Shabadras held up a hand to cut him off. I promised you the possibility of a promotion if you uncovered the identity of a high-level member of the cult. You failed in that. Im truly sorry. Again, Im d you both came out of the incident unharmed. And to be honest, I think you did the best you could in the circumstances. Who could have guessed that they would use a Truth Disc at a meeting like this one? It would have caught even me by surprise.
But in the end, the results speak for themselves. The mission was a failure. There are no hard feelings here, and I value your service.
Sir, Katayoun said, what about the ces where we went to meetings? Including thest one. Shouldnt you investigate them?
Theres no point. The cult acts fast when locations arepromised. Theyll be, at the very least, abandoned. In other instances, theyll torch them.
The Archon slipped his mask back on and pulled his hood up.
This entire operation was off the books, so I cant give you any other special reward. At least, not officially. You did put your lives on the line, so Ill figure out a way to slip you somepensation. And who knows, perhaps another opportunity will arise to prove yourselves. In the meantime, focus on your studies. By the way, regarding the rumors you asked aboutst time I have an update. Youll be shipping out soon. Be ready.
Chapter 53: A Heart-To-Heart (1)
Chapter 53: A Heart-To-Heart (1)
Shabadras had them leave through a back entrance. Afterward, they wandered the bazaar a bit before finding themselves back at the coffee shop where theyd first met up to start the mission.
Inside, Katayoun ordered coffee and Xerxes got an herbal tea.
They sat in silence for a few minutes.
Hes right, Katayoun said. Were alive. Unhurt. Thats what matters.
I know. He cupped his tea in both hands. But I really thought this mission would get me an officermission. Fuck.
She nodded. Sipped her coffee. Why do you care?
He looked up from the tea. Huh?
She repeated the question. Why do you care? What does it matter if youre an officer?
He wasnt sure how to answer. Well, why wouldnt I want to be one? Theyre the top people in the ss. Everybody looks up to them. Look at Gandy. We grew up together, and I always beat him at everything. Well, not tests. At least not all the time. But in martial arts and whatnot. Ive always been better than him. But now he might as well be a celebrity, and Im just I dont know, one of the crowd.
So?
He leaned back, his forehead scrunching up. I mean. Its important to me. Dont you care about that?
She put her hand on his wrist. Of course. Im just asking you why you care so much. So what if you dont be an officer? Only a few people made it.
Dont tell me you didnt at least think about being selected.
Not really.
He took his hand off of the tea mug to slip his fingers around hers. Are you serious?
Yeah. My testing went great. Im confident I got every answer correct. And thebat and spellcasting werent bad. But in my interview, I outright told them I didnt want to be an officer.
What? But why?
Because I dont want to be an officer. Xerxes, have you forgotten that we were conscripted? They didnt ask if we wanted toe here. They made use.
Who wouldnt want toe to a college in Sin-Amuhhu?
Me.
He opened his mouth to reply, but no words came out. What was he supposed to say?
She squeezed his hand. We can talk about it another time. I just want to make sure youre okay. I can tell that youre upset. Is this really about you bing an officer? Or is more to do with with Gandash?
He shook his head and sighed. I dont know. Maybe.
Did you ever apologize to him like I suggested?
I never found the right moment. Its just I feel like its not fair. Hes always had everything go perfectly for him. Hes smart. Rich. Then we get here and he instantly gets promoted. Its like nothing bad ever happens to him, and he gets the best of everything.
Why dont you just talk to him?
About what?
Tell him how you feel. Did you ever do that?
Of course! We talk all the time. Or at least, we did. Back home. As he thought about it, he realized he hadnt spoken much to Gandash since Mannemid. Never once had they conversed about the chaotic events preceding their departure.
Maybe its time to have another talk, Katayoun said, again squeezing his hand. Youve been spending all your time with the Swordmasters. I mean, I know youve had to split time with me. But thest thing you want is to lose your childhood friend because you found some new friends to y swords with.
Thats true.
After that, the conversation drifted to less dramatic topics. Later, they strolled through the bazaar a bit before heading back toward the school. Around the corner from the main gate, she grabbed his shirt and pulled him toward her. She backed up until she was against the outer wall of the school, and then she slipped her hands around his waist.
Maybe we screwed up the mission, she said, but we did it together. And we survived. I wonder if it means that we were meant for each other. She was looking into his eyes right then, and her gaze pierced his soul.
We are meant for each other, he said. I knew it from the beginning.
Me too.
She pulled him closer, so they were leaning against each other. Then, before he knew what was happening, she pulled his head down and kissed him. She smelled like oranges and strawberries.
A bolt of lightning ran from his lips to the depths of his belly. His head swam. His hands fumbled as he tried to wrap them around her. She pushed her hips away from the wall, and then he was holding the small of her back. He pulled her closer.
Then she pushed him away.
Hey he said, leaning his head forward.
Sheughed, leaned in for another kiss, then grabbed his hand and pulled him toward the gate. It was over too soon.
Before he knew it, they were inside. She turned toward the girl dorms. See you tomorrow, she said. She walked to the door, turned, and looked at him. Her eyes and her smile were perfect. She held his gaze for a moment, then disappeared inside.
Did that really just happen? He walked back to his dorm room thinking about her lips, and the feeling of her waist. It made his heart pound.
Es back, Enusat said when he entered the dorm room, but Xerxes hardly noticed the words.
Youve been gone all day, Jad said. What the hell were you up to? Were you hey. Xerk. Xerk! Are you listening to us?
He climbed thedder andy on his bunk.
The three other mages devolved into jabbering. After what seemed like a few hours, but was just a few minutes, Xerxes blinked.
Hey guys, he said, leaning over the edge of the bunk.
Oh, youre talking to us again? Enusat said.
Sorry, I was distracted. Look, I got news. Were shipping out soon. Real soon.
How do you know? Kashtiliash asked.
Confidential, Xerxes answered. I cant tell any more details. Seriously. So dont ask. But its soon.
I thought they wanted all of us to be High Seers before they deployed us, Jad said.
I know. Youd better try to focus. I think they might send us out whether weve broken through or not.
Fuck, Jad said.
Chapter 53: A Heart-To-Heart (2)
Chapter 53: A Heart-To-Heart (2)
The following day at ss, Xerxes felt like a weight had been lifted off him. Granted, hed failed in his attempt to get promoted. But at least he didnt have to worry about the cult meetings anymore. What was more, given that hed achieved his breakthrough, he could now focus on rune study.
Thanks to the immense asset that was the book Rabya had gifted him, he had already reached the point where he could practice the Asgagu Sebum rune using paper and ink. That was the most expensive part of learning a spell, and he was careful to use his supplies wisely.
On Secondday, Jad achieved his breakthrough. Kashtiliash followed on Thirdday.
On Fifthday, Rabya held true to her promise and took them to her favorite sword shop. There, Xerxes spent more money in one ce than hed ever spent in his entire life. He didnt buy the most expensive sword therethat would have been impossible, even if theyd allowed him to buy it on credit. But he got something that put his old sword to shame.
None of the other members of the Swordmasters bought new weapons. However, all of them bought the fancy kind of sheath that Xerxes had first seen used by Purattu. It secured therge sword to the back, but at the same time, allowed it to be drawn easily. He paid extra for a variation designed for Asgagu High Seers, which facilitated easy casting of Minor Augmentation.
The announcement came on Sixthday during the morning assembly.
This will be yourst week at the school, High Archon Kingallu said. Abhorrent activities have surged, and we need mages on the ground in various starisles. Those of you who havent reached the High Seer level would do well to work as hard as you can toward that goal. Once you leave these walls, you wont have the spell formations. Or the time. Because of this, well be opening more slots for spell formation usage. Only for Seers. Any whove reached the High Seer level should focus on rune study or other training.
During the assembly, Xerxes looked over to the spot where the officers lined up. He saw Gandash there, d in his special officer robes, chatting with some of his fellow officers.
After the prayer was over, Xerxes took a deep breath and walked over. He arrived just as Gandash was taking his leave from his friends.
Hey, Gandy, he said.
Gandash looked over in surprise. Oh. Xerk. Hey.
I think we should talk, Xerxes said.
About what?
Just stuff. Theyre going to send us out, and for all we know we might not see each other again for a long time.
Thats true.
I did some things. Said some things. I dont know, I I just want to talk. Like old times.
Gandash smiled. Sure. Now that you mention it, I have some things I ought to get off my chest. Tomorrows Restday. How about then?
Okay. Meet at the gate before lunch?
How about dinner instead? I have a bunch of things to do in the morning.
Sure. See you then.
Sounds good.
Xerxes wasnt sure what he would say to Gandash. And he could only imagine what Gandash wanted to get off his chest. But just having agreed to talk to him made him feel better.
The next day, he spent time studying in the morning, then did sword training with the Swordmasters for about three hours. All of them had vastly improved in their dueling skills. Xerxes and Kashtiliash were now about even in terms of who came out on top when they faced off.
After cleaning up, he headed to the gate to wait for Gandash. He made sure to fill his pouch with a few extra shekels just in case.
His friend showed up only a few minutester.
Do you know thatmb ce to the north? Gandash asked. I forget the name, but its run by a guy named Tomer.
Xerxes knew the ce. Ive heard of it. Its a bit pricey, isnt it?
My treat, Gandash said.
Xerxes jaw tightened. Its fine. No need.
If you say so.
On most asions when he and Katayoun ate together, or even when he went out to eat neverending meat with the Swordmasters, they rarely went anywhere that charged more than about twenty to thirty minas. This ced charged an even shekel. Granted, they could eat as much as they wanted. But at a price quadruple what he was used to, it was grimace-inducing. It was a good thing hede ready to spend money, so he paid and followed Gandash inside.
The pitcher of ale came before the meat did. Gandash poured, then raised his tankard.
To the Mannemid boys, he said.
Xerxes grinned. Starting on an empty stomach? Officer training has toughened you up. To us.
They drank.
Then the meat came and they ate.
At first, they talked about trivial matters. Gandash told him about some of the sses hed been taking, everything from advanced cavalry tactics to boring things like supply lines. Xerxes talked about Mystic Rabya and her longsword sses, and how much hed learned about the Epitome.
When they finished the first pitcher of ale, Xerxes noticed that Gandash was talking a bit louder than before. Maybe he hadnt developed a bit more of a tolerance for alcohol in the recent months.
Hey, why dont we take it easy on the ale? Xerxes said.
Nah. This could be ourst meal together for a long time. Lets make it memorable. Raising his voice much louder than was necessary, he yelled, Waiter. Another pitcher!
They continued to drink and eat.
Is he trying to get drunk? Maybe to impress me, or show me up?
A few minutester, Gandash said, What did you want to talk about?
Xerxes leaned back as the waiter deposited another tray of meat in front of them. Nothing really. Just I feel like we havent had any time together for a while.
Well, thats true. I mean, you do have your new best friends.
Xerxes brow furrowed. What?
Its fine, I get it. I was sucked into the boring officer training, so what else are you going to do? Its not like I me you for it.
Gandy, youre reading too much into this. Jad, Kash, Enusat. Tuecer. Theyre friends, for sure. But I didnt grow up with them like you. You and I are best friends.
Are we? We hardly even see each other anymore.
Xerxes sighed. Were seeing each other right now. He lifted his tankard. To best friends.
Gandash frowned but lifted his tankard.
They drank. Ate some more.
Gandy, I never congratted you on climbing the rankings. Everybodys talking about it.
Surprised you had time to notice given your new girlfriend. Gandash stuffed some more meat into his mouth.
Xerxes was working hard to keep his mood from turning ck. It felt like Gandash was trying to provoke him. But why?
I need to distract him like I did that time back on Mannemid.
He opened his mouth to say something, but before he could, Gandash continued, Youre doing it on purpose, arent you?
Doing what?
unting her.
unting? Wait, you mean Kat?
You have a pet name for her now?
Xerxes closed his eyes and took in a deep breath through his nose. Hed wanted to have a nice heart-to-heart with his childhood best friend. But Gandash had always been an angry drunk. Or at least an unstable drunk.
Im not unting her, Gandash. I dont even know what that means. How could I unt her?
I saw you making out with her the other day. I was across the street and you did it on purpose. And youre always holding hands, looking all lovey-dovey. You want me to see you together. To remind me that I dont have a girlfriend anymore. Tell me Im wrong, I dare you.
Xerxes forced himself to remain calm. I didnt see you the other day. That was the first time we kissed. I dont even know how it happened. One minute we were standing there, and then next minute we were kissing. Just like back home when you and
Gandash shot to his feet, knocking down his ale tankard in the process. As ale ran over the edges of the table, Gandash jabbed his finger in Xerxes direction. Dont say it. Dont you dare say her name.
Xerxes stood. The restaurant had grown quiet, and the patrons were all looking at them. Everything clicked just then.
I wasnt going to say to say her. The words died in Xerxes mouth. He had been about to say Bels name, simply because the randomness of his first kiss with Kat had resembled that first kiss between Bel and Gandash.
You were going to say it, Gandash said, his jaw jutting out. His eyes glistened.
Gandy, Xerxes said, lowering his voice. Just calm down. This is getting out of control. He extended his hands, palms down, in his friends direction.
Im tired of this, Xerk, Gandash said, bunching his hands into fists. Everythings gone bad for me in life, while youre living it up. Brand new friends. Brand new girlfriend. Everything going your way, and you sit off to the sideughing at me. Youre the only one who knows the story of me wetting my pants in the library. Whyd you spread that story, huh? You wanted to embarrass me?
Some of the patrons murmured, and the owner of the restaurant was walking in their direction.
Gandy, sit down, he said. Lets talk this out.
He reached out, intending to put his hand on Gandashs forearm and pull him back down into a sitting position. In response, Gandash blurted, Back off, jerked his hand away, then shoved Xerxes.
He nearly toppled backward.
Hey, he said. Thats enough! He managed to grab Gandashs his wrist.
His friend pulled in the opposite direction, forcing Xerxes to lean forward. Then Gandash tried to punch him.
The blow was wild and easy to dodge. While Gandash was still overextended, Xerxes clenched his own hand into a fist and punched him in the stomach. Hard.
His friend doubled over.
Stepping out from behind the table, Xerxes said, Enough, Gandy. Youre drunk. We need
Gandash let out a shout and threw another wild haymaker. Xerxes leaned back and hit him right across the side of the face.
Gandash grunted and half-spun half-fell onto the table. Meat, dishes, and cutlery flew in all directions.
Xerxes took a step forward, but when he saw that Gandash was just lying there breathing heavily, he backed up.
Looking around at the shocked patrons and staff, he found the manager and walked over. Sorry, he said. He dug out a shekel. Will this cover the inconvenience?
Of course, the manager said, smiling woodenly. What about your friend?
Helle around soon. Maybe have someone escort him back to the Institute.
Will do, Sir Mage.
Thanks.
Leaving Gandash behind, Xerxes stalked back to the school.
Chapter 54: New Arrangements (1)
Chapter 54: New Arrangements (1)
Xerxes mmed the dorm room door behind him, startling Kashtiliash, Jad, and Enusat.
What the ell? Enusat said.
I finally had it, Xerxes said, flopping down into the chair of his study desk.
Gandash? Kashtiliash asked.
Yeah. He doesnt handle his alcohol well. Said some things. So Iid him out.
Jad, whod been rxing with his hands behind his head on the bottom bunk, swung his feet around and sat up. Hold on. What do you meanid him out?
Xerxes hit the desk with his fist, causing everything on it to jump into the air, then thump back down. In the end, it was a clean right hook. Knocked him down and he didnt get up.
Enusat let loose a slow whistle. Damn. Xerk, not pulling any punches. Literally.
Kashtiliash was still lying on the opposite bottom bunk. Youre serious?
Yeah, Xerxes said. I hit him in the belly first, but he just kepting at me.
Silence. Xerxes looked around to see his friends exchanging disbelieving nces.
Im not exaggerating, Xerxes said. Im just done with it all. I get that his girlfriend died, and thats horrible and all. But that doesnt give him a right to throw lies in my face.
Wait, his girlfriend died? Jad said.
Xerxes nodded. In the Abhorrent invasion. The three of us were on well, a training mission basically. A juvenile ambushed us, and Bel died. I was there. He closed his eyes and forced away the memory of Bel screaming as she fell to her death. She was my friend too. And my main sparring partner. So I dont like thinking about it, much less talking about it.
Another silence prevailed, this one longer. Xerxes kept his eyes closed and tried to steady his breathing.
Whered you hit him? Jad asked.
Xerxes opened his eyes. What?
You said a right hook. But whered itnd?
Xerxes thought. About here, he said, putting his hand up near his cheek.
Jad exhaled. Fuck.
What? Xerxes said. Why does it matter where I hit him?
Because its a rules vition to strike an officer.
It is?
Yes, Kashtiliash said. A big one.
Yeah, said Enusat. Dont you remember my prank with the ster? If it wasnt for that rule, my payback on Randy Gandy would ave been a lot more painful. Striking an officer is bad news. If he reports you.
If he reports me? Then what?
Jad lifted his shoulders in a shrug. Depends. A disciplinarymittee at the least. Demotion isnt really an option since none of us have official ranks. Technically, expulsion is one of the possibilities.
Hes a High Seer, Xerxes said, theres no way a little punch is going to leave a mark. How would anybody know?
Witnesses, Kashtiliash said. There were other people there, right?
Xerxes heart dropped.
Besides, youre a High Seer, Jad said. Rabya had a whole lecture on what kind of damage High Seers can take, and how the Btu mages are supposed to deal with that stuff. Remember? Bruises arent worth wasting mm, she said. What if you gave him a ck eye?
Dammit, Xerxes said.
They continued to talk, and nothing the others said was anyfort to Xerxes. As the alcohol slowly left his system, and he cooled down further, regrets piled up.
I should have just walked away.
He began second-guessing himself, wondering if suggesting the meetup had been even the shadow of a good idea. Should he have groveled to Gandash?
Then he considered the ramifications. What if he got kicked out of the Institute, and sent back down to Mannemid? How would he keep in touch with Katayoun?
He wouldnt. It would be the end of their rtionship.
If the two of them received different assignments, and were deployed to different starisles, at least they would both still be members of the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces. But if he got kicked out, that would be the end.
It woulde down to Gandash. Would Gandash report the matter?
Were best friends, he thought. He said it himself. Or was I the one who said that?
He tossed and turned long past when the other Swordmasters fell asleep.
The next morning, more details came.
Well be deploying all of you at the end of the week, High Archon Kingallu said, provoking a buzz of reaction among the assembled students. This morning, the officers will receive their assignments. The rest of you will learn further details from your primary teacher. Make the best of your final week here. Everyone is being deployed to different locations, with different missions. All of the missions are important. Furthermore
He went on like usual, but Xerxes only half-paid attention, as the speech didnt contain any concrete details about the assignments.
Katayoun found Xerxes after the assembly adjourned, and they held hands as they walked to the ssroom.
What happens if they separate us? she asked.
I thought about that, he said. Even if it happens, well keep in touch. And well be back together soon, Im sure. They wont just send us away forever.
The tension in the ssroom was palpable. There wasnt any of the usual banter as they waited for Mystic Rabya to appear.
When she arrived, she looked around and said, Getting nervous already? Id say thats normal. She put down her teaching materials and sword, then leaned against the desk. As you can imagine, theres good news and theres bad news. Ill start with the good. ck Jackal ssroom is staying together.
Xerxes breathed a sigh of relief, and he felt Katyoun squeezing his arm. He put his hand on her fingers and squeezed back. Had Gandash reported their brawl, and now Xerxes was to be hauled in front of amittee and expelled?
Okay, whats the bad news, Mystic Rabya? asked Atra-Hasis, the auburn-skinned Nasaru mage. That if we havent made High Seer we get kicked out?
Only about half of the members of the ss had achieved their goal and reached the High Seer level. In addition to the Xerxes, Jad, Enusat, and Kashtiliash, that number included: Katayoun; the short-haired mages Arwia and Kuri; and Dasi from Sin-Masu, with her numerous piercings. All the other members of the ss were still Seers.
The lower-level mages included Teucer, who was the fifth member of the Humusi Swordmasters, along with his friend Laxu. Ningsummunu, a friend of Dasi from Sin-Masu, who also had many piercings. Droopy-jowled Tizqar, stick-thin Ningal, Kishar from Dumusi, and Atra-Hasis, who had just asked the question.
Mystic Rabya chuckled. No. Everybodys staying. And Ive even arranged for an extra round of Double-Concentrated Mm Pills for those of you who havent formed an extra chamber. Id rmend trying to break through before deployment. Once youre out there in the field, itll be difficult to find the right time and ce.
Im getting kicked out, arent I? Xerxes thought, his fingers tightening on Katayouns hand.
No, the bad news isnt really that bad. Its this: I dont know who yourmanding officer is going to be, nor exactly what your mission is. Id hoped to give you some insights before the news gets broken, but sadly, I cant.
There was a short silence.
Thats it? Dasi asked.
Rabya nodded. See? Not so bad after all.
Xerxes exhaled softly. Although, it didnt confirm that he was off the hook.
I dont even think that counts as bad news, Tuecer said, provoking a few chuckles.
Perhaps not, Rabya said. In ce of this afternoons practical training, well be meeting your newmanding officer. She or he will provide some basic details of the mission, then do some very high-level evaluations. Starting tomorrow, all the practical training will be led by the officer, with a focus on aspects relevant to the mission. Any questions?
Katayoun raised her hand.
Yes, High Seer?
Mystic Rabya, Katayoun said, you must have at least some idea of what kind of missions were being sent on. Cant you give us a clue?
Chapter 54: New Arrangements (2)
Chapter 54: New Arrangements (2)
Rabyas lips twitched, and she stood there for a moment with her arms crossed. Ive heard a few things. Based on my guess, most groups are going to be deployed to starisles with increased Abhorrent activity. But it seems there are a few other missions being handed out that dont involve Abhorrent. So its really impossible to say. Just remain patient. Youll know within a few hours.
Rabya then exined a ss assignment rting tobat strategies for massive Abhorrent. It wasnt their first time discussing such a subject, but the assignment was different from anything theyd done before. Rabya had a stack of wax tablets that she passed out.
I want you to write a description of an imaginary Abhorrent. A stage six juvenile. Include a physical description and two magical powers. Keep it all within the bounds of what seems reasonable.
From our imagination? Laxu asked. Why?
Yes. The reason is simple; however much we know about the Abhorrent, theres more that we dont know. We have no idea what kind of monsters you might face, and being able to deal with the unknown is going to be important. As youll probably remember from some of the text we read in earlier sses, there have been numerous instances, even in recent years, of Buhhu mages summoning new and unusual Abhorrent.
Each student contrived a fake Abhorrent, then switched with another student and came up withbat strategies. Generally, they boiled down to three options: mages backed up by Unsighted troops. Mages fighting with other mages. And mages fighting solo. Each had their overall advantages and disadvantages.
It was an interesting exercise, but Xerxes had a hard time focusing.
It seemed unthinkable that Gandash would do something so drastic as get him kicked out of the institute. Then again, the two of them had never been involved in a physical sh. In fact, back on Mannemid, theyd rarely even disagreed with each other. Who knew how Gandash would feel after he sobered up, especially if he had marks on him? What if the school demanded he tell them what happened?
The morning dragged on. Lunch was boring.
Then they regathered for the afternoon training.
Did I ever tell the story of the first time I cast a spell in realbat? Rabya asked. No? Well, it was in one of the Ku-Aya starisles, Lira to be specific. We were up against a warlord who.
Xerxes tuned out the story and lost himself in thought.
His reflections were interrupted by a knock on the door.
Xerxes looked up.
Here we go, Rabya said. Prepare to meet yourmanding officer. She raised her voice. Come in.
The door swung open and Gandash entered.
Fucking ell, Enusat muttered, quietly enough that Rabya didnt hear him.
I should have known, Xerxes thought.
Gandash was decked out in his officers uniform. His headgear was white and cylindrical, but unlike ordinary mage hats it had two golden horns that curved from the back and came to a point near his forehead. Higher-ranking officers would have additional horns. His outer robe was deep blue, and he had a red sash draped from shoulder to hip. Of course, the garment had golden fringe, embedded jewels, and other outerments. He had leather boots with bronze strips that went up to his knees, and numerous bits of jewelry.
Xerxes couldnt deny that he looked impressive.
But what drew the most attention was the swelling and redness around his left eye, and the way the skin was starting to turn dark.
It took effort for Xerxes not to flinch.
Gandash looked over the group, his eyes sliding past Xerxes without stopping.
Good afternoon, he said.
Greetings, Captain Gandash, Rabya said. I suspected you might be chosen to lead ck Jackal, but I didnt want to say something and get hopes up prematurely. Her eyes flickered to Xerxes, and if she noted theplex expression on his face, she didnt give any indication of it.
I was surprised and delighted when I saw mymission, Gandash said, closing the door behind him.
Would you like the lectern? Rabya said.
Yes, please. His jewelry and other outerments clinked as he stepped over.
Meanwhile, Rabya moved to the one empty seat in the ssroom and sat down. Ill stay for a bit, if you dont mind. Im curious what my students are going to be up to.
Of course. Gandash stood at the lectern and sped his hands behind his back. Id like to start out by letting you know we arent being sent to fight any Abhorrent.
He waited as if expecting to hear either sighs of relief or mutterings ofint. When no one said anything, he continued, Theres some good news, specifically for High Seers Jad and Enusat. Well be heading to one of the Humusi starisles, Jehannemid. Congrattions on getting a quick trip home.
Hunh, Jad said.
Gandash gave him a tight smile. Yes. I cant guarantee therell be time for reunions with family and friends, but its possible. Ill give some more detailster, but the long story short is that theres been some major political unrest on Jehannemid. Were being sent to escort a member of the nobility from a rather distant city back to the Gatewayplex. There will be potential bandit infestations, rebel troops, possibly even rogue mages. Though this isnt Abhorrent-rted, its highly likely well be inbat situations.
Enusat muttered something that Xerxes couldnt make out. Gandash ignored him.
Youre all being given the rank of lieutenant. And youll be paired with a group of ten Unsighted soldiers, led by a sergeant. Later on, Ill pick four of you to be promoted to First Lieutenants of either heavy or light infantry, or heavy or light cavalry, primarily to help coordinate with the other mage lieutenants.
Now, I want to make something clear, and this isnt my decision, ites from High Archon Kingallu himself: though you technically outrank the sergeants, you will not be in charge of your units. Youll be attached to your unit, and will fight with them, but the sergeant will be higher than you in the chain ofmand. At least, until I see fit to change that arrangement.
Because our mission is more ordinary in nature than our fellows being sent to fight Abhorrent, and will involve some significant travel, the rest of this weeks afternoon training will focus on some specific tasks rted to horsemanship, battlefield maneuvers, rapid building of fortifications, and the like.
Today, well do some very brief evaluations. Ive already gone through all of your assessments from earlier in the year. Frankly speaking, book knowledge of things like geography and history wont be important. I want to see how much progress youve made in spellcasting, especially on horseback, plusbat maneuvers and simr things. The Institute has provided some pills to make up for any lost mm.
In terms of lectures, Im hoping Mystic Rabya can help me with some mission-specific topics. He looked at her.
Absolutely, Captain Gandash.
Good. We can brainstorm about thatter. Any questions?
No one raised their hand.
Very well. Lets head out to the back fields. I already have a pavilion set up for the evaluation.
Chapter 55: Deployment (1)
Chapter 55: Deployment (1)
I cant believe this fucker is making us do tests, Enusat grumbled as theygged behind the rest of the ss on the way to the back fields. What are we, children?
However, it soon became apparent that their ss wasnt the only involved in practical evaluations. Another ss was already on horseback, two others were getting ready forbat drills with Unsighted troops, and one group was at work on the mockup giant Abhorrent.
The afternoon flew by as Gandash, assisted by Rabya, presided over a host of activities and tests.
During the entire process, Gandash offered minimal input andmentary. He simply gave instructions, watched, and took notes.
When it was all over, and the dinner hour loomed, he said, All of you did amazing. Im very impressed. I have the prerogative of giving a name to our newly formedpany. I think ck Jackal is appropriate. Thank you for letting me be part of a team thats been bonding for months now. I hope I can do a good job leading you in this mission. Now, youre dismissed.
Xerxes wanted to talk to Gandash, but his friend turned to Mystic Rabya and the two quickly fell into a conversation as they strolled back to the school.
He didnt reconnect with Katayoun until the following morning. As they ate breakfast together, Katayoun said, Did you see Gandys ck eye?
Xerxes almost choked on his porridge. Right. That.
Do you know what happened? she asked. Everyones talking about it.
He looked back and forth, then lowered his head. Dont say anything, but it was me.
WHAT? she said, and then mped her hand over her mouth. Lowering her head just like him, she leaned forward and said, What happened?
Remember how I told you I was going to talk with him? Well it didnt go very well. He got drunk and said some things. He kind of attacked me. So I punched him.
Katayoun didnt say anything. He looked up from his porridge to see her lip sightly curled.
She looks disgusted, he thought. I didnt start it, he said. He did. And he tried to hit me. What was I supposed to do?
She looked down into her own porridge. She dipped her spoon in and ate.
What the hell was she acting so dramatic for? Hed killed people in front of her before, then he got into a scuffle with Gandash and she acted like it was the end of the world?
Kat,e on, he said.
Im just disappointed, thats all."
Disappointed? Kat, he attacked me.
She put her spoon down. Xerk. You go on and on about how Gandy isnt a good fighter. How hes a bookworm that studies all the time. How you and your Swordmasters are real men. Thats the picture you paint. So what exactly happened? Did Gandash cast a spell? Try to stab you with a knife? What?
Spluttering a bit, Xerxes said, He he.
She looked at him expectantly.
He pushed me!
He pushed you. She pursed her lips.
And tried to hit me.
He tried to hit you? So he didnt hit you at all. And you gave him a ck eye?
The way she framed her words left Xerxes with little to say. She wasnt wrong. Now more than ever, he wished he had walked away from the argument.
Kat, you should have heard what he said. He talked about you. He said that you and I are out to get him. That were plotting against him.
Plotting? Us, against him? Seriously?
Well, he didnt use those exact words.
Katayouns nostrils red slightly. Shaking her head, she said, Xerxes. Can you just grow up a bit? Please?
She stood.
He half stood. Give me a break here
But she grabbed her tray and walked off.
Kat! he said, but he didnt want to cause a scene in the dining hall, so he just let her go.
Women, he huffed.
**
He didnt find a good chance to talk with Katayoun about their argument, but the following day she slid up to him in the afternoon and intertwined her fingers with his. After that, things went back to normal.
There was never any opporunity to talk to Gandash, despite how much he wanted to. He needed to make things right. But his friend was truly acting the part of an officer. He was always busy, always talking to important people, never avable. Gandashs ck eye developed into a deep purple color whichsted for about two days before it started to fade. Neither Katayoun nor the Swordsmasters breathed a word of what they knew, and rumors hadnt spread from the restaurant. And it seemed Xerxes fears of the school pressing for an investigation were unfounded. Preparations for deployment were so frenzied that the issue seemed forgotten by Thirdday.
That was when Gandash named the First Lieutenants. To Xerxes surprise, he was assigned as First Lieutenant of the heavy infantry units. Jad was attached to the light infantry. Dasi, with her numerous piercings, was assigned to the heavy cavalry, and Kishar was First Lieutnant of the light cavalry. There were six units of heavy infantry, four units of light infantry, three units of heavy cavalry, and two units of light cavalry. Xerxes wasnt really sure what it meant that things were broken down that way, but he felt a spark of pride at being in charge of thergest group of units.
After the appointments, the mages were introduced to the sergeants they would be paired with on the mission.
Xerxes was in Unit One, which was led by a muscr man named Stratos, who had a host of frightening scars on his face and neck. Stratos must once have had a luxuriant head of ck hair. But now he was balding on top, and much of the ck had been reced by white and gray.
Pleasure to meet you, Lieutenant Xerxes, the sergeant said, offering his hand.
Xerxes shook it. The pleasures mine, Sergeant.
I eard you study the Epitome, Stratos said.
Thats right.
In that case, the menll love you. Our unit specializes in the short sword, but like most soldiers in the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces, we know of the Epitome.
Chapter 55: Deployment (2)
Chapter 55: Deployment (2)
After that, Xerxes met the soldiers under Stratosmand. Of the nine members other than Stratos, eight were men. The sole woman, whose name was Vadamerca, had broader shoulders than most of the men, and looked like she came from a culture simr to that of Bel and Fal back on Mannemid. However, instead of fair skin and light hair, herplexion was that of oak, and her nose was wide.
Fall in and introduce yourself to the Lieutenant, Stratos barked.
The soldiers lined up.
Mauwa of Sin-Amuhhu, said the first soldier, a tall man with curly hair.
Hes-Ra from Ku-Aya, the next one said.
Xerxes immediately forgot all the names, but promised himself he would memorize them as soon as possible.
After the basic introductions, they practiced some maneuvers. Stratos was a veteran, and the soldiers hemanded were well-disciplined. They knew moved with fluidity, and Xerxes could tell that he wouldnt have any trouble fighting alongside them.
Units One, Two, Three, and Four were the Asgagu mage units: Xerxes with Unit One, Kashtiliash with Unit Two, short-haired Kuri with Unit Three, and Teucer with Unit Four.
The other two heavy infantry unitsFive and Sixhad Btu healers, those being Katayoun and the skinny Ningal.
Gandash gave a speech about the basics of mage-integrated formations. Much of it was familiar thanks to Mystic Rabyas. Then he went into further detail, specifying some of the main formations he wanted the Asgagu and Btu units to use.
The Asgagu mages were the powerhouses of the entirepany. However, Gandash made it clear that he wanted them used with precision and nning. They wouldnt lead the troops, but would wait until key moments to attack, whereupon the heavy infantry with their armor and shield would act like escorts and protectors.
Under no circumstances do I want any of you Asgagu mages to run off by yourself, Gandash said. No heroics. Stay with the line. Thats how well all keep alive. As for the Btu mages, theyre our lifeblood. As long as theyre safe, we can afford to take more risks and absorb more damage. And thats why Units Five and Six have only one primary mission: keep Lieutenants Katayoun and Ningal safe and alive, while at the same time facilitating their efforts to heal the wounded.
We shouldt have to deal with any Abhorrent other than potential stragglers. But there could be bandits, rebels, or even trained soldiers opposing us. As such, Ive prepared threebat scenarios to practice the formations. Well start with the one I like to call Open Curtain.
The soldiers were skilled and experienced. The mages had gotten to know each other well in the past months. All-in-all the training went well.
The days flew by.
Deployment day was Sixthday. There was to be a parade through the city to the Gatewayplex.
The graduating students were given two uniforms, a set of armor, and a ceremonial dagger. They were also assigned horses. Xerxes recognized his, a spirited fellow named Red that hed always enjoyed riding in training.
There was a lot of pomp and ceremony. After all, though theirpany had sixteen mages and over a hundred and fifty soldiers, there was a lot more to their traveling group than that. The mages all had horses, plus there were five units of cavalry. That was a total of seventy-five horses, plus pack animals. There were also carts, servants, attendants, and Gandashs personal guard. And that was just ck Jackalpany.
There were twelve otherpanies.
The streets had been cleared from the school all the way to the Gatewayplex, with the avenues and streets lined with armored city guards.
Truth be told, the process was boring to Xerxes. Everything moved at a crawl. For much of the time he found his thoughts wandering. Juggling his various friendships and rtionships was bing more and more difficult, to the point where he felt overwhelmed. Almost every n he came up with for how to bnce everything seemed to reveal a new problem. And now that he was a High Seer, he needed to think about striving to the level of Mystic. Would it be possible to make any progress while deployed?
After what seemed like hours of sweating on top of Red, they reached theplex.
Yet that was only the beginning of another long stretch of doing nothing.
The sun was setting by the time ck Jackal Company entered the Gateway to Ku-Aya.
On Ku-Aya, the Gatewayplexes were far apart, and Gandash kept pushing them. There were no parades slowing things down, and the time difference between the two locations made it possible to reach the next Gateway before evening.
Once on Ira, things became easier. They marched across theplex to the Humusi Gateway, and then over to the one leading to Jehannemid.
By that point, everyone was exhausted.
Lining up in front of the Jehannemid Gatewayplex, Gandash gave his final orders.
Were to be met by the Head Mage as soon as we arrive, he said. Barring unforeseen circumstances, well strike camp and have a formal dinner. The get some rest. After that, well start the march across the continent. As usual, be prepared for anything and everything. No Abhorrent have been sighted there for months, but there have been asional meteor showers. We cant afford to becent.
Heavy infantry will go in first, starting with Unit One. Make sure the tform is clear, then fan out.
Lets go.
Gandash led the way inside. However, the shimmering Gateway didnt open as expected. Gandash looked at the operators. Something wrong?
Sorry sir, the shiftmander said. Hold on a moment. The soldiers fiddled with the various controls for about two or three minutes. Then the shiftmander said, It seems the other end isnt set for a receiving connection. We can override their settings, of course, but it will take another few minutes.
Fine. Hurry up. As the operators worked with the controls, Gandash said, Let me repeat, be prepared for the unexpected. It could mean many things that the Gateway isnt ready, and I can think of few that are good.
The few minutes the shiftmander had mentioned stretched into nearly an hour. But eventually, the Gateway opened.
Keep your eyes and ears open, Gandash said. Proceed!
Stratos turned to Unit One. You eard the Captain. March!
They entered the Gateway.
And when they came out the other side, it was obvious things werent going to go as nned.
Chapter 56: Two Paths (1)
Chapter 56: Two Paths (1)
The tform was empty. The control station, made of stone, with two wooden stools behind it, was empty.
The only thing to apany the Xerxes and the soldiers of Unit One was silence. Neither sound nor even a slight breeze could be detected.
Where is everybody? Xerxes said.
Good question, Stratos said. Raising his voice, he said, Clear thending area then fan out. Unit Twoes through in two minutes. Check the corridor but dont go too far.
Under normal circumstances, thending tform of a Gateway was manned by at least five people. Two people were responsible for operating the passageway itself, and there were three guards, one overseeing the tform and two at the door. That was just in the immediate vicinity. Other personnel upied other positions within theplex. Where was everyone?
Xerxes had been through many Gateways, and though there was a variety in terms of things like theyout, interior decoration, uniforms of the staff, one thing was a constant; there were always people present.
Not here, though.
As the soldiers of Unit One spread out, Xerxes walked over to the control station.
Something like a table of stone had a wooden contraption atop it with a host of dials, levers, and buttons. The entire thing was aplex spell formation, and it looked exactly like the one hed studied back on Sin-Amuhhu.
He immediately checked the switch that controlled the receiving connections. It was flipped to the receive option, which was expected considering the staff on the Humusi end had forced the connection. He looked at some of the other switches and dials, wondering if the receive option had been toggled off to allow for outgoing tunnels to Jehannemids lower starisles.
He saw no evidence of that. All the control options seemed to be in their default state. It was as if the connection switch had been flipped, but nothing else.
Looking away from the controls, he examined the surroundings. The stools the operators would sit on had been pushed slightly away from the table.
There was nothing to indicate why the ce had been abandoned.
He saw no blood. No hint that there had been any sort of struggle or other dramatic events.
Corridors empty, said Vadamerca, who had stepped out of the tunnel entrance tform.
Noted, said Stratos. He looked at Xerxes. First Lieutenant, why dont you stay in ere? Well start looking through theplex.
Sure.
Unit One, ave weapons out and shields up. Lets clear the area.
As they filtered out of the tform area, Xerxes looked more closely at the area, hoping to find any clue that would give a hint about the situation. Nothing jumped out.
Unit Two arrived shortly thereafter, with Kashtiliash and his assigned Sergeant, a man named Arda.
Whats going on? Kashtiliash said as soon as he saw Xerxes alone behind the control station.
Were trying to figure that out. The ce seems abandoned. Sergeant Stratos and Unit One are out there looking around.
Unit Two, lets go join them, Arda said.
Kashtiliash joined Xerxes.
Over the course of the next hour, the rest of the Units arrived. Then the pack animals and carts. By the time Gandash came through, they had secured theplex and confirmed that the entire ce was abandoned.
Gandash didnt look happy when he found out about the situation. First Lieutenants,e with me, he said.
They followed Gandash through the Gatewayplex until they found a small conference room with a round table in the middle. As soon as he was inside, Gandash produced a leather map tube. Unbuttoning the top, he pulled out a roll of maps and began flipping through them.
Meanwhile, olive-skinned Kishar was thest in. After she closed the door, Gandash put one of the maps on the table and said, Tell me what we know.
Since Xerxes had arrived first, he said, The ce is abandoned. The stables empty. They locked everything up, but it seems obvious they left in a hurry. The controls for the Gateway were in the default setting, except for the connection switch, which was set to the lock option. There are some tracks going down the mountain that look like theyre a few days old. Other than that we dont know much.
Gandash looked at the map, which depicted the mountainous region that the Gatewayplex was in, as well as the surrounding area. The next local holiday is months away, so that couldnt be the exnation. Right, First Lieutenant Jad?
Jad nodded. Right.
Can you think of any other exnation for why they might have abandoned this ce?
Not really.
Gandash tapped the map. Theres no evidence of an attack, whether by human forces or Abhorrent. The nearest city other than the capital is he traced his finger along the map here to the northeast. Too far to be relevant.
Captain, Jad said, the word sounding a bit awkward on his tongue, theres a watchtower attached to this Gatewayplex.
Gandash looked up. Youre right. I forgot about that.
I remember hearing people say you can see the capital from here. If thats true, the watchtower would be the best view.
Gandash smiled. Good thinking, Jad. You and Sergeant Vasilios go up there and see what you can see.
For the next few minutes, Gandash asked the opinions of the First Lieutenants. Xerxes felt strange interacting with his friend in this capacity, but he did everything possible to make it professional.
In the end, there was very little information to go on yet.
Despite the strange circumstances, Gandash said, theres not much we can do other than proceed with the operation.
Dasi, fingering one of her many piercings, asked, Should we send a message back?
Gandash scratched his ck eye softly. No. To be honest, this isnt entirely beyond what I expected. Looking around the table, he said, We came because of local unrest. Although we dont know the exact reason why the facility was abandoned, we do know that the situation on Jehannemid is unstable.
The door opened and Jad returned.
Something happened, he said.
Chapter 56: Two Paths (2)
Chapter 56: Two Paths (2)
Jad closed the door. Theres fire in the capital. A lot of it.
Its ten leagues away, so my guess is that you couldnt make out much else.
Jad nodded in agreement. But its definitely smoke. Looks like its covering the entire capital and everything around it.
Thats not much to go on, Gandash said. He looked back down at the map. And our destination isnt the capital. I dont like the idea of heading across the continent without knowing whats going on right behind us. But Im not sure we have a choice. The mission orders specifically say to move toward our destination without allowing for any dys.
Jad leaned over the map. There are a few ways down out of these mountains. I bet youre thinking of taking this path here. He pointed at a line heading from the Gatewayplex and to the east. Am I right?
Gandash nodded. That seems the most direct route to Puabi.
Its direct, yes, Jad said. But if we go this way he shifted his finger to another line on the map it will pass through a vige. Cant remember the name, honestly. But we went through it on the way up here with Purattu.
Gandash said, Its called Urmia.
Right. Not far past Urmia, the path veers north and then east. Granted, wed lose a day or two of travel. But we could get news.
At least wed get an idea of whats happening in the capital, Xerxes added.
Gandash stared at the map. I do like the idea of being informed. Except, after leaving the vige, the path has some major downsides. This part here. Its evenbeled on the map. Makers Ravine. And here. Atmu Gorge. Also here. Another ravine.
Xerxes wasnt sure what Gandash was getting at, and upon looking around the table, he saw that the other mages seemed confused.
It was Kishar who broke the silence. What does that matter? she asked.
Theyre the perfect ces to ambush a passing force like ours. Lieutenant Xerxes and I experienced something like that not too long ago. Remember that, Xerk? Gandash looked up at him.
He was expecting to see anger in his friends eyes. Instead, Gandashs expression made it seem like he was asking about a math equation.
How could I forget? Xerxes said. But we have no reason to believe anything heres rted to the Abhorrent, do we? They
It doesnt matter whether it''s monsters, bandits, rebels, or anything else. If I have the choice between going through multiple bottlenecks where enemies could take potshots at us, or going this way he indicated the other path going to the east which is safer and quicker, well, Id rather y it safe while we can. How much sunlight do we have left?
Only an hour or so, Jad said. Gandash, er Captain, even if we dont go down that path, you could always send one of us down there to
Im aware of that, Lieutenant. Gandash began rolling up the map. Since we dont have time for traveling today, lets make camp. Well start out at first light. Youre all dismissed.
Outside the tent, Jad muttered, What an asshole.
Xerxes didnt respond.
The Gatewayplex itself had only a few rooms for guests. There werent enough for all the mages and officers, so Gandash ordered everyone to set up camp outside.
Setting up camp required a lot of work. They had to care for the horses, start fires for cooking, post guards, and tend to other tasks. Not seeing any reason to waste time digging trenches and building dirt mounds, Gandash declined to have them build any fortifications.
After eating an evening meal of lentils and ale, Enusat grumbled, Whats the point in us being lieutenants if we dont get better treatment? We dont even get a better camp position than the Unsighted? Stupid.
Randy Gandys trying to get the regr soldiers to like him, Jad said. Thats all.
At least its fair, Kashtiliash pointed out.
Maybe, Enusat said.
Hey, why dont we go up to the watchtower? Jad said. The views incredible.
Xerxes yawned. Arent you tired?
You can always catch up on sleep. Who knows when well have another chance to get this view?
Enusat stood up. Lets do it.
The watchtower was just barely visible through the trees to the west. Jad led them across the camp, past the guards, and up a narrow path. Eventually, they reached the tower, which was made of stone, and looked to be at least fifteen or twenty cubits tall. As Xerxes climbed thedder and stepped out onto the tower itself, he thought back to Ligish Castle, and the time he, Bel, and Captain Ishi had stood beneath the stars.
He looked up. The night sky was different here, and though he recognized a few of the constetions, most seemed to have slightly different shapes than what he was used to. The moon was different here. It wasrger and yellower. Right now, it was a waxing gibbous moon, providing enough light to see some of the basic terrain details around them.
As the wind buffeted his hair, he looked out over the mountains, and the trees that covered them.
Pointing out to the west, Jad said, The capitals that way. Cant really see much now.
Views still good, Kashtiliash said.
Enusat spit over the edge, then crossed his arms. I cant believe Randy Gandy just blew off your idea, Jad. Or rather, I guess I can believe it. That fucker.
Kashtiliash sniffed. Dont say that too loud.
Nobody can ear me. We should send someone to that vige. What if the entire capital is burning down? What if theres an Abhorrent invasion?
Its not an invasion, Xerxes said.
We dont know that, Enusat said.
Look, Kashtiliash said.
He was pointing to a spot north of the camp, where a trail was just barely visible in the moonlight.
Thats the trail, Jad said. Follow that, youll reach that ce I was talking about. Urmia. I remember theres a little tavern there. A few buildings.
Enusat chuckled. A brothel too.
Jad tsked. Youre lucky your name doesnt rhyme with randy.
You should talk to Gandash, Kashtiliash said, obviously directing his words at Xerxes.
What do you mean? Xerxes said.
About that vige.
Yeah, good idea, Enusat said. E might listen to you.
Hmm, Jad said. It might be worth it. What do you think, Xerk-man? Would you be willing to give it a shot?
Xerxes hesitated. He still hadnt talked to Gandash about the incident at the restaurant. Would it be wise to go to him and give unsolicited advice, given the circumstances? That said, he was a first lieutenant, so if he didnt do it, who would?
Do it, Xerk, Enusat said. Remind him that Jad and I are both from around ere. If the two of us go alone, we could be there and back in an hour or two.
Wouldnt hurt, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes looked off into the darkness in the direction of the capital, and thought he could make out the smudge of smoke on the horizon. Then he nced back at the trail leading away from the Gatewayplex.
Sure, he said. No harm in trying, right?
Chapter 57: Tents in the Night (1)
Chapter 57: Tents in the Night (1)
Xerxes left the Swordmasters behind, climbing down thedder and heading across the camp toward Gandashs tent. Along the way, he tried toe up with the right words to use. He decided that apologizing about the restaurant fight first would be best, and thusposed a few things to say.
However, upon arriving, he found that Gandash wasnt alone. He stood hunched over more maps, apanied by Arwia and one of the Unsighted officers. Xerxes prepared words fled him.
Gandash looked up. Lieutenant?
Hey, Gandy, er, I mean Captain.
Can I help you?
I was wondering if I could have a moment alone. I just wanted to talk about the n for, uh, tomorrow.
Gandash looked back down at the map. Say what you want to say, Lieutenant.
Xerxes nced at Arwia. Being from Al-Ga, she had short hair, and was a Nasaru mage attached to a light infantry unit. But Jad was the First Lieutenant of the light infantry as well as a local, so why did Gandash have Arwia here? Was it because she was one of the smart kids in the ss?
I just wanted to reiterate a suggestion from Jad that we send some people to that vige to the west.
I already made my opinion clear, Gandash said matter-of-factly.
But Jad and Enusat are both from here. They know the local customs and ng. If you sent the two of them, they could
No.
Arwia looked up from the map, ncing first at Gandash and then Xerxes. Captain, should I see myself out?
Dont, Gandash said. Theres no need. Im not sending Jad and Enusat off into the night in the hopes of digging up rumors.
Xerxes was taken aback at being shut down in such a way. What was more, the quick rejection caused his jaw to tighten. Not rumors. Intelligence. We need to know what the enemy
No, Gandash said, with more force this time. He looked up again from the map. Theres amand structure here, Xerxes, and Im the one who bears ultimate responsibility. I already made the decision. Im not sending Jad and Enusat to that vige. Enusats reputation is no secret. You think I dont know what he was up to that night I ran into the two of you after curfew on campus? Plus, everybody knows that he went to brothels back in G Bazaar. Thats why those two want to go to Urmia. So Ill repeat. No.
Xerxes gritted his teeth. Just because youre pissed at me, Gandy, doesn''t mean you should ignore good advice. Even if you dont send Jad and Enusat, send someone.
Gandashs lipspressed. Im not pissed, Lieutenant. The decision has nothing to do with you.
It has everything to do with me, Xerxes shot back, his voice louder. Youre punishing my friends because of our argument!
Im not punishing them. Its a decision based on the big picture. And Ill remind you again, theres amand structure here. Im the one who calls the shots, and the answer is the same as before. NO!
His final words were shouted, not with anger or emotion, but with an iron tone that Gandash had never used on Xerxes before.
Fine. Xerxes turned on his heel and walked away.
Outside of the tent, quite a few people were looking in his direction, making him wonder how loud the conversation had been. Feeling his neck turn hot, he forced himself not to stomp as he walked through the camp back toward his own tent. Along the way, he nced to the side and noticed Katayoun looking in his direction, an odd expression on her face. The edges of her mouth were tight, and it looked like she was shaking her head.
Grimacing, Xerxes went to his tent and jumped inside. Sitting down on his bedroll with a huff, he put his hands on his knees and ground his teeth. After five or ten minutes passed, his temper cooled. And then he wanted to kick himself.
You knew going in that he wouldnt say yes, he told himself. So why lose your temper over it?
The more he thought about it, the stupider it all seemed.
He needed to break the news to the Swordmasters.
Poking his head out of his tent, he didnt see anyone looking at him, so he went out and prowled the camp.
He found Kashtiliash near his tent.
Kash, he said. You seen Jad and Enusat?
The bearded mage shrugged. Not for a few minutes.
Any idea where they are?
Nope. We heard you got in a yelling match with Randy Gandy. After that not sure where they went.
People are already talking about that? Xerxes asked.
Its a small camp.
Right. Well, gnight.
Night.
Xerxes made another round in the camp, making sure to steer clear of any possible conversations with anyone. He wasnt in the mood for chatting. Jad and Enusat werent in their tents or anywhere else he thought to look. In fact, they werent anywhere.
Dont tell me they heard about the yelling match and decided they should run off to that damn vige without permission.
For the briefest moment, he considered reporting the matter to Gandash. No. It would earn him favor with Gandash, but could very well alienate the Swordmasters.
He found Katayoun at a campfire near her tent, but she was so engrossed in conversation with Kishar and Dasi that she didnt notice him trying to catch her eye.
Feeling deted by everything, he gave up, went back to his tent and tossed and turned for a few minutes before falling asleep.
Xerk-man. Xerxes! Wake up!
He cracked his eyes open and found Jad looming over him.
What the
Jad mped his hand onto Xerxes mouth and made a shh sound.
Xerxes opened his eyes wider. The tent was dark, but the front p was open, letting in some moonlight. There were dark blotches on Jads face, but Xerxes mind refused to deduce what they were.
We need your help, Jad whispered. Get Katayoun! He loosened his grip on Xerxes mouth and leaned back.
What are you talking about? Xerxes asked quietly, sitting up.
With a better view of Jad, he realized that the dark blotches on his friend were blood. And it wasnt just on his face. He had blood all over him.
Enusats hurt, Jad said. Bad.
They did it, Xerxes thought. They snuck out of the camp.
Chapter 57: Tents in the Night (2)
Chapter 57: Tents in the Night (2)
What happened? he said. Shouldnt you report it?
No, Jad whispered. Well get in trouble. Just go find Katayoun and bring her to Enusats tent. All she has to do is heal him, and we can forget about this.
Xerxes was fully awake now. Throwing the nket off, he said, Why Kat? Why not. he trailed off as he considered that theirpany only had three Btu mages. Other than Katayoun, they were Kishar Katayouns best friend from the Dumusi starisles and Ningal, the stick-thin girl.
All of the mages of ck Jackal considered each other friends, but the Swordmasters werent close enough to Ningal to trust her with something like this. And if it came down to asking Kishar or Katayoun, it made sense for him to ask Katayoun.
Never mind, he said. I get it.
Jad reached over with his non-bloody hand and gripped Xerxes shoulder. I knew I could trust you. Remember, Enusats tent. Hurry up, hes in awful shape.
Jad ducked out of his tent and was gone.
A momentter, Xerxes was out in the open as well. The moon had moved in the sky, and was now setting over the trees, causing most of the camp to be obscured in mottled shadows.
He nced around to get his bearings, then made his way through the tents.
Werent there guards? Where were they? How did Jad and Enusat get past them?
He wasnt sure, although given the guards were Unsighted it wasnt that unusual of an aplishment.
He reached Katayouns tent on the other side of the camp. Crouching a few cubits away, he picked up a pebble and prepared to toss it against the side of the tent. No, if she was dead asleep, it wouldnt be loud enough to wake her. He dropped the pebble and inched up to her tent. There, he used mage touch to untie the p.
Sticking his head inside, he first confirmed that he had the right tent by making sure the sleeping upant had red hair, then whispered. Kat. Kat!
No response.
Fuck. I cant go in the tent. Can I?
Kat! he said, as loud as possible while still whispering.
No response.
What would happen if he crawled into her tent and then she woke up screaming? It didnt seem likely, but what if she were the kind of person who had nightmares or something?
He pulled his head out, found another pebble, then leaned halfway into her tent. He tossed the pebble, and it lodged in her hair.
Dammit.
He grabbed a few more pebbles. The second shot worked out better. The tiny pebble hit her cheek.
Kat.
He waited for a moment and threw another pebble. She stirred.
Katayoun!
Her eyes cracked open. Wha?
Kat, its me Xerk.
She looked up, saw him, and at full volume said, Xerk, what
Shhh, he said, putting his finger to his lips. Now that she was awake, he felt morefortable slipping into the tent.
What are you doing? she said, sitting up.
Someones hurt, he said. Enusat. Grab yourponent pouch.
Enusats hurt? How?
I dont know. I just know they need help.
Did you tell the guards? Or
He shook his head curtly. Kat, they snuck out of the camp. I dont know what happened. Jad said a spell will fix everything.
She sat up and shoved a mass of red hair away from her face. Xerk.
He could see the hesitation on her face.
Kat, please. Consider it a favor.
Her expression was turning from confusion mixed with sleep to something more like anger.
Youre asking me to break the rules? And waste mm?
Not break the rules, he said. Just keep this thing quiet for now.
She shook her head, and the look in her eyes intensified. Were not supposed to cast outside ofbat unless we have authorization. I cant believe youre asking me to do this.
He opened his mouth, but the truth was that he was already regretting all of this. I its not like that.
Never mind, she hissed. Just get out of my tent. Ill be out in a minute.
He ducked out and then nced around the camp. It seemed still and empty.
It was only then he noticed how cold it was. Wrapping his arms around each other, he rubbed his forearms to bring some warmth to them.
A momentter, Katayoun was out of her tent with a nket wrapped around her shoulders. Which way?
Follow me.
Keeping crouched down as much as possible, he led the way through the tents to where Enusats tent was. Jad was crouching outside on his haunches. When he saw them approaching, he let loose a sigh of relief.
Thanks, Katayoun, he said. We owe you big time.
She didnt respond.
He pulled open the tent. As Katayoun entered, Xerxes nced over her shoulder and glimpsed Enusat sitting cross-legged. He had both arms wrapped around his midsection, and was moaning softly.
There was blood. A lot of blood.
How did they n to clean that up?
The tent pped closed, and Jad turned to Xerxes. Thanks, Xerk-man.
What the fuck happened? Xerxes asked.
Jad nced around, lowered his voice even more and said, We went to get information. Some things happened. Ill exin the details in the morning.
They heard an indistinct sound from the tent, and Jad pulled aside the p to look inside. Katayoun brushed past him, then started walking away. Xerxes followed her.
Halfway to her tent, she stopped in her tracks and turned to face him.
Im done, she whispered.
Huh?
It was bad enough when you beat up your own best friend. Now youreing to me in the night asking me to break the rules? Its stupid.
Kat.
Go back to your tent and go to sleep. And just hope that this blows over. Leave me alone from now on.
Not waiting for him to say anything further, she turned and walked back to her tent.
He stood there in the moonlight for a minute or two as he considered going after her. In the end, he didnt.
Did she just break up with me? he thought. Nah, shes just pissed off. Ill talk some sense to her in the morning.
Chapter 58: An Attack (1)
Chapter 58: An Attack(1)
Xerxes woke the next morning expecting bad things to happen. Maybe Katayoun would report the matter to Gandash. Or Enusat and Jad would get caught trying to dispose of blood-soaked clothing.
Nothing of the sort yed out.
The camp stirred before dawn. They ate a simple breakfast. They broke camp, then marched to the beat set by the drummers in the middle of the procession.
During that entire time, he didnt get anywhere close to talking sense into Katayoun. He tried his best to catch her eye, but she avoided him.
Dammit.
There wasnt time to press Jad and Enusat about the previous nights event, either. By the time the sky grew light, they were leaving the vicinity of the Gatewayplex, and he had no idea what was going on.
The marching order Gandash prescribed had the heavy infantry in the front of the line, specifically Units One and Two, those to which Xerxes and Kashtiliash were assigned. He sent light infantry from Unit Fourteen to scout ahead. Ningsummunu, who was one of the group who hadnt reached the High Seer level before deployment, went with them.
Katayoun was also with heavy infantry, but she was a Btu mage, and Gandash had the healers in the middle of the procession.
At least that meant Xerxes could talk to Kashtiliash, although he waited until they were a good thirty minutes or so from the Gateway.
Any idea what happenedst night? Xerxes asked.
They fucked up, Kashtiliash replied.
I guessed that. But how? What exactly went down?
Kashtiliash just shook his head.
The scenery was beautiful. Towering trees with furry animals scurrying up and down their trunks. Craggy rock formations. Blue skies and puffy clouds. Xerxes wasnt paying any attention to it.
Had Jad and Enusat been attacked by thieves? Had they run afoul of local constables? Had they run into trouble in that brothel Enusat had mentioned? What worried Xerxes the most were the possible ramifications. Jad and Enusat were both High Seers. How could anyone have possibly inflicted such a bloody wound without them retaliating? Had they killed someone? More than one person?
Late in the morning, when a lunch break was called, Xerxes headed back up the line. Katayoun was huddled with Kishar, and was still avoiding him. He passed her and went further down to find Jad and Enusat, who had mbered onto a boulder shortly off the trail. He could tell as he approached that they were both in foul moods. Enusats jaw jutted out when he wasnt chewing, and Jad slouched as he sat, facing away from Enusat.
What the hell happened? he whispered as he joined them.
Stupid shit, Enusat growled.
Thats basically it, Jad said. There was a tavern. We had some drinks. We got dragged into a fight.
Which wasnt our fault, Enusat said. He spat a seed into the underbrush.
Thats it? Xerxes asked.
Simple as that, Jad said.
High Seers were much stronger and tougher than Seers, who were in turn far beyond any newly-Sighted mages, and of course any Unsighted. That wasnt to mention that Jad and Enusat were no slouches when it came to fighting. Was that all there was to the story?
He wanted to press them. Ask for more details.
But he could sense that it wouldnt lead to anything fruitful. Maybeter, when they both calmed down.
Alright, he said, and started eating.
There wasnt much conversation after that. He finished his food and went back down the line. Katayouns attitude hadnt changed in the past few minutes. She refused to meet his eye.
This isnt my fault, he muttered as he passed her, though not loud enough for her or anyone else to hear.
Back on horseback, he continued down the mountain next to Kashtiliash.
Two hourster, one of the scouts came back, hunched low over his horse.
Whats happening? a soldier yelled at the scout as he passed. The scout didnt respond.
Scant minutester, a halt was called.
Gandash came up on horseback, apanied by five light cavalrymen, one of whom was the scout from moments before.
Lieutenant Kashtiliash, Sergeant Arda, he said, I want you to take all of Unit Two down the mountain. Private Tustimant here he gestured at the scout will take you to meet Lieutenant Ningsummunu. Theyve spotted an Abhorrent. I want it killed, and the area secured. Its most likely a spawn, so you shouldnt have any trouble.
Yes sir, Captain, Arda said, and Kashtiliash made a muttered echo of the affirmation.
As Xerxes watched it all happening, he thought, Why didnt he send me?
Was Gandash punishing him? After all, Xerxes had the most experience fighting Abhorrent, so shouldnt he be the one to do the honors?
As Kashtiliash left, Gandash said, Lieutenant Xerxes, Sergeant Stratos, you and Unit One are our front line so to speak. So I want you on guard at all times. We have no reason to believe its anything other than a lone Abhorrent. But be ready forbat nheless.
The wait was agonizing. The road was wide enough that Stratos had the soldiers form a line from one side to the other, while Xerxes hung back several cubits with hisponent pouch ready. Behind them, the rest of the troops in thepany waited. The breeze from earlier had died, and the sun crawled across the sky, baking them in the mid-day heat.
Flies buzzed.
Xerxes thought back to the horrors of Mannemid. The journey through the Yellow Forest. Asnu Gorge. The juvenile Abhorrent ripping soldiers to shreds and dragging Bel to her death.
Thankfully, there were no bridges or cliffs here.
And back then, theyd faced a juvenile Abhorrent with only a few dozen armed fighters, here they had nearly two hundred. Not to mention nearly fifteen mages.
Its nothing like back then.
The distant thud of galloping horse hooves reached their ears.
The Unit One soldiers tensed, lifting shields and weapons.
Xerxes put his hand on hisponent pouch.
Chapter 58: An Attack (2)
Chapter 58: An Attack(2)
One of the light cavalry soldiers rounded a distant bend and galloped toward them. He wasnt alone in the saddle. As he neared, it became clear someone was slumped behind him.
Healer! he shouted when he got close enough.
Those in the front line ryed the message, and by the time the cavalry soldier reached them, Katyoun was there.
What happened? she asked.
One of the heavy infantrymen from Unit Two leaned against the cavalryman.
We got the bastard, the cavalryman said. But the damn thing was slippery. Ripped Cossus here open before Lieutenant Kashtiliash gutted it. Theyre back there making sure there arent any more of the fuckers.
Katayoun helped the wounded Cossus off the horse. He was unconscious.
Sergeant Stratos tapped Xerxes arm. Xerxes turned his attention away from Katayoun and the wounded soldier.
Voice so low it might as well have been a whisper, Stratos said, With all due respect, High Seer, we should be keeping our eyes on the road ahead.
Right, Xerxes said, and from that point, he kept his eyes locked on the path. However, he could still hear what was going on behind him.
A momentter, Katayoun said, Its pretty bad. Hes obviously lost a lot of blood. Minor Restoration will deal with the wound, but I cant cast the spell to restore lost blood. Hell need rest.
After that was silence for a good minute or two.
Then, Katayoun said, Take him back to the wagons.
Not long after that, Kashtiliash and Sergeant Arda returned along with the rest of Unit Two. Not far behind was Ningsummunu. Thetter went back down the line to confer with Gandash briefly before going back down the mountain to scout.
The line started moving only fifteen minutester.
Once again, Xerxes found Kashtiliash.
You alright? he asked.
Yeah.
What kind was it?
Kashtiliash shuddered. Not some hogdown Abhorrent. Ive never seen one like it before. Or heard of that kind.
You told Gandy about it, I assume?
Yeah. He said hell have a mage councilter to talk about it.
Right.
From that point on, Xerxes couldnt stop eying the surrounding trees. This forest wasnt like the Yellow Forest back on Mannemid. It was drier, and smelled more earthy. The vegetation wasnt a vibrant green, but something more mottled. There was a lot more brown. And the dust hung heavily when kicked up by feet and hooves.
As the sun continued its arc across the sky, and afternoon slowly turned into evening, the shadows deepened. Providing plenty of ces for Abhorrent to hide. But the invasion here was months passed. There couldnt be many more in the area. Could there?
About halfway down the mountain was a camping area set up for travelers. Except, it wasnt designed for nearly two hundred people plus vehicles and animals. So the camp ended up taking up much of the road as well.
After an evening meal, Gandash called the mages together in arge tent designed for conferences.
He hadnt brought bulky tables and chairs, but there were rugs, so they sat cross-legged on the ground in a rough circle.
To Xerxes right was Kashtiliash, and to his left was short-haired Arwia. Just beyond Arwia were Kishar and Katayoun. The angle made it awkward to try to catch Katayouns eye, not that she would allow that.
There are a few things I need to exin, Gandash said. First is about the fight earlier. The scouts noticed the Abhorrent lurking off the side of the road. Unit One and half of Unit Fourteen engaged it and killed it. One soldier was wounded because of Lieutenant Kashtiliash, could you exin?
Kashtiliash nodded. The thing had lots of arms. Not arms like a bug or animal. But like this. He held his right arm out and flexed his biceps. A human-like arm. The hand had fingernails that were basically ws. The men were frightened, I guess. Sort of stunned. The thing started flipping around, right past me and into the Unsighted. By the time I killed it, Cossus was hurt. Thats about it.
It was the most words Xerxes had ever heard Kashtiliash string together at one time.
Thank you, Lieutenant, Gandash said. Were not supposed to be fighting a lot of Abhorrent on this mission. But we knew from the beginning it was possible there could be stragglers from the initial invasion. There have been reports of asional out-of-season meteors, and even some full-on meteor showers. But never more than three or four at one time, so its not as though well ever have to worry about an army of the things.
One thing to keep in mind is that most of the Unsighted soldiers havent ever fought Abhorrent. Every single one of us has. Im sure all of you remember the first time his jaw tightened momentarily the first time you actually fought one of the things. Be ready for two possibilities: one, Abhorrent youve never seen before. Two: the troops to potentially freeze up. Their conditioning doesnt make them immune tomon human emotions and reactions, after all.
Moving on, I want to talk about that vige near the Gatewayplex, Urmia. Lieutenants Jad and Enusat suggested we scout the ce out. At first, I didnt think it was necessary. Butter I had second thoughts, so I sent Tizqar to snoop around, with spellcasting authorization since hes a Hasasu mage. Tizqar, do you mind giving us a brief summary of what you found?
Tizqar was the overweight mage with droopy jowls. He was a High Seer, and he had already mastered the second spell in the main line of Hasasu spells, which was an upgraded version of Base Empathics. The spell was called Greater Empathics, and it allowed the caster to sense emotions at a much greater range, and with more uracy than the lesser version. With magic like that, Hasasu mages were the perfect choices for reconnaissance missions.
Tizqar cleared his throat. Nobody I talked to seemed to know why the Gatewayplex was abandoned. They said soldiers rushed through the vige about a week ago. Since then, no one hase from the region of the capital. There was some sort of disturbancest night. Someone got killed. It was hard to get much detail about it, as theres only a single constable in the ce, and he wasnt being very cooperative.
Xerxes couldnt help but look over at Jad and Enusat. To their credit, they were doing a great job of keeping straight faces.
Thank you, Tizqar. As I suspected, seeking information in that vige was a dead end. Although, I do thank Jad and Enusat for the suggestion. Now theres something far more important to discuss. Something that could affect the whole group.
Chapter 59: A Bracelet and a Box (1)
Chapter 59: A Bracelet and a Box (1)
Gandash reached to where his robe folded below his neck, pulled it open, and dragged out two objects.
They were both pieces of jewelry attached to his neck by means of silver chains. He unsped the chains and put the objects the table. The first was a circle of bronze that looked like a bracelet. The second was a rectangr box of dark wood, trimmed with silver.
Putting his hand on the circle of bronze, Gandash said, This is a bracelet of holding. As all of you probably considered, supplying a force like ours during a long ovend journey can be difficult. This bracelet contains water, flour, salt, and other basic necessities. If I die, ownership of the bracelet will shift focus to one of you. If that person dies, or is dead when I die, then another will gain ownership. Whoever gains ownership will sense it immediately. I was the one to decide the order of passing.
The same goes for this. He moved his hand to the rectangr box. And in fact, this carrying case is far more important than the bracelet of holding. Its protected by a spell formation linked to my soul. If anyone but me tries to open it, the case will destroy itself. Inside of it is a set of orders. Different orders than those we were originally given.
The point of the operation, as stated, was to travel to the city of Puabi here on Jehannemid, then escort certain members of the nobility back to the Gateway. However, thats not really what this mission is about. Once the proper conditions are met, I can open the carrying case and reveal the true nature of our mission. The basic requirement to open it involves getting to Puabi, although there are other circumstances in which I could open it earlier.
He put the carrying case back into his garment. As he did, silence filled the small tent.
Gandash sat there, his back straight as a board, looking around at the mages as if expecting someone to speak or ask a question. When no one did, he continued, I was told we would have a secondary mission, and that I shouldnt mention it to any of you until after we were on the road. Thus, this meeting. Theres no need to reveal this to any of the Unsighted. And truth be told, I wouldnt even tell you if it werent for the fact that the box could pass to you if I die.
It worries me that we ran into an Abhorrent. Its been months since the Ira starisles were supposedly cleared of the things. Though we did know it was possible there could be stragglers, finding one only a days journey from the Gateway is another matter. He frowned. I dont like it. However, my orders were clear. Regardless of the circumstances here, Im to lead thepany across the continent to Puabi. Yet again, he looked around the circle of mages. I expected more surprise from you, he said. Maybe some questions.
Ningal raised her hand.
Gandash smiled faintly. Theres no need for hand-raising. If you have questions, just ask.
Do you have any idea what the real mission is about? she asked.
Unfortunately, no. The secret instructions were given to me by Archon Gandash cut himself off. Never mind. It doesnt matter who gave them to me. The point is that I was told its a vital mission, and that we should make haste to Puabi. Any other questions?
Xerxes had questions. Had Gandy been given this mission by Shabadras? Was it connected to the Eternal Father Cult? Did Gandy really have no idea what the true mission was?
But he knew Gandash wouldnt be able to answer them, so he kept his mouth shut.
Gandash let a minute pass. In that case, this meeting is adjourned. Get some sleep. Tomorrow well be out of the mountains, and well travel as hard and fast as possible. The sooner we get to Puabi the better.
The mages started getting to their feet to leave.
Lieutenant Xerxes, do you mind staying for a moment? Gandash said.
Xerxes heart flip-flopped as he sat back down. He knows about Jad and Enusat, doesnt he?
When the other mages were gone, and the tent p closed, Xerxes looked at his friend.
Gandash was sitting there cross-legged, looking down at the ground in front of him. A moment ago, hed seemed just like the important military officer he was supposed to be. But now he seemed to slump, and his jaw worked as though he were trying toe up with words to speak.
Xerxes thought back to when they had just lost Bel, and Gandash seemed like a husk of himself. He felt a lump in his throat. Gandy, about what happened at the restaurant
Stop, Gandash said.
Xerxes closed his mouth. This is where it alles crashing down, right?
A moment of silence passed.
I was an asshole, Gandash said. I said some harsh things. Im sorry. You know I dont handle my liquor well. It was stupid of me to start pounding down that ale. He shook his head sharply. Wording it like that makes it seem like Im trying to shift responsibility. Im not. It was my fault. And Ive even sworn off alcohol because of it.
Gandy, it wasnt your fault, Xerxes said.
Ultimately, it was. Im not saying that you handled yourself perfectly. But everything I said was worded badly. And of course, some of it was wrong. He looked up. Im sorry, Xerk. Really.
Xerxes didnt know what to say. Ever since the scrap with Gandash, hed been worried about getting in trouble, and also second-guessing himself for getting into a physical conflict with his friend. But now, it seemed Gandash med himself?
Gandy, you dont need to be apologizing. Were men, right? So what if we have a bit of a yelling match and then punch each others lights out? Its water under the bridge! Although, I know I was in the wrong, too. I should have just walked away, not started fighting back. Thanks for, well, you know.
Chapter 59: A Bracelet and a Box (2)
Chapter 59: A Bracelet and a Box (2)
A grin shed across Gandashs face briefly. So, youre fine with everything?
Of course. We grew up together, right? Best friends, no matter what. By the way, I get it. The stuff you said was exaggerated. And not well-worded. But, you werent the only one who was drinking. After I calmed down and got the alcohol out of me, I understood what you meant.
He paused for breath, and Gandash just looked at him, so he continued, We havent had much time together since we got separated on Sin-Amuhhu. Youre a fancy officer. Im just a normal mage. I made some new friends, and it might seem like I decided I liked them more. But its not true. And about Kat, I swear to you, Gandy, I never once was trying to unt her.
I know, Gandash said, and he looked down again. That was the most rotten thing I said. I wish you could just forget that.
Xerxes wanted to keep talking. To tell Gandash that he understood about Bel, who his friend had loved for years before losing, only days after hed professed his feelings to her. But he knew it would be a mistake, whether Gandash was drunk or not.
I already forgot it, Xerxes said, wishing he could smile, but failing to find it in him.
Gandash looked up. He nodded. Hesitated a moment. Xerk, a blind person could tell that somethings going on between you and Katayoun over the past few days. You were inseparable for a while. Now shes not even looking at you.
Xerxes opened his mouth. To say what? Enusat defied your orders, killed someone, got hurt, and I got Kat to heal him, so shes pissed? Instead, he lifted his shoulders in a shrug. Women, he said.
Gandashughed softly. Say no more. I hope you can work things out. Just please dont let it interfere with this mission, alright?
Of course not.
I have a bad feeling about this whole thing. I have no idea why we have these secret orders, and I can only imagine whats in store once we get to Puabi.
I get it.
Dont tell anybody that, obviously.
I know. Xerxes licked his lips. Gandy, can I ask you something? And you dont have to answer if you dont want.
Sure.
Did you get the orders from Archon Shabadras?
Gandashs brow furrowed, and he sat with pursed lips for many long seconds. I probably shouldnt say. Why does it matter?
Because I did a job for him. Im not supposed to talk about it. But I have the feeling that if hes the one who gave you the secret mission, then the Eternal Father cult is probably involved. And if the cult is involved.
Then so are the Abhorrent.
The two friends looked at each other.
If you promise to keep it confidential, Gandash said, then Ill say that, yes, it was Shabadras. I supose its not a huge surprise, considering the big picture.
I guess not, Xerxes agreed. But worrisome nheless.
Agreed.
They chatted for a few more minutes, just like old times, talking about gossip and rumor, specting about the future, and reminiscing about the past. Gandash even brought up Bel. Somehow, they talked about her without shedding tears.
Finally, Xerxes excused himself.
He headed back to his own tent wrestling with emotions from different sides of the spectrum. On the one hand, he was d that he and Gandash had gotten past their fight. On the other hand, he wasnt happy about keeping secrets from him. Jad and Enusats midnight escapade, and Katayouns involvement, hung over his head even more dramatically than before. Whatever happens, I cant let Gandash find out the truth, he thought. It would only do harm.
Katayoun was up to the same behavior as usual for the past few days. Her shoulder was glued to Kishars, which meant that if he wanted to talk to her, hed have to make a scene. For now, he would refrain. But if she didnt give him a chance to talk to her soon, he wasnt going to just sit around and do nothing.
The next day, Units Three and Four were rotated into vanguard position in the line. Short-haired Kuri, and Teucer of the Swordmasters, were now up front, while Kashtiliash and Xerxes brought up the rear.
Is this a punishment? Kashtiliash said.
I dont think so, Xerxes answered. I think it means we get to rx a bit.
The morning passed without incident. By evening, they were out of the mountains and into the foothills. It was now possible to see thends below stretching out into the distance. They were brown and mottled, simr to the mountains theyd just traveled through.
Two days, Xerxes thought. That was how long he was going to give Katayoun before he forced her to talk to him.
That night around dinner, Enusat came up with an idea. There are two main ways to Puabi. North by the Brocade Road, and south through the Nergal Bands. If Randy Gandy is smart, ell take us by the northern route.
Why? Kashtiliash said.
Because the Brocade Road goes through Eresh, Jad answered. Which is known for its brothels.
Fuck off, Jad! Enusat said. Its because the Brocade Road would be faster.
Theres no way its faster, Jad said. Its leagues longer.
Come on, Jad. Think! Going through the Nergal Bands might be shorter. But its not faster.
Hold on, guys, Xerxes said. You have a whole area around here named after the Nergal? And its called bands? Sounds ominous.
It sounds worse than it is, Enusat said. But the terrain is rough, and the weather is bad. Im telling you, the northern path will be faster.
Jad stroked his chin. You might be right. What do you think, Xerk-man? Is it worth bringing up to Randy Gandy?
Xerxes had just patched up his rtionship with Gandash, and thest thing he wanted to do was create another possible source of tension. Sure, Ill bring it up to him when I can.
Except, he didnt. Because everything changed the next day.
Chapter 60: Base Empathics (1)
Chapter 60: Base Empathics (1)
As they broke camp the following morning, a figure appeared to the west. A man in a blue garment and a yellow hat, with a sharp goatee, rode out of the mountains on a mule.
Thepany was still forming as the man galloped toward them. Xerxes and Kashtiliash were again on rear guard duty, so they were among the first to see himing.
Who the hell is this? Kashtiliash asked.
Xerxes checked the position of his sword on his back. My thoughts exactly.
The man neared. I need a meeting with the ranking officer!
His mule, surprisingly nimble and responsive, heeded hismands as he reined it to a stop just short of the heavy infantry units in the rearmost position.
Did you hear me? the yellow-robed man asked. Id like to talk to the person in charge.
State your name, Sergeant Stratos said.
Im Constable Daniyel from Urmia.
The sergeant just looked at him. Is that supposed to mean something to me?
Urmia, Daniyel said. The vige on the other side of the Gatewayplex.
Okay?
There was a murder, and I need to talk to yourmanding officer about it.
Wait here. Ill go convey your request.
Stratos trotted up the line toward Gandash.
Meanwhile, Kashtiliash looked at Xerxes. Murder? the bearded mage said.
Xerxes lips tightened. Off to the side, Daniyel simply sat on his mule, casually studying the line of troops.
Stratos returned three minutester.
Captain Gandash said hell see you, he said to Daniyel. Lieutenant Xerxes here will apany you.
Xerxes nodded at the constable. Come with me, he said, then sent his horse forward.
Daniyel urged his mule forward until he was riding directly next to Xerxes.
The captains name is Gandash? the constable asked as they proceeded.
Thats right.
Whats he like?
Smart.
Ah. Daniyel smiled, took off his hat, and wiped his brow with a kerchief he pulled from his belt. By the way, on the night you came through the Gateway, did anyone from your group leave the camp ande to our vige?
Keeping his eyes straight ahead, Xerxes said, The captain sent someone to scout around. Said he talked to you. Did you forget?
Daniyel smiled. Ohhh, right. So Tizqar was from yourpany. Good to know.
Toward the middle of the line, Gandash was mounted and nked by his personal guard. When Xerxes approached with the constable, Gandash called out in greeting, Constable?
Daniyel replied, Captain. Im following up on the conversation I had with High Seer Tizqar. Im not sure if you remember the details. A merchant named Firooz was killed in the night by an unknown assant.
Gandashs mount was a mighty stallion, which ced him nearly a cubit above the constable. Looking down with narrowed eyes, he said, Lieutenant Tizqar reported the basics of the situation.
Did he mention that the cause of death was a blow to the neck that came close to severing poor Firoozs head?
Yes. Very grisly. Has new evidencee to light?
It has. The constable nced at the soldiers present, as well as some of the nearby mages, including Tizqar himself. Perhaps a discussion in private would be appropriate?
Gandash sighed. Im on a tight timetable, and as you can see, my entirepany is ready to move. Id rather not waste any time.
Daniyel nodded. What if we simply move a few cubits away? He gestured off the road, where the trees were thin. Perhaps over there?
Gandash considered the proposal. Fine. Lieutenant Xerxes will apany us.
The two mages and constable rode about fifteen cubits away, to where they could speak in rtive privacy.
Whats this about, Constable? Gandash asked.
Daniyel smiled and rubbed the back of his neck with his kerchief. Im embarrassed to say that, after further investigation, I suspect someone from yourpany might have been involved in the death of the merchant.
Death? Or murder? Theres a distinction between the two.
The constable took a deep breath. Murder. In the initial chaos of the event, it was difficult to make heads or tails of what happened. After all, High Seer Tizqar visited at first light, when the shocking scene had just been discovered. There was a fight in the gambling hall a few hours before. Lots of stories to listen to. Now that I have a clearer idea of what happened, I fear that the merchant wasnt killed during the chaos of the brawl. He was killed at roughly the same time, except outside of the establishment. By a stranger. Or more precisely, two strangers.
Xerxes tried to keep his face as still as stone. A drifting breeze stirred robes, hair, and manes.
Do you have a physical description? Gandash asked.
I do. The two suspects wore garments simr to those worn by your men. Just now, I confirmed that your uniforms are blue and white, and that your men wear ck girdles. The officers have a fringe on their garments, but witness testimony was conflicted as to whether or not the suspects had such an adornment. In any case, there were two assants, one short, with arge nose, the other taller.
Fuck, Xerxes thought. FUCK.
Gandash turned and looked at him for a long moment. Xerxes held his gaze.
What else? Gandash said, returning his attention to the constable. How do you know it was a murder and not self-defense?
Truth be told, Daniyel said, I dont know. Thats why Id like to talk to the suspects. That said, given the circumstances, as well as details of the crime scene and witness testimony I didnt have ess to when I first talked to High Seer Tizqar, Id say it''s probable the killer, or killers, were not acting in self-defense.
Gandash sat atop his horse for a long moment as the breeze blew.
Then Daniyel lifted his finger and said, Oh. I almost forgot. One of the attackers was stabbed in the abdomen. It would have been quite bloody, I imagine. And painful. The kind of injury an Unsighted would probably die of. But apany asrge as yours surely has Btu mages that could heal such wounds.
His choice of words didnt go unnoticed by Gandash. Im not a fan of wordy, Constable, he said. Are you leveling an usation against me?
Daniyel ducked his head. Of course not, Captain Gandash.
You know something about magic. Thats not what I would expect of a vige constable. Is it because you grew up near the Gateway?
I grew up in Puabi, actually. Served there as a teen, and as you might know, there are more mages there than any other city on Jehannemid. Anyway, I ended up in the capitalter on. But I saw a bit too much blood and death, so I retired to the mountains, hoping to get away from it all. Guess the Pontifarch had other ns for me.
I see. Gandash closed his eyes for a moment. Opened them. Constable, please return to the rear of the line and wait with Sergeant Stratos.
Chapter 60: Base Empathics (2)
Chapter 60: Base Empathics (2)
Daniyel tugged on the reins, and his mule walked back. Then he stopped it. He looked over his shoulder. Captain, I should remind you that Im an officer of thew, duly appointed. I already sent a preliminary report to the capital. And I have the authority
Constable, Gandash interrupted, I would in turn remind you that Im a captain in the Military Magic branch of the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces. Im here at the behest of High Archon Kingallu and the Sin-Amuhhu Mage Parliament. If I wanted to, I could tell you to fuck off and never bother me again. In fact, I could tell the entire Jehannemid Mage Parliament here to fuck off, and they couldnt do a thing about it. He let a long moment of silence build. Instead Ill look into the matter.
Daniyel shed a smile that involved an upturn of his lips, yet didnt touch the rest of his face. Understood, Captain. Ill go find Sergeant Stratos.
After the detective was out of earshot, Gandash said, Xerk, do you know anything about this?
Xerxes opened his mouth, but hesitated.
Before he coulde up with words, Gandash said, Never mind. Let me simplify the question. Did you go to that vige?
No, Gandy. I didnt. He closed his mouth and considered what to exin.
Again, Gandash didnt let him. Go get Jad and Enusat. Also Tizqar.
Xerxesplied. He started with his two friends, who were fidgeting on horseback.
Come with me, Xerxes said, then started down the line toward Tizqar.
Jad heeled his horse closer to Xerxes. Whats going on, Xerk-man? he asked, almost under his breath. People are saying a constable came down from the mountains.
Keeping his own voice low, Xerxes said, Its about what happened in that vige. The constable is saying its murder.
Fuck. What did you tell them?
Nothing, Xerxes said. But you and Enusat had better get your story straight, because this isnt going away.
Jad fell back to confer with the shorter mage.
They picked up Tizqar, and were soon off the road again with Gandash.
Gandash wasted no time. Heres the short version, he said, and recapped Daniyels story.
Xerxes kept his gaze straight ahead, but out of the corner of his eye, he could see Jad and Enusat sitting very stiffly in their saddles.
So now wee to the big question, Gandash said. First Lieutenant Jad. Lieutenant Enusat. Were you there? In the vige?
The breeze blew. Xerxes turned his head slightly to look at his two friends.
Jads lips were tight. Enusat licked his.
Finally, Enusat said, Yes. But it wasnt murder, Gandy. I swear to the oly Pontifarch. I was defending myself! I just
Stop, Gandash said. First Lieutenant Jad. Am I to understand that it was Enusat who struck the blow?
Jad hesitated briefly. Thats right. But I was there with him. I can tell you what happened.
Go ahead.
Enusat got friendly with a woman we met at the gambling hall. One thing led to another, and well, he didnt know the woman was married. A fight broke out. I dont think we had anything to do with it. But somehow, the womans husband showed up right when Enusat was getting his clothes back on. He had some thugs with him and they chased us out back. They attacked us. We defended ourselves. Next thing I knew, the merchant was dead. The thugs ran. Thats about it.
Gandash looked at Enusat. You fucked some mans wife? Then killed him?
Xerxes expected Enusat to get angry, but instead, the short mage wilted.
I didnt know, Gandy, he said. I mean, I didnt really know. She threw some hints out. But she was seducing me. Im telling you, thats what happened. And the man got the jump on me. His thug hit me from behind, knocked me down. Then the fucker stabbed me. In the gut! It was after that I I struck back.
You almost decapitated him, Gandash said.
Enusats mouth opened a closed a few times.
This is whats going to happen, Gandash continued. Tizqar, youre here because youre a Hasasu mage. I want you to cast Base Empathics, and pay close attention to the questions I ask Enusat, and his answers.
Youre going to read his mind? Jad asked incredulously.
Y-you think Im lying? Enusat blubbered.
It doesnt matter what I think, Gandash snapped. And you both know full well that Base Empathics isnt mind-reading. Tizqar, cast the spell.
Tizqar reached down to untie hisponent pouch, but fumbled in the process. The drawstring knot was tight.
Gandy, this isnt fair, Enusat said. Youre not supposed to cast Hasasu spells on us. Its against regtions.
I have the authority to circumvent those regtions, Gandash said.
That bastard stabbed me. How could it not be self-defense?
Gandash didnt respond.
Tizqar got hisponent pouch open and pulled out some glittering powder. Im ready, he said.
Lieutenant Enusat, Gandash said, I expect you to answer all the questions quickly. If you stall for time, Ill have Tizqar cast the spell again and make you pay for theponents, including pills topensate for lost mm. Tizqar, cast the spell.
Tizqar traced the Hasasu Isten rune, and mm flowed. Go ahead, sir.
Is your name Enusat? Gandash asked.
Enusat gritted his teeth. Yes.
Are you a fish?
No.
Is the sky blue?
Yes.
Are you naked?
No.
Gandash looked at Tizqar. Is that good enough for a baseline?
I think so, the pudgy mage replied.
Gandash returned his attention to Enusat. Were you in the mountain vige called Urmia, the night we arrived here on Jehannemid?
Enusat ground his teeth even harder. Yes.
Did you kill someone that night?
A long pause. Yes.
Who struck the first blow?
They did.
Could you have ended the fight without killing the victim?
Thats not a fair question, Enusat said. Its moreplicated
Yes or no, Gandash interrupted. Could you have ended the fight without taking a life?
Enusat squirmed in the saddle. No.
Could you have prevented the fight from happening in the first ce?
Enusats jaw jutted out. No.
Tizqar cleared his throat. One minute left.
You were injured, Gandash continued. How did you heal yourself?
Enusat blinked several times.
How did you heal yourself?
Fucking hell, Xerxes thought. This is it.
He was sure Enusat was going to say that Katayoun healed him. What else could he say, with a Hasasu mage probing him with Base Empathics?
I took a pill.
What? Gandash blurted. You had a healing pill?
You heard what I said.
Did anyone assist you that night?
Yes.
Who?
Jad, Enusat said, jerking his head in his friends direction.
Anyone other than Jad?
No.
Was anyone else with you in the vige besides Jad?
No.
At that point, Tizqar raised his hand. Spells done, he said.
Gandash nodded. Jad, Enusat, youre dismissed. Xerxes, Tizqar, you stay here.
Chapter 61: Dancing by Firelight (1)
Chapter 61: Dancing by Firelight (1)
When Jad and Enusat were gone, Gandash said, Well, Tizqar?
You want me to go statement by statement?
No, just your overall impression.
Tizqar scratched one of his droopy jowls. Theres no question about it: he killed the man. And he believes he acted in self-defense. As for whether he could have prevented the fight from happening its hard to say what he thinks. I think even hes not sure. In terms of how he healed himself and the mention of a pill. Tizqar trailed off, took a deep breath, then exhaled sharply. Its strange. I felt like he was telling the truth. At the same time, he seemed smug. If I was to guess, he did use a pill of some sort, but theres more to the story that he didnt reveal. Someone besides Jad must have helped out in some way. Tizqars eyes flitted ever so briefly in Xerxes direction. If you want, I could cast again and you could narrow the questions down.
Theres no need. Save your mm. And since this is an authorized use of spellponents, you can add it to your list forpensation.
Yes, Captain.
Head back. I know rumors are going to fly, but keep the details of the interrogation confidential.
Tizqar nodded and went back to the line, leaving Xerxes and Gandash alone.
Did you know about this? Gandash asked.
Xerxes felt like he was on the edge of a cliff. No, not a cliff. A tightrope.
I did know, he said. I mean, I knew he was in a fight, and that he got hurt. I didnt know he killed someone.
Gandash closed his eyes and bowed his head.
It was after you and I got into that argument, Xerxes continued. I think thats when they snuck out of the camp. I looked for them, but couldnt find them. I went to sleep. Sometime in the middle of the night, Jad came and woke me up. Said Enusat was hurt. So.
Xerxes felt sick to his stomach. He was willing to ept responsibility for whatever happened, but it didnt seem fair to drag Katayoun into it. In fact, it wasnt fair. He tried to think of a way to word things that would keep her name out of it. It wasnt possible. Thepany only had three Btu mages: Katayoun, Ningal, and Kishar. If Xerxes lied, or tried to hide the truth, all Gandash had to do was have Tizqar cast another spell, and he could get to the bottom of the issue.
I get it, Gandash said, opening his eyes. Im not stupid. Go get Enusat and the constable.
What did that mean? That Gandash had already put two and two together and knew that Katayoun was involved?
Xerxes tried to put together a theory about it, but his mind was too muddled. Minutester, he was back with Daniyel and Enusat.
Constable, I can confirm that Lieutenant Enusat is the one that killed the merchant, Gandash said. However, based on Hasasu spellcasting, Ive determined that the lieutenant acted in self-defense.
Daniyel nced at Enusat. Even if it was self-defense, Captain, Im sure you know thew. The guilty party must still pay the fee.
Im aware. Lieutenant Enusat, how much money do you have with you?
Six shekels.
Youll forfeit three shekels to the constable. Constable Daniyel, consider those shekels a downpayment on the rest of the fee. Lieutenant Enusat will owe a bnce of four thousand nine hundred and ny-seven shekels, due at a time to be determinedter.
Five thousand fucking shekels? Enusat said. Are you crazy? Ive never had more than a few hundred saved up in my entire life!
You can appeal my decisionter. Beyond that, Im demoting you to the rank of private.
What? Enusat shouted.
Gandash red at him. Theres no getting around this, Private. Thews thew. It doesnt matter who we are. What did you think would happen? That Id cover up your actions? Drive the constable away? The truth is that I should have you arrested and sent to the capital for trial. But our mission is more important. So for now, youll be free under my eye. After the missions over, and were back on Sin-Amuhhu, the Parliament there will decide what happens to you. Now produce the downpayment and give it to Constable Daniyel.
Enusat red daggers at Gandash before digging into a saddle bag and pulling out three shekels which he tossed to Daniyel.
Get back in line, Private, Gandash said. Once alone with Daniyel and Xerxes, he continued, There you have it, Constable. Are you satisfied?
To a degree, Daniyel said. Normally speaking I wouldnt let a killer just ride off into the sunset based on a three-shekel downpayment. But I get the feeling theres something unusual going on with you and yourpany.
A mage is too valuable of an asset for me to give one up, even if they are involved in a crime. Besides, well be returning to the Gatewayplex after certain tasks have been aplished. If you uncover more pertinent evidence, you can share it with me at the time. And Id be happy to bring you with me up to Sin-Amuhhu to be a part of the trial.
Just dont forget me on your way back from Puabi. That is where youre heading, isnt it?
Were actually traveling to the city of Eresh, north of Puabi, and I remember you saying youre from the area. Do you rmend the northern route or the southern route?
The constable thought for a moment. At this time of year go north. Its much more of a straight shot, and you wont have to deal with the horrible terrain in the bands. Besides, the rains areing, and they hit harder in the south.
Thank you, Constable.
Daniyel hefted the three shekels. Its my pleasure, Captain. Ill have some formal paperwork drawn up for when you return. Will you be staying in Eresh for a time, oring back immediately?
Well be back immediately.
I see. Make good time, and youll reach Eresh before the rainse. Good luck, Captain.
Once out of the mountains, it was easier to travel, with the road being wider and tter. There were no clouds in the sky, and the sun beat down on them relentlessly.
Gandash pushed them hard. Not to the point of exhaustion, but close. Everyone looked forward to when it came time to set up camp.
In the evening of the first day of travel, the Swordmasters ate around a campfire near their tents.
Every single person in thepany is staring at us, Enusat grumbled. I swear to the Pontifarch I heard Dasi call me a murderer. The bitch. Course, its that damn fucker Gandys fault.
Calm down, Kashtiliash said, taking a bite of hard cheese.
Ill calm down when Randy fucking Gandys paid in full. And this time its going to be painful. I dont give a fuck if its against the rules. Ill just leave afterward. Disappear. Im from Jehannmed. I could vanish so good theyd never find me.
Im with you, Jad said. We could go to the Cowry Coast. Join a pirate ship or something. Or maybe we could set ourselves up as assassins.
Xerxes caught Kashtiliashs gaze. They both rolled their eyes.
But Jad and Enusat were far from finished with their venting.
Assassins, Enusat said, looking thoughtful. Not an alf-bad idea. In fact, we could start earning a reputation before we left thepany. If you know what I mean. He shed a malicious grin, and Jad chuckled in response.
This is going too far, Xerxes thought. Say, at what point are we going to do some sparring? We dont want to lose what Rabya taught us.
Good point, Teucer said.
Its too dark now, but if we stop early enough tomorrow, we can probably squeeze in thirty minutes of practice.
Yeah, it wouldnt hurt, Jad said.
The following day, Kashtiliash joined Xerxes in trying to get Jad and Enusat to calm down. At lunch, their efforts only seemed to anger the other two. Then they did some sparring before dinner, and that helped vent some steam. As time passed, their work had a cumtive effect.
By the third day of travel, Jad was back to normal, and joined in the attempts to get Enusat into a simr mental state. On the fifth day of travel, Enusat finally stopped obsessing over his situation. He still grumbled and cursed Gandashin privatebut none of it was as vitriolic as before.
Xerxes had a hard time telling what Gandash thought of the incident, and his own role in it. It didnt seem appropriate to force a conversation over the matter, and Gandash was always working on something. Xerxes didnt get the sense his friend was angry at him. However, they didnt have any time to talk.
Chapter 61: Dancing by Firelight (2)
Chapter 61: Dancing by Firelight (2)
Over the course of the days that passed, the biggest open-ended question was Katayoun. Before, hed been determined to force her to talk to him. But after everything that happened, he decided against that. He was d he did. Around the same time that Enusat calmed down, he caught her eye for the first time in days.
It onlysted a brief second, but it was a definite connection.
The next day, it happened again in the morning. Then again at lunch.
In the evening, after the camp was set, it happened again, and this time he was sure he saw her smile at him.
Now the big question shifted: when to approach her?
The next day, Xerxes and Kashtiliash were in the vanguard position yet again when scouts brought word that a group of horsemen were blocking the road ahead. They turned out to be representatives of a local warlord who demanded payment for passage. Gandash had the First Lieutenants convene about the situation
Is the asshole serious? Dasi asked.
Hes serious, Xerxes said. He imed he could field three hundred soldiers if we dontply.
Im not in the mood for this, Gandash said. His ck eye was now fading away. Crush them. I want Units One through Three in a straight line. No fancy Arrowhead formations or anything like that. Units Eight and Nine behind the heavy infantry. Dasi, I want you and your heavy cavalry in reserve. Unless necessary, no spellcasting. This will be a good opportunity for us to see some real action without being in any serious danger.
Can we mages at least fight in the line? Xerxes asked.
Gandash hesitated briefly. No. A stray arrow or knife could take you down. Stay behind the line unless absolutely necessary.
Xerxes didnt get the sense Gandash had mentioned a stray knife to conjure the memory of Gem. But regardless of his intent, it made Xerxes think back to that fateful street brawl. Gandash was right. And thus the mages stayed behind the line.
And as it turned out, the warlord fielded much less than three hundred men. And in an act of obvious ineptitude, themander sent them charging forward right into the line of heavy infantry.
Units Eight and Nine peppered them with arrows and javelins, killing scores before they reached the line. They kepting, though, whereupon the Sin-Amuhhu soldiers fell upon them with spears and short swords. The fighting had only been going for about five minutes when it seemed obvious it would end in a rout.
However, that was when the enemy punched a hole in the line, led by a burly man wielding a longsword. The Unsighted troops tried to close the line, but they were obviously leery of someone who practiced the Epitome.
The Epitome? Kashtiliash said. Here?
Xerxes gripped his longsword in the Skyward guard. Jad did mention it was moremon in the east.
The burly man shed and stabbed, and the Unsighted troops barely kept him at bay.
Lieutenant Xerxes, Gandash yelled. Handle that!
Xerxes trotted forward and, without any preamble,unched into the Squinting sh.
The move caught the manpletely by surprise, and Xerxes de bit into his shoulder.
Fuck! the man shouted, and threw a wild downward strike.
Xerxes parried it, then came around with a blow thatnded right at the base of the mans neck. To Xerxes surprise, the blow took the mans head off.
After that, the rout turned into a massacre. Bandits fell like wheat during the harvest, and after about half of them were dead, they turned and ran. Dasi and her heavy cavalry were never needed.
Not a single member of thepany lost their life. There were a handful of minor injuries which the Unsighted surgeons attended to. Two troops sustained more severe injuries that required spellcasting from the Btu mages.
Xerxes quick dispatching of the enemy longsword fighter was the talk of thepany. Soldiers and mages alike pped his shoulder and congratted him on a beautiful killing blow.
That night, Gandash called for an early rest and a banquet of sorts. He allowed for drinking and feasting, though he emphasized that being hungover in the morning would not be tolerated. It wasnt lost on Xerxes that Gandash himself didnt drink anything.
The drinking led to singing and dancing.
At one point, after several tankards of ale, Xerxes saw Katayoun dancing in the firelight. The way she undted, her hips swaying, her arms moving like waves stirred something inside him. Then her eyes met his, and the world disappeared. Behind her was the fire, its mes silhouetting some parts of her but illuminating others. She was dancing, a faint smile on her face that took his breath away.
The music stopped, and she strode across the sand, and then dropped to her knees next to him.
Hey, he said.
She draped her arms around his neck, and leaned close to him. Like usual, she smelled of oranges and strawberries, except there was also a hint of alcohol on her breath. She slowly leaned closer. And closer.
Um, about
Shut up, she said, and their lips met.
He heard some cheering around him, perhaps from his friends. Things blurred.
Later in the evening, after the music was over, and there was no more food or alcohol, he and Katyoun walked through the camp leaning against each other. They stopped at her tent.
He wanted to go inside with her.
She pulled him to her and they kissed.
Not this time, she said.
Had she read his mind? Or did he say something out loud and not realize it?
Then she ducked into the tent, and he bit his lip as hard as he could to force himself not to jump in after her.
Back in his own tent, hey down on his bedroll and thanks to the alcohol, he fell asleep.
**
If anyone was hungover the following morning, they hid it well. They broke camp and got on the road again.
Despite what had urred with Katayoun the night before, things didnt go back to normal between them. She remained glued to other people, and even seemed to avoid him in the evenings.
However, he wasnt worried. Their gazes still met asionally. It didnt matter if she was toying with him, or simply confused or hesitant. He knew he had her heart. And all he had to do was wait long enough for things to get back to normal.
Days passed. The weather never changed. It was obvious to everyone why the bands were uninhabited and not well-traveled. They were dusty and dry, and the road contained numerous twists and turns that made it hard to sustain a rapid pace. Just about every other day, it seemed, they ran into areas where rainy season floods had washed out the road in months past. Most such ces had been repaired well enough that a handful of people could carefully cross them. But for a huge group like ck Jackalpany, it often required spending hours making more sturdy repairs.
There were asional signs of habitations. Viges built into cliffs, barely visible from the road. A crossroads with a few dpidated buildings. An oasis, around which was built a permanent bazaar of sorts. They generally avoided such ces, or simply passed through them.
During the second week, they passed through an area where sand dunes stretched as far as the eye could see, and there were no areas of standing water.
Thankfully, Gandash had the holding bracelet that provided them with water regardless of the weather or surroundings. That,bined with reasonable rationing, meant that they were never in danger of running low.
The holding bracelet didnt contain anything that helped with heat, though. The dust. The sun. They were like grinding stones that never stopped turning.
Eventually thepany left the desert areas, and got back intonds with trees and hills. The shade they provided, and the asional breeze that rushed through them, made the days of travel a bit more bearable. They soon reached the third week. Supposedly, they only had another seven days of travel before they reached Puabi.
That was when everything changed.
Chapter 62: A Wave (1)
Chapter 62: A Wave (1)
Before dawn, before the sun climbed over the horizon to bake them, Xerxes climbed into the saddle and took his ce with Kashtiliash at the back of the line of troops. It was another day of rear guard duty.
Thepany knew from scouting that the terrain got rougher ahead. They were leaving the Nergal Bands behind, which had its ups and downs. They wouldnt have to deal with scorching heat and dust storms, but now they had a mountain range to cross. Granted, it was nothing like the towering peaks which cradled the Gatewayplex. But mountains were still mountains.
Xerxes was one of the first to spot the streak of light overhead. Perhaps he was the first. But he didnt say anything. At first. After all, falling stars werent aplete rarity. Hed even spotted one or two on Sin-Amuhhu.
This one started out somewhere in the distant east, and streaked halfway across the sky before disappearing.
He tracked it the entire time, all the while thinking, Its a good thing I dont believe in mystical omens.
His own thoughts triggered that memory of Ligish Castle, with Bel and Captain Ishki.
Above them, a re of light streaked across the sky.
Another meteor, Xerxes said, staring at it.
If I was superstitious, the captain said, Id say it was an omen.
Had that falling star on Mannemid been an omen? It urred mere days before Bel met her end. No, Xerxes didnt believe in omens. And yet, even if the falling star hed just spotted wasnt an omen what if it wasnt just an ordinary meteor?
He gripped Reds reins and scanned the horizon.
A minute passed. Unit One was now in formation and ready to go. Taking his eyes from the sky, he nced ahead and saw that the column in general was almost formed up. Only a handful of individuals were scurrying about makingst-minute preparations.
Another falling star appeared.
It was brighter than the other, but originated in the same part of the sky. Its trajectory was angled steeper and more northward.
No way, Xerxes muttered.
See that? Kashtiliash said.
Yeah. Two in a row.
Two?
There was another one a minute ago.
Shit.
Lets just wait and see what happens. It might be.
He trailed off as three falling stars appeared at the same time. All of them started out in about the same position in the sky, and most streaked in a northerly direction, roughly speaking.
Look at that, a Unit One soldier said.
The ell another added.
Bad omen, that.
Omen? Fuck omens. Didnt you hear the Abhorrente in falling stars?
The column as a whole stirred, and many soldiers tightened their grips on their weapons as they pointed to the sky.
Six meteors, Xerxes said. Thats not much. It didnt look like any of them were big.
True, Kashtiliash said.
Gnawing his lip, he said, Come on, Gandy, start the drums. No use letting everyone sit around getting nervous.
A dozen streaks of light appeared in the sky.
Fuck, Kashtiliash growled.
The sounds of voices grew louder in the column.
Of the new group of meteors, some flew far across the sky to distant locations. Othersnded much closer, all of them to the north.
I dont like this, Kashtiliash said.
Me either, Xerxes replied. Me either.
Drums pounded from the middle of the column. The call to march. They started moving.
Of course, from the time the vanguard started out until the rear guard moved, several minutes passed. During that time, no more meteors fell.
A few minutester, a horse galloped by, with one of the light cavalry scouts from Unit Fifteen. Off in the distance, other scouts peeled off toward the north.
Worst case scenario, Xerxes said, we have to fight a few monsters.
Kashtiliash grunted.
Over the course of the following hour, they moved into the foothills of the mountains. Instead of the dusty brownndscape, vegetation and trees lined the road.
Two scouts returned from the west, within a few minutes of each other. Neither of them was the scout that had passed the vanguard earlier.
A few minutester, the drums changed, signaling a doubling in speed.
The troops on foot broke into a light jog, while the riders increased to fast walks. Xerxes looked over his shoulder but saw nothing other than hilly terrain.
Not long after, one of the scouts returned on foot from the middle of the procession.
First Lieutenant, she said to Xerxes. Sergeant Stratos. Abhorrent have been sighted. We havent seen any indication of coordinated movement. But the Captain said to stay on your toes.
Any idea what type?
I saw they had fur and ws. We dont know much else.
Size?
She considered the question. It was at a distance, looking through this. She patted a spyss hanging from her waist. So I cant say for sure. Maybe as big as arge cat.
Thanks, Private.
Sure thing, First Lieutenant. Now, Im heading out again. She ran off the road and into the tree-covered hills to the north.
Cat-sized, Kashtiliash said.
At the most, were talking about... juveniles? Xerxes mused. If were lucky they might just be spawn.
Kashtiliash slipped out of his saddle and dropped to the ground. Im not fighting mounted, he said.
Me either, Xerxes said. He extended his hand. Give me the reins, Ill take them both up the line.
He led Red into a trot before arriving where thepanys Unsighted attendants and wagons were. He handed both horses over, then jogged back toward the rear.
As he neared, a soldier shouted.
Movement sighted!
It was a mounted scout, returning at full gallop. Closing in on the line, she shouted, Ive got some behind me. Tiny fuckers.
Once past the rearguard, she turned her horse in a circle to slow it.
What else can you tell us, Private? Sergeant Stratos asked.
I didnt get a close look. Theyre small. Like cats. Furry. And they jump. With that, she headed toward the middle of the column.
Chapter 62: A Wave (2)
Chapter 62: A Wave (2)
Sergeant Stratos outranked Arda, so he hadmand of the rearguard. Unit One, go into an inverted Arrowhead formation with a weak center. Two men in the middle, then three and two on either side.
The road was wide enough for two carts to pass going in different directions. That wasnt even enough for an entire unit to stand shoulder to shoulder. Instead, the Unit One heavy infantry created a formation intended to funnel the enemy toward two weaker looking troops in the middle, allowing the rest of the soldiers to attack the enemies from either side.
Sergeant, what about us? Xerxes asked, quietly so that it didnt sound like he was questioning the officers decision.
Save your mm, the sergeant replied. But be ready to jump in if needed.
Meanwhile, the drums had changed, and the column had stopped marching.
There wasnt much sound other than the wind in the trees, the creak of armor and weapons, and a bit of noise from the animals.
Xerxes inhaled deeply through his nose, but didnt detect any odd odors that might indicate monsters were secretly approaching.
A minute passed. Two minutes.
Three.
False rm? Kashtiliash said.
I see one of them! a soldier shouted.
Xerxes craned his neck to try to see through the infantry formation, but couldnt make out anything.
Small fucker, another soldier said. Like a rat with big legs.
That aint gonna
Suddenly, several soldiers shouted. One of them swung his bronze sword out, and Xerxes made out a brownish shape flying through the air. The sword hit the thing and sliced it in half. ck blood sshed.
Hah! the soldier yelled.
More iing!
Xerxes nose twitched as an odd aroma reached him. He kept his hand near hisponent pouches.
More Unit One soldiers swung their swords. More brownish shapes flew through the air. Furry Abhorrent thumped against shields. In other cases, soldiers sliced them in half, or skewered them with spears.
Theyre spawn, Stratos said. Wipe em out!
The soldiers shed, hacked, and stabbed. Then, one of the things mmed into a shield and, while the soldier was otherwise upied shing another Abhorrent to death, it crawled over the lip.
Xerxes caught his first clear glimpse of the Abhorrent spawn. It looked like arge rat, except with forearms that ended in slender, human-like fingers with ws. Its face was covered with tight, leathery skin, with its eyes that were beady ck bulbs. It bared its fangs as it crawled over the shield, and then it spoke.
The words came in a garbled hiss so distorted that Xerxes couldnt make out any distinct words. But it was thenguage of the Abhorrent.
The rat-like creature jumped from the shield to the soldier''s face. The soldier shrieked, dropped his sword, and grabbed the creature. He got his hands on the Abhorrent, hurled it to the ground, and stomped on it.
However, that was only the first instance of the tiny creatures circumventing the shields of Unit One. Most seemed intent on jumping over the shields, but others tried to run under. The soldiers held their own at first, but it became obvious this wasnt a group of only a handful of the things.
They kepting, many of them chattering in their aliennguage.
Xerxes and Kashtiliash both stood waiting. Kashtiliash had his longsword out and in the Skyward position. Xerxes kept his hand on hisponent pouches.
FUCK! a soldier shrieked as one of the rat-like things found a soft spot between armor and dug its fangs into him. He ripped it away, causing blood to spray out of the wound before he hurled the thing off the side of the road.
More soldiers received scratches and bites. They held their position.
It was around this time that the smell reached Xerxes nose. The stench was unlike that of any other Abhorrent hed encountered during the previous invasion. It smelled fetid, like animal feces that had been molding in a damp basement for weeks on end.
Moreing, a Unit One soldier yelled. A fucking wave!
Soldiers hacked and shed. Rodent-like Abhorrent skittered and leapt.
An Abhorrentnded on a soldiers face, and he screamed as he fell back. He couldnt get the thing off his face as it bit into his nose.
Fill the line, Stratos said.
Two Unit Two soldiers helped rip the thing away, although it took part of the soldiers nose with it. He wailed and shoved his hand over his nose, but that didnt stop the blood from flowing.
Get him back for healing! Arda shouted.
Fill the line! Stratos yelled.
The things kepting. It didnt take long before they went around the line. That was when Xerxes and Kashtiliash jumped into the fray.
Xerxes didnt see the need for spellcasting, so he focused on his sword. The little furry Abhorrent were quick, but were easy to kill. He chopped one in half. Stabbed another. Stomped a third.
He realized some of the Unit Two soldiers were helping.
Its a fucking pest invasion, one of them said. Another soldierughed.
Seen worse in my grandmas basement, Kashtiliash said.
More soldiersughed.
For a few minutes, they destroyed the rat-like Abhorrent. Then they heard some screeching, and the surviving rats turned and skittered away.
Then, just as quickly as it started, the fight was over. Unit One and Two soldiers stood there panting a bit, shields up and weapons out.
Is that it? Stratos asked.
Road looks clear but for the dead, a soldier said back.
Wounded soldiers were taken back to see the surgeons or Btu mages. At the same time, they pushed the Abhorrent corpses into fetid piles.
Then they heard amotion in the trees. The scout from earlier was scrambling through bushes and underbrush, panting as she half-ran down the hillside toward them.
Theres a big oneing, she said. Makes those tiny fuckers look like babies.
Chapter 63: Hunting (1)
Chapter 63: Hunting (1)
Orders came down from Gandashs position. The entire column shifted formation, with heavy infantry and heavy cavalry lining up facing the forest. Thebat-oriented mages, in other words, the Asgagu, Sinitu, and Buhhu variety, of whom there were seven altogether, were ced at even positions up and down the column.
After routing the smaller group of tiny creatures, morale was good. Xerxes itched to cast Minor Augmentation and wield his longsword against some opponent. Not that he truly wanted it toe to that. It was better not to fight Abhorrent.
Minutes passed.
Someone shouted from the west end of the line. There was amotion.
A few minutester, word filtered down. A handful of the small Abhorrent had appeared, some small ones. They were quickly dispatched.
The minutes kept passing until a full hour had gone by.
Gandash had Dasi, one of the two Sinitu mages, cast the High Seer spell Major Alteration, which allowed her to shapeshift for a full hour, and alter her size by half in either direction. She shrank down into the form of a primate with mottled brown fur, then disappeared into the trees to the north.
More time passed.
The troops seemed restless and were fidgeting. Leather creaked. Weapons nked against shields. More than a few muttered curse words reached Xerxes ears. But all they could do was stand and wait.
With every moment that passed, Xerxes expected an attack.
Dasi returned just as her spell was running out. She jumped out of the trees, heading towards Gandash as she shifted back to her original form.
Five minutester, word came down the line. Therge Abhorrent reported by the scout wasnt anywhere nearby. They would begin moving again, this time as quickly as possible. Not far down the road was an area that would be more defensible than open terrain. There would be no drums to keep marching pace.
Xerxes heart was in his throat, and he had the feeling it was the same with everyone else. He noticed shifting shadows that seemed far more ominous than before. Sounds that seemed unnatural. Overhead, the clouds looked bizarre and misshapen. Worst of all, what seemed to be apleteck of bird song.
The column weaved through the bends of the forest road. Nothing happened.
As day turned to evening, and the temperature dropped, they arrived at an area where the road passed down a treeless embankment, then proceeded through a boulder-strewn field.
Gandash had them stop there, putting three units of heavy infantry facing the hills theyd just emerged from, with two units of light infantry behind them, and heavy cavalry in reserve. The light cavalry he sent ahead to scout. Everyone else was allowed to rest.
With those tasks out of the way, he called a meeting with the First Lieutenants together with their respective sergeants.
Do any of you have anything new to report? he asked.
His question was met with shaking heads.
I guess thats good. From what happened so far, I think were dealing with yet another random Abhorrent meteor shower. As I mentioned before, theyve continued to happen over the past several months, although generally with a small number of meteors. As for why these rat things came after us, my guess is that they followed the scouts back.
Shouldnt we at least consider the alternative? Kishar asked.
Gandash looked at her. That theyre hunting us?
Dasi crossed her arms. Its not out of the question.
Its not, Gandash agreed. And yes, I think we should consider that possibility. They can sense our mm, after all, though not from leagues away. Did Mystic Rabya have you read Surviving a Trip to the Nightmare Cove in your studies?
Several of the mages nodded, including Xerxes. He remembered the lecture.
In that case, Gandash continued, youre familiar with the prevailing theory about the distances involved in Abhorrent ability to sense mm. He rolled out a map and weighed its corners with rocks. Were here. Puabi is here. Thats still several days journey. Campgrounds are marked in blue. However, Im not sure the campgrounds are the best location to spend the nights. Theyre not exactly designed for defensive purposes. So I want to hole up here for the night. He indicated a spot on the map before the campground, and short distance from the road.
There are cliffs all along this area, atop which is extremely rocky terrain. We should be able to find a good ce to entrench ourselves with the cliff rising up as a wall behind us. In all the information I was given to prepare for this mission I didnt see any that winged or flying Abhorrent were part of the invasion, so having a wall to our back seems like a good idea. After all, if we do get attacked by Abhorrent, we couldnt ever hope to flee them, so Id rather be able to focus on a single front of battle.
Well stop an hour and a half before we normally do to allow plenty of time to dig in. Thats my n. Does anyone have any feedback? Criticisms? Suggestions?
Jad raised his hand. Gandash nodded at him.
Why not keep going to Tower teau? Right here. He pointed to a spot on the map that was significantly further down the road. Even growing up in the capital, I heard about the ce. Theres this old story about a bunch of traveling merchants who got attacked by a bandit army. Only ten merchants against three hundred bandits, yet the merchants held out for two weeks and killed about fifty bandits.
Xerxes thought Gandash would strike down Jads idea, but to his surprise he took time to think about it.
Im aware of Tower teau, Gandash said. And youre right, its the perfect ce to dig in. My concern is that, to get there, we would have to continue for several hours past sunset. Night travel is dangerous enough under normal conditions. If we got ambushed on the road by Abhorrent we would sustain heavy casualties. Gandash looked at Jad. Im not saying no, Im just telling you my thoughts.
Jad looked at the map. I guess youre right.
Anyone else? Gandash asked. Nobody said anything. In that case, well stay here until the scouts return, and then
Some shouting from the line of infantry reached their ears, and they looked over.
Lets see whats going on, Gandash said, and they hurried up the slight slope.
Chapter 63: Hunting (2)
Chapter 63: Hunting (2)
Sergeant Stratos was loping in their direction. Captain, you should see this.
What is it?
Not sure.
Xerxes and the other First Lieutenants followed Gandash and Stratos as they jogged to the line.
Vadamerca, tell the Captain what you saw, Stratos said.
The wide-nosed infantryman said, You can see it in the trees. Right there. She pointed.
The surrounding soldiers murmured.
Gandash pulled a spyss from his belt and put it to his eye.
Meanwhile, Xerxes squinted as he tried to see what Vadamerca had pointed out. All he saw were trees and shadows.
But a momentter, Gandash muttered a curse. I see it. Well-spotted, Vadamerca. You have the eyes of an eagle. He took the spyss away from his eye.
What is it? Xerxes asked.
See for yourself, Gandash replied, handing him the spyss.
He put his eye to it and found himself looking at nothing but trees. Looking away to gain his bearings, he shifted his view and then pointed the thing in the direction hed seen Vadamerca indicate.
He saw it. Lurking at the base of a tree, obscured by vegetation. A furred creature, hunched over, with human-like arms.
Damn, he muttered. So its following us.
Not necessarily, Gandash said. And either way, now that we have eyes on it, we can move more safely. Sergeant Stratos, I want Private Vadamerca reassigned to Unit Fifteen for the time being, and I want him to keep her eyes on that thing. Meanwhile, well wait until the scouts get back, then proceed with the n.
Gandy, er, Captain, Xerxes said, given the size of the ones that attacked us, and assuming this is the same kind, its got to be a juvenile.
Agreed. My bet is that the smaller ones were stage one spawn, which means this one is, at the very least, a stage two or three juvenile.
It has magic, Dasi said.
Yes. Unfortunately, though Ive read about rodent-like Abhorrent, Ive never heard of this specific variety, so theres no telling what its capable of. We need to be very careful.
Once the scouts returned and said the path ahead was safe, they proceeded. The troops in general seemed more alert than normal. Hand gripped spears tightly, and eyes flitted left and right constantly as they kept alert for lurking Abhorrent to jump out and attack them. The tension in thepany was palpable. After all, like mages, Abhorrent didnt just get stronger as they grew, they became faster.
They proceeded. The Abhorrent seemed content to lurk. Or perhaps it wasnt even following them. Maybe it was intelligent enough to realize that attacking over a dozen mages would end in its death.
An hourter, there was no sign that they were being followed, or that there were any other Abhorrent in the area.
The area Gandash had picked to hunker down in seemed perfect for their purposes. A cliff face rose up a good twenty cubits in an arc, allowing them plenty of room to dig fortifications. Everyone pitched in. Within an hour and a half, they had a deep trench in front of a high mound of earth, which they fortified with wooden stakes. It wouldnt hold against an army, nor a massive Abhorrent like the type that attacked Mannemid, but at least it would give them a measure of security.
Nothing happened in the evening. Gandash had ten sentries posted, nine Unsighted and one mage, and no one argued that it was overkill.
People werent in the mood for talking. The morale from earlier still held, but the idea of monsters in the darkness weighed on everyone.
The temperature was getting warmer, and though there were clouds, they werent the type that carried rain, so Xerxes didnt feel the need for a tent. Besides, he preferred the idea of being able to keep hisrades in sight, and also spot any possible enemies. So he put down his bedroll and stared up at the clouds in the dark sky.
He couldnt find sleep.
And that was especially the case when he saw another falling star through the patchy clouds.
Five more followed it. Then ten.
Soldiers cursed. People threw off bedrolls and climbed out of tents. They stared up.
The meteors streaked in and out of the clouds in wavestoo many to count.
Xeres heard screams. He looked over and saw that an Abhorrent had somehow gotten over the fortified mound and into the line of troops. It loomed over the corpse of a soldier, its mouth and hands dripping with blood. It was looking around. It was the size of arge dog, but of course, was strong and fast enough that it could chase down any dog and rip it to shreds in seconds.
Xerxesponent pouch was at his belt like always, and his sword was in its sheath next to his bedroll. He loosened the new pouch, took out the stibnite talc, and started casting Minor Augmentation.
The massive rat-like things nose twitched and then it lunged toward Ningal, who was the closest mage to it.
Kashtiliash intercepted it, having already cast Singr Lethality. He roared as his burning fist hit the rat Abhorrent in the side of the head, burning fur and muscle. The thing mmed into the dirt and rolled over three or four times.
Xerxes finished with his spell and grabbed his sword. Brilliant light reced the metal of the de, from the tip downward about three fingers. He gripped the hilt one-handed and turned to the fighting.
The Abhorrent was back on its feet and lunged toward Kashtiliash, only to pull back and then jump toward Ningal again. It hit her, shed at her forearms with jagged ws, and opened its jaws to bite her neck.
She shrieked and shoved.
Kashtiliash bowled into them, and then went to the ground. The bearded mage swept out with his burning hand. The furred thing avoided it, thenshed toward him with snapping jaws.
Xerxes was walking toward it, and it wasnt paying attention to him. He gripped the long hilt with his other hand. The smell of feces and mold made Xerxes nose twitch.
Kashtiliashshed out again. Missed.
Xerxes lip curled. He was now only a few paces away. He lifted his sword overhead. shed downward.
The Abhorrents head flew off its shoulders.
The meteor shower hadnt ended.
Chapter 64: Interlude - Mage Parliament (1)
Chapter 64: Interlude - Mage Parliament (1)
On Sin-Amuhhu, an emergency session of the Mage Parliament had been convened.
Throughout the empire, Mage Parliaments weremon. Every starisle had one, and tradition defined their structure. A Head Mage presided over six Ministers and three Senior Ministers. In lower starisles, such as Deeply Clouded starisles like Humusi or Stricken starisles like Mannemid, the Head Mage was usually a Mystic or High Mystic, although not always.
But Sin-Amuhhu was a Flourishing starisle, and also the location of a Major Artery Gateway. What was more, it was also home to one of the Anunnaki. It was a very important location, and there was no way a mere Mystic or High Mystic could officiate. As such, the Head Mage of the Parliament was a High Archon.
Head Mage Muna sat at the end of an oval table, d in a simple garment of pale blue cloth, with her curly white hair bound at the forehead with a leather band. Her skin was as wrinkled and cracked as the desert floor a week after a flood. She was old. Very old.
In fact, she was likely one of the oldest living humans, at least on Sin-Amuhhu. She had been the Head Mage for a long time, and there were different opinions regarding why she hadnt taken that final step to bing an Anunnaki.
Some imed she had offended the Anunnaki of the Great Reef, and had been forbidden from making the breakthrough. Others said shed experienced mm deviation, damaging her chambers of energy and making the breakthrough impossible. There were other rumors as well.
Whatever the reason that Muna hadnt reached the Anunnaki level, it hadnt lessened her authority. Her eyes gleamed with intensity, and her voice, though scratchy with age, contained a note ofmand that was impossible to ignore.
Archon Shabadras had always been afraid of Muna. Not that he feared she would harm him. No, he feared failing her. As the Head Mage, she demanded perfection from the members of the Mage Parliament, and was not tolerant of mistake-making.
Archon Shabadras listened to the news from the Lira starisles and his heart sank.
Repeat that, Muna said, her eyes locked on a rotund Archon who sat across the table from her.
Archon Adom was known for his love of food and hiswork of informants who funneled information to him from throughout the Great Reef.
Threes are confirmed lost, he said. All of them in starisles subsidiary to Lira.
Define confirmed, High Archon Muna said.
Communication lost. Gateways disabled, or at least, impossible to connect to. In two cases, it was after theyd reported Abhorrent activity. In the case of the third he cleared his throat. I suppose that one isnt confirmed as having been lost.
No one at the table spoke. Of course, Shabadras didnt take it upon himself to break the silence.
In addition to High Archon Muna and Archon Adom, there was also High Archon Kingallu, the headmaster of the Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic. The other members at the table included High Archon Simiak, and two ordinary Archons, Shafika and Lapis The only non-mage present was General Kamaru-Ayyabu. Three mages were away.
The moment of silence stretched out for a bit.
Finally, High Archon Kingallu said, Muna, at what point are the Anunnaki going to step in? This entire situation is unprecedented. Does the Pontifarch know?
I have no idea if the Pontifarch knows, the Head Mage snapped. But I have reported everything. The Anunnaki in the Great Reef Assembly know whats going on. Is the entire Pantheon aware? I have no idea. Have they notified the Pontifarch? I have no idea. Regardless, until we receive orders saying otherwise, we have to deal with this problem.
The Monad knows, Shabadras thought. As a member of the One Faith, he knew in the depths of his heart that the Monad was the true ruler of the starsea, and that the Pontifarch was a fiction devised by key members of the Anunnaki who opposed him. However, in the face of this Abhorrent invasion, it almost came down to semantics. Why wasnt the Monad doing something?
If the Pontifarch and the Anunnaki arent getting involved, it says to me that the problem isnt so big that we cant handle it, said Archon Lapis. She looked like a beautiful young woman with bronze skin, but was actually older than Shabadras.
High Archon Muna grunted. I dont like making assumptions, but I have to agree with you, Lapis. As far as Im concerned, we have two issues here. First of all, how the hell did the Abhorrent get here from the Nightmare Cove? Second: how do we repel them, or at the very least, defend against them?
Regarding the first point, have we made any progress ining up with new theories or evidence?
Yes, said Archon Adom. After pouring through reports from hundreds of sources, I havent found a shred of evidence to suggest that the Abhorrent made their way up from one of the lower starisles. Take the Humusi invasion, for instance. Only the Stricken subsidiary worlds like Mannemid, Jehannemid, Kartos, and the like were invaded. Not a single of the Barren subsidiary worlds below the Mannemids, Jehannemids, et cetera, suffered the same fate. Not one.
The previous theory floated about some sort of backdoor Gateway seems not quite disproven, but astronomically unlikely.
What about the obsolete Gateways? Kingallu asked.
Adom pursed his lips. I admit my information in that regard iscking. However, I do have a few confirmed instances of local mages checking old Gatewayplexes. Of course, they had no idea what they were looking at. But the locations were clean.
What if this whole thing is an intentional misdirection? General Kamaru-Ayyabu said.
Doubtful, said High Archon Muna. It would require a Gateway Key to pull off something like that. And if they already had a Gateway Key, why would they go to the trouble ofunching aplicated n just to get another one? Besides, if the attacks have moved on to Lira, then could it be possible this entire thing isnt about the Key?
Thats possible, High Archon Muna, said Adom. Regardless, the evidence points to the Abhorrent attacking multiple Stricken starisles at the same time. In my estimation, figuring out how they pulled that off is going to inform the rest of our decision-making process.
Yes, Muna said. How the hell did they do it?
High Archon, Shabadras said, there is a possibility. Im sure you considered it, and I know its risky to even say the words aloud, but at this point, shouldnt we at least think about it?
He trailed off as General Kamaru-Ayyabu, Archon Lapis, and Archon Shafika looked at him quizzically.
But the High Archons Muna, Kingallu, and Siamak as well as Archon Adom, knew what he was referring to.
Chapter 64: Interlude - Mage Parliament (2)
Chapter 64: Interlude - Mage Parliament (2)
The Anunnaki had more than one way of traveling between starisles. Some were limited to themon routes using Gateways. But a few Anunnaki had Gateway Keys, allowing them freer ess to the starsea sea as a whole. And an ever smaller group of select Anunnaki had starcutters, magical vessels that they could use to sail the emptiness between the stars.
The existence of starcutters was known only to a select few. In fact, the puzzled expressions on the faces of the others in the room went to show that, even on a Mage Parliament in a Flourishing starisle like Sin-Amuhhu, most people were ignorant of their existence.
Shabadras was asking Muna if she thought an Anunnaki could be involved in the Abhorrent invasion. It was a dangerous question to ask, but in his opinion, it was an important one.
I know what youre referring to, Muna said. And though we cant rule out that possibility, youre right that its too risky to speak of such things aloud. From my perspective, theres a much more dangerous exnation. She looked around the table.
Shabadras did the same.
Kingallu and Simiak both looked hesitant. Shafika, Lapis, and Adom seemed simrly pensive. Only the general appeared to be outright confused.
No one? Muna asked. In that case, Ill say it. Technology. Far be it from me to question the Pontifarchs wisdom. And based on casual words Ive heard spoken by various Anunnaki, I know he pays attention to the Nightmare Cove. Perhaps even watches it directly. But Ive always feared a problem like this could arise.
The general looked left and right at the table, then said, Forgive me for being an ignorant Unsighted. But what?
As Shabadras surveyed the table, he noticed Adom looking at Muna. The High Archon nodded back.
There are many reasons for the strictws on technology, Adom said. Even in the empire, despite all thewsand punishmentsits still a challenge to prevent the rise of machinery. Humans are innovative and creative by nature.
The Nightmare Cove upies one of the four spiral arms of the starsea. In other words, it makes up about a fifth of everything. And that entire area is unsupervised. Uncontrolled. Unpoliced.
Shabadras frowned as the implications of Munas statement weighed on his mind.
I dont understand, Kamaru-Ayyabu said.
In that case, Ill state it inly, said Muna. Remember your vows and oaths, though, General. Because this is the kind of talk that the Nergal doesnt like. She licked her lips. As far as Unsighted citizens of the empire know, even in ces as advanced as Sin-Amuhhu, the ban on technology rtes to the number of gears you can use in machines, what kind of chemical substances are allowed, the way metals can be used in crafting and construction, and simr rules.
In reality, the rudimentary machines that instigate purges are so simplistic as to beughable. Not too long ago in this starsea, at least by the longevity standards of the Anunnaki, there was no such thing as a ban on technology. Then and now, the limits of machines are unknown, at least to people like us. But the ability to travel between starisles is one path of research that definitely existed long ago. Im not talking about the use of gateways or starcutters, both of which are fueled by magic. Im talking about pure machinery.
The technology level of the empire is kept just shy of a certain level. A brink I would say. Cross that dividing line, and innovation would flourish. In a matter of decades or centuries, machines would exist that would defy the imaginations of the greatest storytellers in the empire.
Now, imagine how many worlds are in the Nightmare Cove. And think of what could happen if a human society there went unnoticed by the Abhorrent. What if such a society proliferated and followed themon path of humans? What if they reached that brink of technology that, once passed, led to dramatic and unprecedented advances? What if they developed the ability to travel between starisles? And then what if the Abhorrent found them and took that technology? That would exin how they reached us.
But, Archon Lapis said, except she didnt finish her sentence.
Shabadras looked at her and noted her hesitant, almost fearful expression.
But what? Muna said.
Surely the Pontifarch would think of that as well. Besides, what are the odds?
Perhaps the Pontifarch is too busy. Or perhaps whatever measures he took have fallen short. As for odds. Muna fixed her gaze on Adom. Do you know, Archon?
Adom looked up. Sin-Amuhhu is one of four Major Artery Gateways in the Great Reef. Counting all subsidiary starisles, it oversees almost a hundred thousand worlds. All the other Major Artery Gateways are simr. Given that the Great Reef has three Major Artery Gateways, you can do the math yourself. Geographically, the Nightmare Cove is slightlyrger than the Great Reef. It probably contains half a million starisles with enough mm to allow for the use of magic.
And the mm-infused worlds are a minority among other worlds, Muna said. Technology is divorced from mm and magic. Leaving millions of worlds where humans could appear and develop civilizations.
But the Abhorrent infest the Nightmare Cove, said General Kamaru-Ayyabu. They must have long since devoured all human life there. Otherwise, why would they be looking in our direction?
Adom snorted. The Abhorrent didnt just take over that entire part of the starsea overnight, he said. They started out on a handful of important starisles. And yes, they spread rapidly before the Pontifarch cut them off from the empire and the rest of the starsea. But even here in the empire, the Anunnaki patrol the stars looking for new civilizations. So its possible that a high level of technology could havee into existence in the Nightmare Cove.
If thats the case, Muna said, then the situation could be more dire than we can envision. If the Abhorrent can travel between starisles without relying on gateways or starcutters, then nowhere in the starsea would be safe.
Head Mage Muna, Shabadras said, might it not be worth it to consider bringing the Nergal into this?
Muna shook her head. The Nergal doesnt like false leads. If you submit a report about illegal technology to the Nergal, youd damn well be sure its not a mistake. He doesnt like his time being wasted. That said.
Muna paused in thought for a long moment, then looked at Adom. Adom, you know who the Nergals agents are on Sin-Amuhhu, dont you? Could you arrange for a rumor to spread to the Nergal through them?
Shabadras looked at Adom and noted the pudgy mage gnawing his lip.
Technically, yes, Adom said. But the risk is simr to filing an actual report. If I spread a rumor, and the Nergal came, only to find the rumor was false, he would follow the trail of information. Of course, I could use proxies and other manners of deception to hopefully ensure he didnt trace the rumor back to me. The question is, do I want to risk my life in that way?
Munas lips tightened, and she sat there without saying anything for a few seconds. Fair enough. Well keep matters of technology and the Nergal as something to consider as ast resort. For now, we need to operate on known facts. One: the Abhorrent have a way to travel between starisles. Two: they can attack us without warning. Three: theyre only attacking Stricken starisles. Four: theyve left Humusi starisles and moved on to Lira.
Speaking of which, lets talk about our response to the Lira situation, and our n of action going forward.
The new recruits have all been deployed, High Archon Kingallu said. But the Combined Armed Forces still have plenty of resources. For instance, the Legion of Martial Adepts, though theyre working with the Sin-Erimmatu Combined Armed Forces on that operation in the Endless Shoal. Of course, we have plenty of ordinary divisions ready to deploy.
Good, Muna said. Lets talk specifics.
Chapter 65: Attacked (1)
Chapter 65: Attacked (1)
Xerxes kept his sword in the Longfacing position as his eyes darted around the camp. Were there more Abhorrent? Or was this the only one? He looked up. A few more meteors streaked across the dark sky.
Ningal was sobbing. Xerxes looked over and winced when he saw white bone amidst the blood and flesh of her mangled arm.
Kishar! Gandash shouted from his tent, which wasnt far away. Heal Ningal!
The olive-skinned Kishar was the closest to Ningal. She hurried over, jabbed her hand into herponent pouch, and casted Minor Restoration.
Gandash didnt wait to see how the spell turned out, and instead, shouted orders.
Officers of Units One, Two, Three, Four, and Five, form up on the mound. Spread word now. Everybody else, get into ranks on foot and be ready forbat.
What followed was a buzz of controlled chaos.
Xerxes found Sergeant Stratos in the crowd, and together they marshaled the Unit One soldiers and headed to the westernmost part of the mound. They were one of the first units to be represented in full.
Xerxes looked past the wooden stakes and into the darkness, but saw no signs of further attacks. The moon provided enough basic illumination to be able to make out some general details, but not much in the way of details. About two or three minutester, Kashtiliash and Sergeant Arda brought Unit Two into position to the east.
Within five minutes of the attack, the five heavy infantry units Gandash had called out were in position, lined up on the mound, behind the wooden stakes, facing out into the darkness.
Behind them, the rest of the mages and soldiers lined up in ranks. None of the cavalry were mounted.
Silence prevailed for five minutes. Ten.
There was some shouting from deeper in the camp. Gandash had moved away, so it wasnt possible to make out his words. After the shouting was some running about. Xerxes scanned the area outside the camp, then looked over his shoulder.
To his surprise, Enusat, one of the only two Sinitu mages in thepany, was casting a spell.
Mm flowed around him as he transformed into an ape with mottled brown and gray fur. Then he flew up and over the cliff face that they were camped against.
Gandys gonna have him scout above. But why in that direction?
Look! someone yelled from Unit Two.
Numerous soldiers craned their necks and looked out into the night. Xerxes did the same.
He caught motion from the direction of the road, but it was impossible to determine what was out there. Everything was still. Then he saw it again. Something rolling toward them. A wheel?
The fuck? a soldier said.
By the Pontifarch, another growled.
As it neared, Xerxes throat tightened as something that looked like eight or nine human arms protruding from a lumpy mass of flesh rolled toward them on outstretched hands.
Same as the one we killed by the Gateway, Kashtiliash said.
Captain! shouted Sergeant Arda. Got an Abhorrent here!
There was a blur of motion as Gandash ran over. Coming to a stop next to Arda, he looked out at the bizarre creature rolling toward them.
Unit Eight! he shouted. Get onto the mound!
Eight was Jads unit, and they were light infantry. A Sergeant named Vasilios issued further orders, and the Unit Eight archers ran up the packed dirt.
Take that thing down, Gandash said, pointing. And any others like it that approach.
Yes, sir, Vasilios said.
Lieutenant Jad, Gandash went on, be ready to cast Stronghold Deflection.
Sir, Jad said, I never mastered that spell.
Gandash made a frustrated sound. Right. Then he raised his voice. Arwia!
Over here, sir!
Gandash trotted down the mound and toward the voice.
Thepany had three Nasaru mages, but only Arwia could cast Stronghold Deflection, a spell capable of defending a veryrge area, such as aplex of buildings, a castle, or a camp.
Private Pua, shouted Sergeant Vasilios. Private Zuwiziti. Nock arrows and shoot that thing.
The two privates stepped forward and loosed arrows.
The first arrow struck one of the arms and didnt do a thing. The other hit the blobby flesh in the middle. After that, the thing stopped rolling, but continued to spasm as it dragged itself across the ground.
More, Sergeant? Private Zuwiziti asked.
Go ahead.
They loosed two more arrows. This time, the thing stopped moving.
Around then, short-haired Arwia joined them.
Im to cast Stronghold Deflection if necessary, she said.
Whats necessary? Jad asked.
My discretion.
Another minute or two passed, and then, out of the darkness rolled another of the many-handed Abhorrent.
Take it down, Sergeant Vasilios said.
Four arrows did the trick.
Then two more rolling monsters appeared. A few curses could be heard from the line of soldiers.
Three more rolled out behind the other two.
Unit Eight, everybody up here, Vasilios shouted.
As the archers ran up the mound, the heavy infantry made room, and the arrows began to fly.
At the same time, more and more of the many-handed Abhorrent rolled out of the forest. In therger wave following the group of five, arge one appeared, at least twice the size of any of the others. It looked to be around as tall as an average human, from bottom to top. Its skin had a greenish tint. What was more, its fingers were freakish in length and had sharp talons at their ends. This was not one of the Abhorrent they had studied about back on Sin-Amuhhu.
Do they have eyes? Xerxes thought. Or mouths?
Fucking hell, Kashtiliash muttered, and many of the Unsighted troops echoed his words.
Loose arrows at will, Vasilios said. Then he turned to Arwia. Lieutenant, he continued, do you think we ought to bring Unit Nine up here as well?
Unit Nine was also light infantry, though they specialized in javelin-throwing in addition to archery. Arwia stared out into the night at the mounting wave of Abhorrent. Yes.
Chapter 65: Attacked (2)
Chapter 65: Attacked (2)
Xerxes kept his sword rested on his shoulder as he watched the arrows fly, and the Abhorrent fall. He was particrly worried about therge, green-skinned Abhorrent. He watched as arrows plinked into it, all with no effect. It reminded him of the Abhorrent that had killed Bel. Theyd shot it over and over again, yet the monster had only seemed inconvenienced by the missile attacks.
In fact, at one point, therge, many-handed Abhorrent disappeared in a dip in the terrain. It didnt appear again for about fifteen seconds, but when it did, it had no arrows sticking out of it. Further behind, more rolling hands came out of the darkness in their direction.
That thing is going to be a problem when it hits the line, Xerxes said.
Get some javelins in it! Vasilios shouted. Some of the Unit Eight soldiers stowed their bows and switched to javelins.
However, the green-skinned thing swerved out of the way of the first thrown javelin, and then the second. A third stabbed it, and it nearly fell before one arm twisted around, grabbed the weapon, and pulled it out. Then it kepting.
So far, none of the smaller Abhorrent made much progress. But there were more, streaming out of the darkness without end.
The sound of a horn split the night, and Xerxes looked back toward its source; the cliff top. A re shot up into the night, burning bright red. A momentter, he caught sight of Enusat in ape-form, scrambling down the sheer face of the cliff.
Whats it mean? Kashtiliash asked.
No way to know, Xerxes said.
Unit One, Sergeant Stratos shouted. Get ready.
Xerxes jerked his attention back to the troop line. Beyond, he could see waves of many-handed Abhorrent rolling across the intervening terrain. They were now only fifteen or twenty cubits away. The light infantry continued to let arrows and javelins fly, but it was obvious they couldnt do anything to prevent the force atrge from mming into them.
The green-skinned Abhorrent had slowed down, and was waiting for its smaller brethren to crash into the troops before it lent its weight to thebat.
Xerxes gripped his sword in both hands. Sarge, he said, I think I should try to handle that green one.
Sure thing, Xerk, Stratos replied.
The small Abhorrent arrived first, and their numerous appendages made it easy for them to slip past the sharpened wooden stakes. They brought with them a stench that resembled sulfur, except with an overtone of sweetness like that of honey. Thebination was so intense it made the eyes water.
The heavy infantry were ready for the Abhorrent. With spears, swords, shields, and boots, they held their own. However, it only took a moment before one of the Abhorrent grabbed a soldiers shield and came close to pulling it out of his grasp. Another Abhorrent snatched a spear.
Xerxes kept his focus on the green one, which lurked about fifteen cubits away.
Whats it doing? Based on its size, it had to be juvenile, which meant it had at least one magical ability.
Screams and shouts rang out from the troops as they fought back against the bizarre Abhorrent.
Arwia? Jad said. You gonna cast that shield?
No, Arwia replied. Not yet.
The green-skinned Abhorrent tipped over. However, instead of falling on its side, all of its elbows bent, allowing the hands to smack into the ground. Now, it was standing on a host of hands, making the thing look vaguely like the spider Abhorrent Xerxes had faced in the past.
Then, the bulbous mass of flesh that formed the middle expanded like the throat of a frog.
Its about to use magic, Xerxes said.
Brace yourselves, Stratos yelled.
Sergeant, maybe I should
A hole opened atop the green-skinned Abhorrents middle section, and then it made a whooshing sound. A plume of greenish mist rose up, arcing like the spouting of a geyser. As the mist ascended, it clumped together into hundreds of tiny objects that, at first, Xerxes couldnt identify. Then they started falling, and it was clear what they were: hands.
Tiny hands with wriggling fingers.
They smacked into the shields, helmets, and shoulders of the line of troops. And then the fingers curled as they grabbed on.
What the hell? a soldier shouted. These things he screamed in pain, dropping his sword as he tried to brush a tiny hand off of him.
More of the tiny hands begannding on the other troops, and though Xerxes wasnt sure of what was happening, more screams and shouts rang out. More soldiers dropped weapons, and in some cases even shields, in their haste to remove the things from them.
Steady, Stratos yelled. Keep your shields up!
However, the damage had been done, as a smaller many-handed Abhorrent rolled through the gaps in the line. Some grabbed at the ankles of the soldiers, others wheeled down the dirt mound and toward the interior of the camp.
At the same time, Xerxes realized the green Abhorrent had sidled to the east, and was now inhaling again.
Cant let it do the same thing again. Behind him, there was shouting in the camp, and he assumed it was the other soldiers and mages dealing with the influx of monstrous enemies.
Grabbing some stibnite talc, he cast Minor Augmentation again as he ran toward a gap in the line. He didnt hesitate to draw on the speed of a High Seer, and before anyone knew what was happening, he was past the wooden stakes and on the battlefield.
The green Abhorrents middle section was almost fully inted.
Take this, fucker, Xerxes murmured, shing his sword down.
The green Abhorrent copsed in a cloud of mist.
He jumped back. Not wanting to waste any of the time with his spell, he shed and stabbed at any of the smaller Abhorrent around him. They died like snails crushed by a boot. For half a minute, he cleared everything around him. Then he looked up and saw two more green-skinned many-handed Abhorrent rolling toward him.
Shit.
At the same time, the shouting from the interior of the camp grew more frenzied. He looked back. The cliff had turned into a waterfall?
No. It wasnt water falling down the cliff. It was rat-like Abhorrent. And standing atop the cliff, looking down at them, were at least three of therge variety that had been hunting them.
Xerxes get back behind the line, Arwia shouted. Im about to cast!
Chapter 66: Casualties (1)
Chapter 66: Casualties (1)
Xerxes bounded back to the line of troops.
At the same time, Arwia filled her palm with purple sand.
In the past, Xerxes would have had trouble identifying the specificponent she used. But in his months of study, he had crammed such information into his brain. The purplish substance was murex whorl sand. Casting Stronghold Deflection would drain Arwia of five times the amount of mm he would spend to cast Singr Lethality, but not more than half of what he needed for Minor Augmentation. What was more, the spell wouldst for four minutes.
Arwia stared at her palm as she traced the Nasaru Sanum rune. Then, mm exploded, rushing out and forming a shimmering blue wall that spread out into a dome covering the entire camp.
The smaller many-handed Abhorrent were already smacking into the transparent barrier. And though Xerxes couldnt quite see the base of the shield on the far side of the camp, he knew the rat-like Abhorrent were doing the same thing over there.
Some dozens of cubits away in the middle of the camp, Gandash shouted, First Lieutenants and Sergeants, to me!
Trying to flick some of the gore off his de, Xerxes hurried across the camp. From the troop line on the mound, Jad joined him, along with Sergeants Stratos and Vasilios. The two other first lieutenants were Dasi and Kishar, who approached with their respective Sergeants, Babati and r.
As they gathered, Gandash said, We have less than three minutes with the shield.
Arwia can extend the time, Jad pointed out.
True. But the Abhorrent arent going away. If Arwia keeps casting Stronghold Deflection over and over, shell drain herself within less than forty-five minutes. So we have to decide. Stand our ground? Or form up and fight our way back to the road? ording to Enusat, there are a lot of rats up there. We dont know how many of the many-handed there are. I want opinions.
Stand and fight, Stratos said.
Agreed, Vasilios added. We stand a better chance with shields up and the mages casting spells.
Xerxes had to agree. He wasnt looking forward to more fighting with monsters, but in this case there didnt seem to be any other choice.
Our position is bad, said Jad. The Tower teau is only half a league down the road. It has a single narrow path to the top. Much easier to defend.
Its the getting there that would be the problem, Sergeant Vasilios said. Half a league with Abhorrent harrying us the entire time? Wed lose a lot more men than if we stayed put.
Gandash looked at the eight officers. Any other suggestions?
Not a suggestion, Kishar said, but a question. If we stay here, how do we fight the rats? We had enough troublest time, and the big one from earlier was bad news.
Gandash thought for a moment. Units Six and Seven form a line against the rats. I want the heavy cavalry to join them, unmounted. For the time being, Units Eleven to Thirteen are going to fight as infantry. Got that, Sergeant Babati? Dasi?
Got it, sir, the sergeant replied.
Dasi echoed his words.
From the mound, Arwia shouted, Two minutes on the spell!
Sergeant Vasilios, Gandash continued, I want all the light infantry focused on the rats. Take out as many on the cliff as possible. Kishar. r. You and the light cavalry will stay in reserve and wait for orders.
Xerxes, you and the other Asgagu mages need to focus on taking out therger Abhorrent. Have the Btu mages split up evenly and be ready for healing.
Kat can cast Slow Death, Xerxes noted.
I know. At four times the mm cost. Id rather she conserve her resources for healing. Dasi, you and Enusat use your judgment. Dont cast Sinitu spells unless it''s necessary. The rest of us, the Buhhu, Nasaru, and Hasasu mages, will stay in reserve. Kishar, you notify the Hasasu mages. Jad, you give the orders to the Nasarus. Ill talk to Laxu.
One minute! Arwia shouted.
We need more time, Gandash shouted back. Cast again.
Yes, sir.
Turning his attention back to the officers, Gandash said, Everyone understand? Good. Now go!
Xerxes raced to inform all of the Asgagu and Btu mages of the orders. Around him, the camp surged with organized chaos as troops shifted positions and the front-line mages got ready forbat.
From the mound, they could see hundreds of the many-handed Abhorrent gathering beyond the shield. And there were two of therge variety. He looked over his shoulder to the cliff. There were now four of therge rat-like ones.
He wasnt sure which were worse.
Kash, you handle the big ones here, alright?
Sure.
Ill tell the same to Teucer. Kuri and I will take on the rats.
The four minutes Arwia added to the dome-like shield sped by in what seemed like seconds.
We have superior weapons! Gandash shouted. Superior spells. Superior understanding of tactics. We have every advantage. WIPE THEM OUT!
He shouted hisst sentence as Arwias shield flickered out of existence. Xerxes kept his eyes locked on one of therge rat Abhorrent atop the cliff. Standing next to him, only a few cubits away, was Kuri from Al-Ga.
Remember, Xerxes said, try to take them out fast.
Kuri ran his hand across his buzzed pate and then put it on hisponent pouch. I know. Im going for decapitations.
Good.
The Abhorrent surged forward.
Xerxes ignored the ground-level fighting as he watched therge monsters above. Seconds passed, and he gripped the hilt of his sword. He nced down at the line defending against the smaller rats. The soldiers were holding strong, but the hundreds upon hundreds of vicious rodent-like Abhorrent were already going wild.
He looked back up. One of the giant rats stepped forward, jumped, then dropped toward the field of battle. The other three followed.
Lets do it, Xerxes said.
Yeah, Kuri replied.
Chapter 66: Casualties (2)
Chapter 66: Casualties (2)
Xerxes ran forward with his sword ready. For the time being, he didnt worry about spellcasting. Gandash had mentioned conserving mm, and given the number of opponents, Xerxes didnt want to just burn through his stockpile.
Next to him, he saw that Kuri was taking the opposite approach, and was already digging into hisponent pouch.
The first of the giant rats barrelled into the line of heavy infantry from Unit Six. They held strong, pushing back against the monstrous thing. It snarled, grabbed a shield and yanked it out of the hands of the hapless private.
Then Xerxes was there; he kicked the thing, shoving it back, then ducked a swipe of its wed hand. He shed down with the Wrath strike, only catching a bit of the rats fur. He shed back up. Missed.
Shouting and screaming surrounded him. In his peripheral vision, he saw soldiers stabbing and crushing the rats. His focus remained on the hulking beast who was now crouching down on all fours as if to pounce on him.
He switched to the Reaping guard.
The thing jumped. He stabbed.
The tip of the sword sliced right through the giant rats mouth into its gut. However, it didnte close to killing it. In fact, when its jaws mped down, it almost got Xerxes'' hand with its teeth.
Then its pale, wed hands mped onto the quillons and it tried to push itself off the sword.
Nope, Xerxes growled. He twisted the sword, then wrenched it up. The rat shrieked, twitched, and spasmed. He pulled harder. It writhed.
Then his sword squelched out of the top of the thing in a fountain of blood. He didnt look down at the half-bifurcated corpse. Smaller rat Abhorrent had already swarmed over it and were snapping at his feet. He stabbed one, shed another in half, and kicked a third.
To the right, Kuri tangled with one of the hulking rats. Both of his hands were burning in Double Lethality, and he seemed to be holding his own.
Where are the others?
He looked left.
Fuck.
A gigantic rat had knocked down two soldiers, punching a hole in the line. Xerxes jumped toward it.
Hey! he shouted, lifting his sword as he closed in.
It opened its mouth, and he assumed it was going to howl or lunge to bite him.
It vomited.
Pink liquid erupted from the things throat like sewage water from a broken pipe. Filled with maroon-colored chunks of what might have been half-digested flesh, as well as clumps of hair and bits of bone, it stank far worse than the monsters alone.
Xerxes skidded to a halt and jumped to avoid the st of foul liquid.
Some of the soldiers in the line werent as lucky. Their shields and armor hissed and smoked as the liquid sshed on them. The ground around them melted slowly. Some of the smaller rats that got caught up in the burst screamed as they dissolved into piles of sludge.
The corrosive vomit seeped to the soldiers skin as well. They wailed.
Xerxes didnt ponder the situation as the huge rat turned and prepared to lunge.
He got his sword into the Reaping guard, and stabbed out like before, just as the gigantic rodent jumped toward him. This time, his aim wasnt as good. His sword tip hit the things shoulder, and cut into its flesh but didnt pierce it through.
Then the rat was on him, swiping at him with jagged ws. His sword was pinned beneath the thing, so he let go of the hilt and shoved the creatures chest. It flew off him, rolling over onto all fours. Before he could get to his own feet, it was on him again. He kneed it. Shoved it.
It fell off.
He got onto a knee.
White light shone as Kuri lunged in from the side and buried a burning hand into the things side. It shrieked and rolled away from him, but Kuri didnt let it get away. Hitting it on top of the head with a hammer fist that melted bone, he killed it.
Thanks, Xerxes said, getting up and grabbing his sword.
Isnt there one more? Kuri asked.
Xerxes scanned the area. There.
Ity still, peppered with arrows and at least three javelins.
There were still more smaller rat Abhorrent to deal with. Xerxes and Kuri both fell back into the line and helped.
The small ones werent to be taken lightly. But they were nothing like the big version.
Clearing the horde took another twenty minutes of fighting.
It was only when things went silent that Xerxes took the time to examine his wounds. He had some pretty bad scratches dug into his arm and shoulder. Blood soaked his garments.
He still didnt feel the pain.
On the other side of the camp, the soldiers on the mound had held their position. All the many-handed Abhorrent were dispatched.
Gandash ordered the surgeons and the Btu mages to see to all the wounded.
Overall, the fight had gone well. There were casualties, most of which were easily tended to.
However, some soldiers had been unlucky enough to receive mortal wounds when the healers werent nearby.
One heavy infantry from Kashtiliashs unit. Two from Teucers. Two heavy cavalry from Dasis unit. And three heavy cavalry from Enusats unit.
Kashtiliash had nearly been strangled to death, and Teucer had been knocked unconscious, during which time he suffered some deep cuts.
Arwia was dead. Some of the many-handed Abhorrent had broken through the line, and one of them got to her in the chaos. Two of its hands were still wrapped around her throat, even after the monster lost its own life.
The death of a mage cast a pall over thepany. Xerxes heart felt empty, and the other mages eyes looked haunted. Arwia was one of the smart kids, and a High Seer. But she was gone.
Gandash gnashed his teeth, though Xerxes suspected he was angry at himself, not the soldiers or officers. Xerxes kept finding his eyes drawn to Arwia, where theyd lined her corpse up with the other fallen. Dammit. Dammit!
The surgeon who examined Xerxes wounds made a decision quickly.
You need healing, she said. Go to Lieutenant Katayoun over there.
There were two ahead of him to receive healing from Katayoun. When it was his turn, she examined him.
Looks like it hurts, she said. She looked into his eyes, and he saw concern in her expression.
Im fine. And that was what he kept telling himself. Over and over again.
Chapter 67: Making Haste (1)
Chapter 67: Making Haste (1)
Gandash sent out scouts. Not the Unsighted, as he feared the possibility of Abhorrent lurking in the darkness. Instead, he sent the two Sinitu mages, Enusat and Dasi, both of them in animal forms that would facilitate stealthy movement.
Meanwhile, at the same time as the bandaging and healing were going on, Gandash had them break camp.
After all the time we spent digging that stupid trench? Jad grumbled.
Probably saved our life, Kashtiliash said.
Yeah yeah. We shouldve just kept going to the Tower teau like I said.
Then they wouldnt have caught us on the road, Teucer said. Even moving fast, wed have been going an hour after sunfall to get there.
Not necessarily.
The scouts took their time.
When they returned, they reported to Gandash, so Xerxes had no idea about the situation. However, only minutester, word spread that they were leaving post haste.
They moved at top speed.
The foot soldiers moved at a fast run, with wagons and pack animals alike pushed to the limit. It was a pace that could only be maintained for a very short time.
Back on the road, Xerxes'' heart pounded. Were there more Abhorrent out there? The things were stronger and faster than humans, so if they wanted to ambush thepany, they could do so with ease.
About half an hourter, they reached Tower teau.
The pathway leading to the top was indeed narrow, which slowed down the progress. Gandash had the non-soldiers go first, panting for breath from the sustained run. Then the light infantry, who took positions on the cliffs above. Then the light cavalry, then the heavy cavalry. The heavy infantry werest in line.
No dys. No incidents.
No Abhorrent.
However, they werent alone on the clifftop. There were two other small camps of travelers, who were very surprised when a force of armed soldiers and mages appeared out of the darkness of night.
Like usual, the Humusi Swordmasters set up their tents near each other. The night was cold, and patchy clouds hinted at rain.
As Enusat unfolded his tent canvas, he said, Were safe. As long as there arent any flying Abhorrent.
Xerxes looked to the cloud sky. Flying Abhorrent werent asmon as the terrestrial variety, but they did exist. There just werent any of them out tonight.
**
Gandash led the morning prayer. He danced around using the Pontifarchs name, nor did he mention the Monad. Xerxes wasnt sure if anyone else noticed.
After the prayer and breakfast, Gandash called the First Sergeants and Lieutenants for another meeting.
Eleven dead so far, he said. Its not how I envisioned things ying out before we even reach our destination. That said, everyone fought wellst night.
Thank you, sir, Sergeant Stratos said. I take it were continuing on our way, not digging in?
Yes, he told them. The mission orders made it clear that nothing short of devastating casualties or a full-scale Abhorrent invasion would justify returning to the Gateway. And even then, I would have to open the secret mission orders before making the final decision.
Last night doesnt count? asked Kishar.
No. There was a meteor shower of what was likely hundreds of meteors. But thats it. I wouldnt be surprised if we wiped out all the ones thatnded in the area.
Captain, Xerxes said, theres something else to consider.
Whats that?
I dont know about everybody else, but you and I both saw how the invasion started on Mannemid. One meteor here and there. Then a handful in waves. Finally, a big one. What if the same thing is going on? What ifst night was only the opening gambit of an invasion?
Silence filled the tent.
Finally, Gandash said, Its not out of the realm of possibility. But for now, the mission is the most important thing. I have a very small stock of Concentrated Mm Pills, but I want to save them for emergencies. I want an assessment of everyones mm levels. Report to me within the hour.
In addition to that, spread word that well be leaving at first light. We still have about a week before we can get to Puabi. Every bit of time counts.
As the First Lieutenant of heavy infantry, Xerxes had the most mages to check in with. They included Kashtiliash, Kuri, Ningal, Teucer, and Katayoun. He saved Katayoun forst.
Kashtiliash, having only cast a few spells during the fighting, was close to full. Kuri was in the same position. Teucer was one of the mages who hadnt reached the High Seer level before the mission. As a result, his maximum capacity was much lower. Even worse, he hadnt maxed out before leaving. After casting Singr Lethality during the fighting, he had the lowest mm levels of all the Asgagu mages.
The remaining mages assigned to heavy infantry units were Katayoun and Ningal, both of whom were Btu.
Ningal was another who hadnt reached High Seer. After casting five healing spells the night before, she was at around the same level as Teucer in terms of stockpiled mm.
Katayoun had taken the lead in the previous nights healing activities, and had cast Minor Restoration ten times. In addition to the other instances of spellcasting during the journey, she was approaching the point of being half empty. It was the same with Xerxes himself.
In the back of his mind, it wasnt lost on him that every spell cast caused dys in progress in terms of his magic. It was the same with all the mages. But what else could be done?
After conferring with Katayoun about mm levels, he looked around at the buzzing camp.
Kat, he said.
Yeah?
What can I do? To make things okay between us?
She looked away, and though she put her hand over her mouth, he caught the faint hint of a wistful smile. Whats done is done, she said. Lets just get through this mission alive.
That sounds good to me. So were okay?
She turned back to him. Yeah. Were fine.
He nodded, reached out, and touched her arm. She moved her hand up to his and squeezed. After that, he hurried back to Gandash to report the condition of the Asgagu and Btu mages, then tended to the general duties of preparing for travel.
Chapter 67: Making Haste (2)
Chapter 67: Making Haste (2)
Morale was mixed. None of the soldiers who had fallen in the night battle had been from Unit One. However, after weeks on the road, Xerxes was at least familiar with their names and faces. It made his heart heavy.
And then there was Arwia. At a certain point, he pushed thoughts of her into the same location as his memories of Bel.
Come morning, Gandash set a pace that bordered on grueling. There was a delicate bnce to it. He wanted speed, there was only so much the animals and foot soldiers could take. The overcast conditions made it slightly easier, as they didnt have to worry about baking in the sun.
The light infantry scouts earned their pay, as they went as far north, south, east, and west as they could.
All reports indicated that there was no Abhorrent activity. Thus, when they made camp that night next to a river, Gandash declined to entrench. Instead, he had a watchtower constructed and also posted double the normal sentries.
Xerxes ate his evening meal with Katayoun instead of the Swordmasters. Given the crowded nature of the camp, there wasnt time for anything other than light chatting. But it was nice to have things smoothed out with her.
He fell asleep wondering if another meteor shower would hit.
It didnt.
Until the following night.
They were five days out from Puabi when the first falling star appeared.
It happened in the early morning when the light of the sun had just begun to crawl up and rece the darkness. Xerxes didnt see it, as he was asleep.
But as more meteors fell, the camp came alive. Fully an hour before the sleepers would normally waken, every single Sighted and Unsighted was out and looking up into the sky. It wasnt a deluge. More like one meteor every minute or two. For the most part, they seemed to originate in the same general part of the sky. And while most flew over thepany and toward the north, there were some that went in different directions.
Xerxes thought back to Mannemid. Ligish Castle. Asnu Gorge. The battle at the capital.
Is this really happening? Katayoun said.
He turned to find her standing next to him. He looked back up. It is. The question is when it will stop. Id guess there arent as many as the other night.
Im thinking of a different question, Katayoun replied.
Oh?
Is it just here on Jehannemid? Or back home, too?
Xerxes felt a chill. He hadnt even considered the possibility. Other than the people around him, everyone hed grown up with, and everyone he cared about, was back on Mannemid. His parents. Ahassy. Gandashs family. And others who, though he wasnt extremely close with, he would consider important. Captain Ishki. Sergeant Tamharu.
He gritted his teeth and forced them out of his mind. Worrying wouldnt change a thing.
He found himself holding Katayouns hand for several more minutes until the call went out to break camp.
Wed better not be continuing, Enusat said. If we do, well get ambushed, I guarantee it. And if that appens, Im shapeshifting into a cheetah and running back ome.
We should go back to the Tower teau, Jad said, folding up his tent.
Kash snorted. Why? Wed get stuck. Better get behind some city walls.
I have to agree, Xerxes said. Walls wont stop meteors, or the big Abhorrent, but theyre better than piles of dirt.
We should go back because its closer to the teau than the city, Enusat said. If Randy Gandy is as smart of a strategizer as e wants everyone to think, then ell head us back to where we can defend ourselves.
It seemed Enusat and Jad werent the only ones who wanted to go back to the teau. Xerxes heard whispers from some of the other mages to the same effect.
However, Gandash didnt have them retrace their steps. Instead, he wanted to push to Puabi.
The meteor showers continued as they moved as quickly as possible toward the city.
The first Abhorrent attacked before the lunch hour. It wasrge, almost like a rhino, except covered with feathers and eye stalks.
It charged at them across an open expanse of tnd, and as such, the light cavalry managed to take it down before it became a threat.
A smaller group of cat-like creatures fell upon them as they stopped briefly to eat.
There were minor injuries.
Everyone was on edge. However, the meteor showers stopped, bringing at least a tiny sense of relief.
Were sitting ducks, Jad said. The Abhorrent can sense our mm. And we have High Seers now. Lots.
Might as well soak ourselves in chum and jump into a shark pool, Enusat said.
It wasnt likely. As theyd learned from Mystic Rabya, there was a limit the distances Abhorrent could sense mm. But Kashtiliash didnt say anything, nor did Xerxes.
The next few hours went well. Then Abhorrent that looked like wolves bore down on them. Except, these wolves had neither fur nor skin, just muscles that glistened with blood, and they stank like rotting meat. They came seemingly out of nowhere as thepany passed over a ridge.
The things fell as other Abhorrent spawn did, but the manner of their attack, and the configuration of the line of troops, lead to casualties.
Unit One lost their first soldier, Vadamerca, the woman with theplexion of oak. A wolf got to her throat, and there was never a chance for the Btu mages to heal her.
There were other serious injuries, but after the wolves were put down, Katayoun and Kishar tended to them.
As the sky turned dark, they realized they had a serious problem. There was no defensible location in which to camp.
Scouts reported finding a nearby hill, and Gandash pushed them off the road to find it. There, they entrenched, taking a full two hours to dig a pit and erect a mound, then fortify the earth with wooden stakes. Gandash again ordered the watchtower built.
They settled in to eat dinner, and then began what was surely going to be the longest night any of them had experienced in a long time.
Chapter 68: The Long Night (1)
Chapter 68: The Long Night (1)
As was standard military practice, even on Mannemid, the mages were exempt from guard duty. But that night, Xerxes figured he might as well have volunteered to stand guard. He couldnt sleep.
For the two hours or so, hey in his tent feeling hot and ufortable. Despite the threat of rain, about half thepany wasnt even using tents, and now he wished hed done the same. All the while, he wondered when the Abhorrent would attack. Not if they would attack. When. That was how these situations always yed out, wasnt it?
At one point, he fell asleep only to jerk out of slumber when he heard shouting. Grabbing his longsword, he lurched out of his tent expecting to see fire and blood. But after looking around wildly, he realized things were too calm for an attack. He peered into the sky, expecting to see streaks of light through the patchy clouds. He saw none.
Apparently, a tent among the Unsighted officers had copsed.
He wasnt the only one who had jumped out ready for a fight. Half the mages were either out of their tents, or sticking their heads out of the ps. Numerous officers and dozens of soldiers were standing with shields in hands and weapons at the ready.
After confirming there was no situation, Xerxes crawled back into his tent and closed his eyes. Every noise in the camp made him more alert. After another hour or two, he gave up trying to sleep and walked in the direction of the watchtower.
There was a Unit One soldier at the bottom of the tower, a burly fellow with curly hair. He nodded in greeting and said, First Lieutenant.
Private Mauwa, Xerxes said in response. Mind if I go up and have a look around?
Go right on ahead. Trouble sleeping?
Yeah. He put his hand on the makeshiftdder and started climbing.
There were two soldiers in the watchtower, both from Unit Fourteen.
Evening, First Lieutenant, one of them said as he crawled onto the tform. Or rather, gmorning.
Its past midnight already? he said. Figures. Couldnt sleep.
The other soldier chuckled. Youre not the only one.
Xerxes scanned the camp, and could see what the soldier meant. There was a lot more movement than was to be expected from a midnight camp. More people about. Groups huddled around campfires when they would normally be sleeping.
He looked up. As before, the sky was clear of any streaks of light.
Xerxes leaned on the railing and peered out at thends beyond the camp. The moon and stars provided some illumination, but not much, especially given the clouds. Xerxes felt a wave of deja vu. Why did this feel so familiar?
Then he ced it. He felt the same way he did back on Mannemid, when he went out onto the battlements to look at the city, only to catch sight of the enormous meteor slowly tumbling from the sky.
He looked for the third time.
There was no massive, ming rock falling toward them.
After about ten minutes in the watchtower, his eyes started feeling prickly, so he climbed back down and tried to sleep again.
Just as exhaustion was about to drag him into slumber, he heard a noise. He opened his eyes. Had someone just shouted?
He stuck his head out of the tent.
Nothing.
Hey back down. This time, sleep started to take him within only a few minutes. Until he heard another sound. Or at least, he thought he did. Instead of looking outside the tent, he just remained in ce.
If theres an attack, theyll sound the rm.
He was dreaming. He and Katayoun were strolling through Harborview in the capital on Mannemid. He took her to Shellburnne to buy a bowl of fish soup, the kind he loved when he was a kid. But instead of the olddy who sold the soup, it was Archon Shabadras, cloaked and masked. He started talking, but his voice was drowned out by the sound of a ringing bell.
Xerxes eyes snapped open. It was still dark.
He heard a sound. A shout?
Then the ng of a bell.
More shouting.
He was already jumping out into the open, sword in hand.
Soldiers and mages alike were tumbling from tents. Where were the Abhorrent?
He didnt see any.
Enemy to the north! came a shout from the watchtower.
Units One, Two, Three, and Seven to the north mound, Gandash yelled. He continued shouting more orders. Xerxes, being the First Lieutenant of Unit One, was already running to the north.
A few Unsighted troops were there when he arrived. He climbed the dirt and looked past the wooden stakes.
Fuck, a soldier next to him muttered.
What looked to be a few hundred pale, spider-like Abhorrent scuttled across thendscape in their direction. He identified only four or fiverge ones with maroon faces.
Ive fought this kind before, Xerxes said. They die easily.
Javelins ready, shouted Sergeant Rostam of Unit Seven.
Shields up and spears forward, Sergeant Stratos yelled.
Xerxes wished he could do more. But the spells he knew rted to short-range meleebat only. It wasnt until the Mystic Level that Asgagu mages could cast augmentations that didnt require a physical connection. For instance, arrows or javelins. Neither Seers nor High Seers were much help when it came to rangedbat.
Regardless, given his experience fighting this spider-like Abhorrent, he wasnt very worried about them. What did worry him was that these were mere spawns. Would they be apanied by juveniles? Given how fast the juveniles were, if they joined the fight, they could be on the troops before anyone had any idea what was happening.
Javelins and arrows speared the first of the wave of spidery foes. After that, the sharpened wooden stakes did their job, further impeding the monsters advance.
The entire time, Xerxes waited with his sword on his shoulder and hisponent pouch ready.
A bell pierced the night, followed by a shout from the watchtower. Abhorrent to the west!
Chapter 68: The Long Night (2)
Chapter 68: The Long Night (2)
Xerxes looked in that direction, but didnt have a good angle of view.
Here theye, someone said a few cubits away.
One of the spider-like Abhorrent, the lower-level kind without the maroon face, managed to get past the wooden stakes. A soldier impaled it with a spear.
Another came over, to be sliced in half with a sword. A putrid odor rose up.
Far in the distance, something caught Xerxes eye. A topless woman.
Shit, he thought. Squinting, he verified that it was a pale-skinned woman with long white hair, and the lower body of a many-legged spider. Whats she doing? Just standing there?
His eyes shifted back and forth as he looked for more. So far, there was only one, and she was indeed just standing there.
An Abhorrent spawn lunged at him. He shed it in half. Another followed. It suffered the same fate.
Then the fighting began in earnest.
The spawn didnt stoping. Xerxes de was ck with gore, and in the brief seconds of breathing time he asionally found, he looked left and right at the soldiers on the mound, and all were in simr situations.
However, there hadnt been any casualties yet.
What was more, he hadnt cast a single spell.
He heard screaming to the west, but the angle of view was still bad, making it impossible to tell what was happening.
Another spawn leaped at him. He skewered it and pushed it off his de with his foot.
Then a white streak shot at him, followed by another, and another.
Shes here. The juvenile.
He got his sword up to knock the first tentacr strand away. The rest he managed to avoid by lunging backward a step. The fingers of the juvenile Abhorrent shifted directions and shot toward him again. More clever dodging and sword usage kept him safe.
On the third pass, he tried to grab some of them, and managed to snag one with his left hand. But it wasnt enough to do anything. He chopped it off with his sword and opened his fingers before the severed part turned into sticky liquid.
Why are you hiding? he growled.
The thing was obviously hesitating beyond the wooden stakes.
The whipping fingers didnte for him again. Instead, they shot to the side toward a Unit One soldier named Shuni.
Watch out! Xerxes yelled, swinging his longsword wildly to try to sever the fingers. They were too far away.
Shunis armor deflected four of the fingers. The fifth stabbed his neck. He dropped to his knees, his weapon tumbling from his hand as he put pressure on the wound. Blood oozed out anyway.
Healer! Xerxes yelled, ncing back at the camp. He saw several units standing by in reserve. And also Katayoun, hovering over a body while casting a spell. She looked up in response to Xerxes shout.
Neck wound! he yelled. Shuni tipped over and fell onto his side.
Tentacr strands shot toward another soldier in the line.
No you dont, Xerxes growled. Taking three steps forward, he leaped onto one of the wooden stakes, then jumped out, holding his sword out in front of him. The juvenile Abhorrent looked up, her eyes ck, her teeth gleaming, her breasts perfect yet sickly with their maggot-like coloring.
As he flew through the air, spinning his sword toward her, she retracted her fingers. The white strands zipped through the air toward him. But not fast enough.
She leaned frantically to the side, yet his sword still met flesh, stabbing into her side. The de hit ribs, then slid off them. Flesh parted, and ck blood sprayed out. But the sword didnt stab into her innards.
Then Xerxes turned his head to the side as he collided with her. His cheek hit her chin. His shoulder, her sr plexus. His sword flew out of his hands.
They fell together, her host of spidery legs iling as he knocked her onto her back.
Her stench clung to his nostrils as he flipped over her and rolled away. She scrambled to right herself, and he lunged toward his sword, which had fallen several cubits away.
As his fingers wrapped around the sword, he saw streaks of white in his peripheral vision. Pain blossomed in his shoulder and thigh. Other tentacr fingers wrapped around him. He swung his sword without thinking about it, and it severed all of them.
The Abhorrent said something in hernguage as her severed fingers retracted, then started to grow again.
However, Xerxes used the momentum hed generated by the wild swing of the sword to lurch forward, bring the sword up, and then sh it down.
Numerous spindly legs flopped to the ground, and the Abhorrent backed up.
He bent his legs and jumped.
The sword stabbed into her belly. She screamed.
He reached out with his free hand, grabbed her shoulder, and shoved at the sword, causing the de to whip to the side within her. It ripped out of her, along with a jumble of internal organs.
Then he brought it back around toward her neck. The de bit into her, but didnt sever her head as hed hoped. Nheless, she fell, bringing him with her.
Theynded in a flop of spider-like legs, blood, and gore.
She was dead.
Trying not to retch, he yanked his de from her neck and got to his feet.
An Abhorrent spawn mmed into him from the side, knocking him down.
He punched it. Twice. Three times. It fell away, and he kicked it, sending it flying several cubits away.
First Lieutenant, Sergeant Stratos yelled. Get back ere. Theres more of em!
Xerxes ran, nted his foot, and jumped. Grabbing the end of one of the wooden stakes, he pulled himself over it andnded on the mound. Then he turned to look back out at the field.
There were four more juvenile Abhorrent like the one hed just killed.
Behind them was a fifth who wasrger than any of the others by twofold.
Chapter 69: It Would Have Been Safer (1)
Chapter 69: It Would Have Been Safer (1)
Based on everything Xerxes had learned about Abhorrent, it seemed likely that this new addition to the battlefield was a stage two juvenile. The upside was that she would still have only a single magical power. The downside was that she would be faster, stronger, and more durable than her lesser brethren.
She looked simr to the other female Abhorrent, in that she had sickly white skin, long white hair, and a perfectly shaped upper torso. Unlike the smaller version that walked about on countless spidery legs, she had human legs. In fact, from a distance, she looked almost like a human. However, the countless spidery legs were still present. They hung from her hips like a living skirt, swaying and twisting like bizarre worms.
Xerxes nced up and down the dirt mound. There were still hordes of spawn shing with the troops who held the line.
In terms of mages, it wasnt lost on Xerxes that Gandash had assigned all of the Asgagu mages to the north. Further down the line was Kashtiliash with Unit Two and then Kuri with Unit Three. At the far end, Laxu was the only non-Asgagu mage; he was a Buhhu Seer. His view of the west part of the camp made it impossible to see how things were going there.
He looked back out at the enemy.
The juveniles were zooming across the battlefield toward them.
He gripped his sword. A stage two juvenile that was more than twice his own size was nothing to take lightly. In fact, it could kill him with a single well-ced blow. That wasnt to mention its magic. Would it have the same abilities as its lesser version? Tentacle-like fingers?
His mind flitted through various options from Mystic Rabyas sses. Should he have Unsighted troops harry the thing? Or team up with another mage?
About fifteen cubits away, the huge Abhorrent nted her feet and jumped.
Fall back, Xerxes yelled, and he jabbed his hand into hisponent pouch.
She sailed up in an arc that was obviously going to bring her crashing down right on the mound.
Xerxes started tracing the Asgagu Sebum rune into the stibnite talc, flicking his finger as fast as he dared.
The gigantic Abhorrent mmed into the defensive mound just past the wooden stakes. Dirt exploded in all directions, and her immense size and weight, coupled with her momentum, caused the structure to crumble.
Xerxes found himself sliding backward as he finished the spell.
His sword glowed with bright light as he looked up at the horrifying woman.
For a moment, his chest felt so tight that he didnt think he could move.
Grk bak losh, mm-oth? the massive woman said. It sounded like a question. She lifted her hands, to do what, he wasnt sure.
His heart pounded. He took in a breath. Fuck you, he said. He ran forward with his sword held aloft.
The woman flicked her fingers, and instead of five tentacle-like streaks of light, dozens of them shot forth.
Xerxes spun his sword out, shing a host of them out of existence. But however many he severed, there were more than he didnt sever.
Two or three stabbed into fleshy parts of his legs and arms. One hit his side. More of them wrapped around him. It was only by some miracle that he kept a grip on his sword.
Before he could react, he was being pulled in the air toward her face. The pain from the wounds was already a dull ache. He jerked against the tentacles that bound him, but they held tight.
Ya shlf, mm-oth, she said, grinning.
He tried to twist his wrist to somehow get his sword in the position to sever some of the bonds. He failed.
A shout reached his ears. His eyes shifted, and he saw Kashtiliash bellowing as he ran across the dirt, both hands burning with white light.
The gigantic Abhorrent woman turned her head and saw the same thing.
Keeping her grip on Xerxes, she spun on the balls of her feet, took a step forward, andunched a kick at Kashtiliash. The bearded mage dove to the side at just the right time, and the foot sailed past him.
In that moment, Xerxes felt some of the tentacles loosen around him. He jerked his sword arm, wrenching it free. He swung his sword, severing numerous tentacles. The Abhorrent woman spat a curse in her disgustingnguage. A few of the tentacles maintained their grip on him, but they werent strong enough to hold him. He fell about five cubits, hitting the ground hard on his shoulder.
He knew that every second counted, so before he could even get onto his feet, he swung his sword at what was nearest: the Abhorrent womans ankle.
The burning de bit so cleanly through her flesh, muscle, and bone, that he felt no resistance. Screaming discordantly, she dropped down to one knee, leaving her severed foot in ce slightly behind her.
He stabbed the sword up. It pierced her side, driving up into her torso.
At the same time, he heard Kashtiliash roar as he mmed into the woman from the side, both of his fists burning as he pummeled her, punching burning holes into her shoulder and torso.
Xerxes heaved himself up and stabbed again.
White tentacles hit Kashtiliash, stabbing into him and wrapping him up before tossing him to the side.
The woman swept a host of tentacr fingers at Xerxes like a whip, knocking his feet out from under him. Then she grabbed him. Not with magically extended fingers, but with her ordinary, flesh-and-blood hands. Shetched onto his forearm, her fingers digging into him, until he screamed as they pierced his skin. He dropped his sword.
She pulled him toward her with such force that he felt searing pain in his shoulder as it was dislocated.
Meanwhile, she pulled back her free hand, her fingers twisted into vicious ws. He thought back to his first encounter with an Abhorrent, and how the juvenile had stabbed her hand into the torso of poor Rihan.
Im going to die. She was going to rip into him and grab his chambers of energy, then toss him aside to bleed to death.
Chapter 69: It Would Have Been Safer (2)
Chapter 69: It Would Have Been Safer (2)
Bitch! someone yelled. Katayoun, her hand emanating darkness. She pped her hand onto the Abhorrent womans shoulder before the hulking woman knew what was happening.
Kuri was there, burning hands punching more holes into the Abhorrent.
The woman dropped Xerxes, but this time he was ready, andnded on his feet. His right arm was useless at the moment, but the fight wasnt over. He grabbed his sword. Having dropped it, the Minor Augmentation spell had ended, but that didnt mean the weapon was any less sharp.
With a shout, he jumped forward and stabbed the giant woman again in the back.
Kuri hit her again and again from the other side.
Kashtiliash appeared, battering her even more.
And all the while, Katayouns Slow Death spell ate at the womans life force.
She iled and screamed. She grabbed Kuri and tossed him away. At one point, she even tried to flee, but they kept her pinned in ce.
Then the monster fell, dead.
Panting, Xerxes stabbed his sword into the ground and put his free hand on his aching shoulder.
Then, cool relief filled him as Katyoun cast Minor Restoration. The spell even sucked his shoulder back into ce, causing a spasm of pain that disappeared as soon as he felt it.
All good? Katayoun asked.
Good. He flexed his shoulder and grabbed his sword again.
Katayoun left to do other healing.
There was more fighting after that. The smaller juveniles werent as intimidating as therger one that had just fallen, but they were still deadly. Xerxes saw more Unsighted soldiers fall. And that wasnt to mention the dozens upon dozens of spawn.
He wasnt sure how long the fightingsted. It seemed like hours, but was only a few minutes.
At one point, he stabbed his gore-encrusted longsword into a stage one spawn, impaling it on the ground before crushing it with his boot. Then he looked for the next monster to kill, only to find none. The fight was over.
The defensive mound was covered with Abhorrent corpses. The huge juvenile stilly there, surrounded by a pond of ck liquid.
Everything stank of sulfur, honey, and an acridness that caused the nose to twitch..
Despite the best efforts of the Btu mages, there were many, many fatalities. With a single nce, Xerxes saw at least a dozen soldiers lying unmoving on the ground.
As his eyes flitted from one to the next, he started looking for mages. He saw Kashtiliash nearby, sitting cross-legged with his sword on the ground in front of him. The bearded mage was breathing hard but didnt look hurt.
Kuri, blood-spattered but none worse for the wear, was on the mound looking out at thend beyond.
Katayoun was doing more healing.
Gandy, he thought. He didnt see his friend at first. But before even walking about, he heard him shouting in the distance. That caused him to breathe a sigh of relief. What about Jad and Enusat? Teucer?
In fact, he was worried about all the mages.
Dragging his sword behind him, he started walking to the west side of the camp. As he did, he saw pudgy Tizqar sitting on a wagon, his shoulder slumped. On the mound, he spotted Sergeants Stratos and Arda. They stood over the body of another sergeant. Xerxes recognized the officer. Rostam from Unit Seven.
He kept walking.
As he got closer to the west-side mound, he saw that the forces here had been fighting a mix of the spider-like Abhorrent and the many-armed ones.
He saw Ningal, her skinny arms caked with blood as she cast a healing spell on Teucer.
There were less dead on this side.
He heard the sound of wailing, very faint.
He still hadnt spotted Jad and Enusat. And who else? he thought. Dasi. Ningummunu. Kishar. Atra-Hasis.
As he neared Ningal, he said, Have you seen Jad or Enusat?
The skinny mage looked up at him, and her cheeks were a mix of blood and the rivulets left by tears. And her expression made him flinch. It contained horror, grief, and helplessness.
She opened her mouth to respond to his question but didnt say anything. She nodded her head outward at the western defensive mound.
Theyre past the mound? he asked. Why?
Breaking into a trot he closed the distance to the mound, then climbed up the packed earth to the top.
On the other side, he saw Jad and Enusat surrounded by the corpses of numerous Abhorrent. Jad was kneeling, Enusat was on his back.
The short mage was soaked in blood. He had a massive wound on his neck, and one of his legs had been torn off at the knee.
Xerxes gasped, then spun. Ningal, we need a healer
She was looking at him already. And shaking her head.
Ningal, theres still time!
She shook her head again, stood, and started walking back to the center of the camp.
Xerxes ran down the hill.
Jad he said.
The tall mage was holding Enusats hand in his own.
Jad, what? Xerxes didnt finish the question. He saw the tears on Jads face. The blood. Enusats corpse was mangled. His flesh pale and bloodless. His eyes nk. He was dead.
Tears sprang to Xerxes eyes. He had never considered Enusat one of his best friends, but he was a friend nheless. Enusat had taken the fall for him in the early failed mission into the girls dorm. Xerxes had been Enusats wingman on the second disastrous mission. They had sparred together. Eaten together. Joked together.
And they never would again.
He dropped to his knees next to Enusat. Reached out and closed his eyelids.
Jad didnt say anything.
They knelt there for a long time until Sergeant Vasilios appeared. We need to clean up and get moving, he said.
Jad nodded and stood. Xerxes joined him. Vasilios left, and the two of them just stood above Enusat for another minute or so.
I said we should go back to Tower teau, Jad said. It would have been safer.
Xerxes didnt respond.
It would have been safer, Jad repeated, and this time it came out almost like a snarl. Hands in fists, he started walking back to the camp.
Chapter 70: Melam Status (1)
Chapter 70: Mm Status (1)
There was work to do. They buried the dead in shallow graves in a makeshift graveyard. Abhorrent corpses were hauled into piles.
Xerxes was still numb, but was shaken nheless.
Enusat was the only mage that fell. The unit hed been attached to, Unit Twelve, had been devastated. There were only two surviving members, the sergeant, named Ilia, and a private named Yomadan.
Other than Unit Twelve, the highest casualties were in Units Four and Seven, those to which Teucer and Laxu were attached. More than half of the soldiers in each unit had been killed.
Two of the soldiers in Xerxes Unit One had lost their lives.
All other units had lost soldiers except for Unit Five. Katayouns assigned unit. ording to the murmured stories Xerxes heard, some believed it was because of Katayouns skill as a healer. Others imed that it was more the leadership of Sergeant Laz.
Altogether, ck Jackal Company lost forty members in the fighting.
For a long time Xerxes just stared at the grave mounds and thought of the people beneath them. He felt too empty for tears. The loss wasnt as personal as it had been with Bel, Gem, or the soldiers he knew back on Mannemid.
But the Unit One soldiers whod died were men hed shared meals with for weeks on end. And even those from other units were familiar to him. The sheer number of lives lost was.
While they reorganized the camp, Abhorrent attacked twice more, but only in small numbers, and neither resulted in any casualties.
After the bodies were buried, Gandash gave a short speech that Xerxes didnt pay attention to. He just stood in the crowd, held Katayouns hand, and looked at the graves.
The surviving two members of Enusats old unit were absorbed into Unit Thirteen with Tizqar. There were other minor adjustments as well.
As the final preparations were being made to start traveling again, Gandash called the mages together.
I want to know how much mm everyone has, he said. And how many spells you can cast. Well start with me. I still havent cast anything. Ive mastered the Buhhu Sebum rune, allowing me to cast Greater Spawn Duo. But there was never an asion in which two Abhorrent spawn under my control would have made a difference. Lets move on to Unit One, and then go through all the units sequentially. That means youre first, Xerk.
Xerxes knew where he stood with his chambers of energy. Im down to about a quarter capacity. I can cast Minor Augmentation once. And Singr Lethality probably fourteen or fifteen times.
Gandash made a note on a wax pad. Unit Two, Kashtiliash.
Im at three quarters, the bearded mage said. I havent mastered my second rune, so I can only cast Singr Lethality. Maybe thirty times.
Unit Three. Kuri.
Kuri still had blood caked in his buzzed hair. Im at about twenty percent, he said. Just enough for a Minor Augmentation, and not even ten Singr Lethality.
Unit Four. Teucer.
Teucer was only a Seer, which meant his total mm capacity was half that of the High Seers. Im at about half. Ten Singr Lethalities.
That was all of the Asgagu mages in thepany.
Unit Five. Katayoun.
Im down to ten percent or so. I dont have enough for Slow Death. But I do have enough for four or five Minor Restorations.
Gandash exhaled, and there was an apanying round of disconcerted murmuring from the other mages. Katayoun was their only Btu High Seer. In other words, she was the highest level healer they had. And she was almost out of mm.
Unit Six. Ningal.
Ningal was short and skinny, but the blood caked in her hair and sttered all over her clothing made her look more fierce than usual. She was also a Btu mage, but she was only a Seer. Im down to thirty percent. I can cast Minor Restoration six or seven times.
There was more murmuring.
Unit Seven. Laxu.
Laxu was the only other Buhhu mage in thepany, and he was a Seer. Scratching at his long sideburns, he said, Im below half. Not enough for a Spawn Duo, but close. If I focus on meditating for a day and a half, itll put me over the edge.
I remember you were close to max before, Gandash said. You cast Spawn Duo in the fighting?
I did.
Gandash made a note. Unit Eight. Jad.
We need to go back to Tower teau, Jad said. If wed done it before, Enusat would still be alive, plus a lot of good Unsighted soldiers.
Gandash looked up from his wax writing tab. I didnt ask for opinions about what to do next. How much mm do you have?
Fuck that, Jad said. Youre going to get us all killed, Gandash. I refuse
As themanding officer of this
I didnt vote for you, Jad interrupted. None of us did. We were forced
Gandash yelled, This isnt the time and ce for you to
To what, die? Jad shouted, stepping forward with clenched fists.
Xerxes reached out and put a hand on his shoulder. Jad.
Jad brushed Xerxes hand off. No. It needs to be said. Gandash has no idea what hes doing, and hes going to get us all massacred!
This time, Gandash didnt seem inclined to interrupt.
Jad looked around. You all can see it, right? We should have gone back to Tower teau the minute those meteors started falling. Instead, this moron decided to camp on the open road. And thanks to that, my best friend is dead! So I say we relieve him of duty and do something to stay alive. Go back to the teau and wait out the Abhorrent. Then once things calm down, we go back to the Gateway. Whatever ridiculous diplomatic mission were on isnt worth more than our lives!
Silence followed his outburst. Most of the other mages looked down at the ground.
Well? Jad said. Whos with me?
Chapter 70: Melam Status (2)
Chapter 70: Mm Status (2)
Before anyone could respond, Gandash spoke again. Let me make something clear, he said. Im amissioned officer in the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces. And I have orders from High Archon Kingallu himself. Do you know what they say? Gandash reached into his robe and pulled out a leather tube. He popped the lid, pulled out a scroll, and unrolled it. Then he started reading. Under no circumstances are you to abandon the mission, unless theplete loss of thepany is imminent. In the case of extreme developments such as, but not limited to, full-scale war between political factions on Jehannemid, an outright invasion of Abhorrent, natural disaster, et cetera, you will still carry out the mission to the best of your ability.
Gandash re-rolled the scroll and put it back in the tube. Were not professional soldiers. We dont have the military training the Unsighted do, and obviously we have no conditioning. But all of us graduated from the Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military Magic, so we know how to follow our orders. And the orders are clear. We will not be going back to the teau and definitely not the Gateway. At least, not until we see the mission through. Do you know what would happen if I issued orders to do that?
Gandash looked at Jad, who was still standing there with his hands in fists.
Jad didnt answer.
Id be executed. Because it would be treason. So back the fuck down. And by the way, if I hear any more talk from you about abandoning the mission, then in my capacity as amissioned officer, Ill have you executed for treason. Got it?
Jads fists loosened.
Whats more, Gandash continued, the same goes for everybody else. You think I like what happened? Or that I wanted it to happen? Obviously not. But we have a job to do, and were going to do it. We have to get to Puabi as soon as humanly possible. Granted, the situation is bad. We have lots of open territory to cover. But once were behind the city walls, things will be different.
Now. Lieutenant Jad. How much mm do you have, and how many spells can you cast.
A long moment passed in which Xerxes wondered if Jad was going to keep pushing the issue. In the end, he said, Im at a bit less than half. I can cast Personal Deflection four times.
Unit Ten. Atra-Hasis.
The auburn-skinned mage was a Nasaru Seer. A bit higher than half. I can do two Personal Deflections.
Unit Eleven. Dasi.
With Enusat lost, Dasi was now the only Sinitu mage in thepany. Im a bit above half. Either two Major Alterations or three Minor Alterations.
Unit Gandash hesitated very briefly, and was clearly about to say twelve. Except, Unit Twelve no longer existed, nor did the mage attached to it. Unit Thirteen. Tizqar.
Tizqar was a Hasasu Seer. Im almost full, he said. I can cast Base Empathics almost twenty times.
Unit Fourteen. Ningsummunu.
Ningsummunu was also a Hasasu Seer. Same as Tizqar, he said.
Andst, Unit Fifteen. Kishar.
Olive-skinned Kishar, who was Katayouns best friend, was also a Btu healer, but only at the Seer level.
Im almost empty, she said. I dont even have enough for a Minor Restoration.
Fuck, Kuri said. Others muttered simr curses. Xerxes, who himself had been healed on numerous asions thanks to Btu spellcasting, was one of them. As it stood, they only had two healers with enough mm to cast spells, and between them, couldnt even pull off a dozen Minor Restorations.
Gandash took his time saying something else. He just stood there with a thoughtful look on his face for about a minute.
When he broke the silence, he said, Despite the High Archons'' orders, my impression is that they didnt expect us to see any significant action. They only gave me twenty Concentrated Mm Pills. Thats not even enough to get all of us back to full levels of mm. Whats more, I dont want to use them all now. We have a return trip to make after Puabi.
Im going to give four to Katayoun, two to Ningal, and two to Kishar. Thats enough for our healers to rebuild significant stockpiles. Plus it will leave a pill in each of their hands for emergency purposes. In addition, all the Asgagu mages except Kashtiliash will get one pill. They and the heavy cavalry are our primary line of defense, and also our best weapon against the Abhorrent. Lieutenant Kashtiliash, youve done a good job of conserving mm, so for the time being I dont think you need a pill.
Were going to push harder than before. The trip to Puabi should normally take four more days. I want to make it there the day after tomorrow. We can do it, though well have to push harder than weve pushed so far.
Everyones dismissed. We start moving in fifteen minutes.
They traveled hard. The only upside was the leaden sky and theck of sun beating on them. In fact, asional raindrops slipped out of the clouds and plopped down. Even still, the dust of the road seemed grittier and more ufortable than before.
In the long hours on horseback, Xerxes tried not to think about Enusats corpse, but failed. And that got him thinking about Gem and Bel. Eventually, he was wallowing in thoughts of death and loss.
Is it me?Am I some sort of jinx that causes people to die? No, thats stupid.
That night after the entrenchment was done, and dinner was served, he climbed in his tent,y down, and stared at nothing.
Then it hit him. Everything.
All of the loss from Mannemid that hed shoved way, way back into the farthest corners of his mind. Gem and Bel especially. Why did they have to die? He liked them! They were his friends! It wasnt fair.
Hed been d to not think about those things all this time. Now they filled his mind.
Even with eyes closed, he could see the carnage left behind in the wake of the Abhorrent attack. He thought of the countless times hed been injured and left bleeding, even dying, only to be brought back by a spell.
Tears flowed down his temples as hey on his back. He didnt even try to stop them. He took in a shaky breath, then let it out in a whimper that he did his best to keep quiet. He tried to breathe to stop the pain from building up in his chest. The pain built up anyway. The tears flowed. He began to weep, and when he knew he couldnt mask the sound, he buried his face in his pillow.
He curled his legs up and wrapped one arm around them.
Who gave a shit about being abat mage? An officer. Who cared about going to Sin-Amuhhu or anywhere else? He wanted to see his mom and his sister and his dad. He wanted to be home.
He felt a hand on his shoulder and opened his eyes.
Katayoun was kneeling next to him.
He sat up.
It was dark in the tent, but there was enough ambient light for him to see that her eyes were red and her cheeks were puffy. Her hair was a mess.
Is something wrong? he whispered.
She shook her head. I just didnt want to be alone, she replied. She reached out and put her hand on his cheek. Are you okay?
He wanted to say that he was fine. That he was strong. He wanted to be a pir to support her. But his insides were too ragged. I dont know.
He leaned forward and kissed her. She kissed him back.
Chapter 70: Melam Status (3)
Chapter 70: Mm Status (3)
An hourter, theyy together in the tent, their clothes thrown off to the side somewhere. She nestled against him, her face buried against his neck, her hair spilled out over his chest. He held her with one arm.
I can hear your heart beating, she whispered, running a finger round his belly button.
That tickles, he said. Smiling, he reached down to push her hand away.
She smacked his hand away and kept circling his belly button. She kissed his neck. When we get back to Sin-Amuhhu, lets get an apartment.
What?
I heard a rumor. Once were back, and we get paid, its going to be something like two or three hundred shekels. If you and I pool our money, we could afford it.
He thought about it. He and Katayoun, getting a tiny apartment somewhere in Sin-Amuhhu. Living together. Maybe they could have a vegetable garden. Sure. Lets do it.
They whispered into the night. For a short time, they forgot about everything outside the tent. The monsters and the death.
They were happy.
It didnt go unnoticed that Xerxes and Katayoun emerged from the same tent in the morning. They werent the only ones. Ningal and Atra-Hasis had spent the night in each others arms.
Nobody said anything.
Xerxes couldnt keep hold of his bliss upon waking and seeing all the dried blood and grim faces around him. Morale was at rock-bottom. Their mission had been described as an ovend journey and an escort job. Instead, it was turning into a death sentence.
But after the previous night, at least Xerxes wasnt hovering on the brink of despair.
As promised, Gandash pushed them to their limits.
He had Dasi shapeshift into the form of an eagle and fly high into the sky to keep an eye on the surrounding terrain.
It started raining. Not a downpour, just a light drizzle, enough to make the air cool, but not soak them. It felt nice.
The next attack came after the lunch hour. It wasnt as dramatic or shocking as the night-time battle. There were none of therge or massive juveniles.
Instead, it was a horde of the rat-like Abhorrent, intermixed with even smaller, leech-like creatures with wings.
They fell upon thepany without any warning, erupting from the underbrush like bees from a hive.
Five soldiers were dead before thepany as a whole realized what was happening.
It wasplete chaos. No line of shields could stop flying leeches. And the rats seemed smarter than before, squirreling past the feet and legs of the armored heavy infantry to attack easier targets.
Xerxes felt almost useless. Neither his understanding of the Epitome nor his spellcasting could do much against an attack by vermin.
It boiled down to frantically stomping on rodents and pping the flying lumps of wriggling flesh out of the sky.
Within minutes of the opening attack, Xerxes was bleeding from numerous wounds. The flying leeches had circr mouths with razor-sharp teeth that spun as if on ball bearings. They couldnt pierce armor, but they sliced through ordinary cloth with rtive ease.
It took thirty minutes to eradicate enough of the pest-like Abhorrent that the survivors scuttled away into the shadows.
Afterward, thepanys surgeon and others with medical experience bandaged the wounded. As a result, thepany as a whole had to stay in ce on the road for nearly an hour.
The Btu mages were judicious in their healings. As per Gandashs orders, they only cast spells to heal life-threatening wounds. But Xerxes could still see mm flow as Katayoun and the other healers did their work.
Were sitting ducks, Jad muttered. We should be moving.
They have to bandage everybody up, Teucer said. Itd be stupid to waste healer mm on what amounts to some scratches.
True, Kashtiliash said, rubbing his arm where a leech had burrowed into the crook of his elbow.
While they talked, Xerxes kept his eyes on Katayoun, who was working side by side with the surgeon. More than ever, he need to always know where she was.
But that didnt mean he wasnt paying attention to the conversation. Jad wasnt letting go of his anger over Enusats death. Every chance he got, heined about Gandash or tried to subvert his authority.
For the time being, the other mages he shared his resentment with did little more than grunts and nods.
Gandash stillmanded respect and authority, despite the low morale and disastrous night battles.
They were on the move again, rushing toward what the map indicated was the first and only town they would pass through on the way to Puabi.
As they trudged through the final league, a meteor shower started. At first, it wasnt as dramatic as the previous massive meteor shower. There were only a few scattered streaks of light visible through the clouds and rain. Until the massive ball of burning fire appeared.
As soon as Xerxes saw it, his heart sank. Everyone craned their necks as the huge falling meteor rumbled overhead, then disappeared beyond their field of view. Momentster, a distant thumping sound echoed out, followed by a cloud of dust rising into the air.
Dasi! Gandash shouted.
She didnt need him to exin the orders. She shapeshifted and flew in the direction of the meteor.
The rain started to fall in earnest then, a steady stream that caused pools of muddy water to build up everywhere.
Meanwhile, thepany formed ranks. Dasi returned only ten minutester.
Returning to human form she yelled, A big onesing right toward us. Its a variation on the kind with arms. Its massive. Probably stage five or six.
Almost as if in coordination with her words, they heard a muffled thump in the distance. Then another.
Itsing, someone said.
Unsighted, fall back! Gandash yelled. Mages, get yourponents ready. Dasi, I want you to shrink the thing down. Xerk, you lead the Asgagu mages and get on top of it. Once youre there, use Minor Augmentation on your sword and stab the fuck out of the thing. Get to its brain as quickly as possible. Then
A shadow fell over them, and then the gigantic Abhorrent smashed into the nearby forest. There was no more time for orders.
Xerxes ran forward, pulling out a handful of stibnite talc to cast Minor Augmentation. Before he could, a massive hand crashed through the trees, grabbed him, and flung him to the side. He hit a tree, and everything went ck.
Chapter 71: A Choice (1)
Chapter 71: A Choice (1)
The stage six juvenile Abhorrent was dead. As were hundreds upon hundreds of spawn that hade with it. The price to pay had been enormous. Xerxes had regained consciousness after the fighting was done, to find that five mages had fallen inbat. Kuri, Tizqar, Ningal, Atra-Hasis, and Laxu. Gandash had also been injured, and though spellcasting had saved his life, he hadnt woken up since. Many Unsighted had been killed as well.
Xerxes shuddered.
The fighting spilled into the nearby vige. From the mouth of the cave, he could barely see what was left of the ce. The torrential rain had already quenched the fires. There was no smoke. Any surviving vigers had long since fled.
Xerxes, Teucer, and Kashtiliash worked with Unsighted troops to dig a ditch and erect a mound to serve as their outermost defense. After the digging, they used wooden stakes to fortify the earth. When they finished, Teucer went back into the cave.
Katayoun came a few minutester.
Gandash is stable, she said.
Good, Xerxes replied. He embraced her, and for a moment, they just stood there together.
What about Jad? Kashtiliash asked.
Katayoun sighed. He stopped ranting. I think he realized he wasing across as a bit unhinged. But you can tell hes not ready to give up.
I hate to say it, Xerxes said, but he does have a point.
Jad was trying harder than ever to convince everyone that Gandash was unfit to lead them. The disastrous battle with the stage six juvenile had given him all the talking points he needed to press his case. And with Gandash in aa, there was no one to argue against him. In fact,
Youre going to have to make a decision eventually, Katayoun said.
Xerxes nodded. As the First Lieutenant of Unit One, he was technically the highest ranking officer. If Gandash didnt wake up soon, Xerxes would be the one to decide where to go next.
Lets go eat, Kashtiliash said.
Agreed, Katayoun added.
Together, they went back through the tunnel into the main caveplex. It was an enormous open space, such that the torch andmp light didnte close topletely illuminating it. Centuries ago, the vigers must have used the ce to hide when bandits came, but in years since then, a ce for children to explore and nothing else.
The camp was divided into separate areas based on the configuration of the cave itself. Tents were arrayed around campfires, with the Unsighted primarily on the left three quarters of the cave, with the mages on the right-hand side, where a rock shelf created a naturally elevated section.
They climbed adder to the shelf, and joined the other mages around the fire.
Five mages had fallen in the fighting. Those who were still alive looked haunted, exhausted, and taciturn.
Dasi had a patch on the side of her head to cover her missing ear. Even though theyd found the ear after the battle, shed refused to waste mm on reattaching it.
Ningsummunu, like Dasi, was from Sin-Masu. He had kept all his piercings in. By luck, he hadnt received a single injury so far. But he seemed more affected mentally, and refused to look anyone in the eye or say more than a word or two out loud.
Kishar, who was Katayouns best friend, was no worse for the wear, although shedpletely drained her chamber of energy.
Finally, Teucer was there, his longsword on the ground next to him.
Wheres Jad? Xerxes asked as he sat down and filled a bowl with porridge.
He went to talk to the Unsighted officers, Teucer replied. Hes changed his idea a bit.
Oh? How, exactly?
Teucer shook his head and raised his eyebrows. You should hear it from him personally.
Okay, Xerxes said. It was bad enough that Jad was essentially trying to start a mutiny. What worse idea could he havee up with?
He was scraping thest of the porridge from the bowl when someone finally broke the silence.
It was Kishar. What are you thinking, Xerk? she asked.
He looked up at her. What do you mean?
About what were going to do next. We have no idea when Gandash will wake up. He might not. The storms going to pass eventually. Maybe even by tomorrow.
He squatted over the cauldron and scooped out more porridge. Then sat back down. He ate a few spoonfuls.
I dont know. Guys, you know as well as I do that Im not officer material. If we have to make a decision, I say we take a vote.
His statement was met with silence.
Then Kishar said, Xerk. She looked at Katayoun.
Xerxes looked back and forth between the two of them. What.
Katayoun looked at her friend and nodded.
Kishar continued, Xerk, I know how close you came to bing an officer. Kat told me.
Wait, what now? Teucer said.
Kishar was looking closely at Xerxes. He opened his mouth to speak, then closed it. He didnt want to be the one to exin.
Xerxes almost got an officermission, Kishar said. Back on Sin-Amuhhu, he and Kat were on a mission assigned by Archon Shabadras. If the mission had gone well, Xerxes would be an officer.
Except it didnt, Xerxes said. So Im not an officer.
Thats not the point, Kishar said.
Shes right, Katayoun said quietly. She grabbed Xerxes hand. Of our group, youre the closest ites to being qualified. And in my heart, I know youre qualified. You should be an officer. Its just that stupid Truth Disc ruined everything.
Truth Disc? Kashtiliash said.
Its not important, Xerxes said. Look, thanks for the vote of confidence, Kat. And you too, Kishar. But in the end, Im not the captain. Gandy is. And lets just wait and see what happens. If he wakes up, then all of this is moot. And if he doesnt wake up, then well do what makes sense.
Teucer left to clean his bowl and spoon. Kishar soon followed. By the time Xerxes finished his second bowl, only he, Katayoun and Kashtiliash were left.
I think I should go find Jad, he said.
Ill take your bowl, Katayoun said.
No, Ill get it. Give me yours.
I insist, she said, grabbing it out of his hand.
He smiled and kissed her.
You too, Kash, she said. Might as well get them all at once.
Aint gonna happen, Kashtiliash said, holding his bowl and spoon away from her. Mom would kill me.
Well, at least join me. How about that?
Sure.
Xerxes went back to thedder, hopped to the lower section of the cave, and went looking for Jad.
Chapter 71: A Choice (2)
Chapter 71: A Choice (2)
The tall mage sat at a fire with Sergeants Stratos and the sergeant from Katayouns Unit Five, who was named Laz. Xerxes approached, but stayed about five cubits away, where the light from the fire gave way to shadows.
Unit Five might be the only unit still left whole, Jad said, but that wontst forever. Im telling you, my ns sound.
Stratos cleared his throat. Lieutenant Jad, its not that I disagree. But theres a clear chain ofmand. We cant circumvent it.
And Im not asking you to. I just want you to think about what youd do if you had the choice.
Stratos nodded. Then he happened to catch sight of Xerxes in the shadows at the edge of the firelight. He stood and gave a salute. First Lieutenant Xerxes, he said.
Xerxes took two steps forward. Sergeant. He looked at his fellow Swordmaster. Jad.
Jad also stood. Hey, Xerk. Looking at Stratos, and then down at Laz, he said, Just think about it, gentlemen. Thats all I ask.
Then he stepped away from the fire and toward Xerxes.
Xerk-man, he said. Any updates?
Not really. I wanted to talk with you about what well do next.
Good. I wanted to talk with you also.
Did you eat already?
Yeah.
Xerxes nced around the shadowy camp. There wasnt really a good ce for some sort of sitdown talk. How about we go back to the cave mouth?
Sure.
They walked back to where Xerxes had helped dig and fortify the entrance.
Go get some food, Xerxes said to the Unsighted soldiers there. Well take over the watch for the time being.
Yes, sir.
After the soldiers left, Xerxes leaned up against the hastily-built wooden frame that formed a makeshift doorway. What was it you asked Stratos and Laz to think about? he asked.
Simple, Jad said. That they go on to Puabi with the Seers, while we High Seers head back to the Gateway. Think about it. If the High Seers run full speed, we could get back there in a single day.
Jad, the trip would take longer than that.
Purattu did it in a single night!
Hes a High Mystic, Jad, and you know it. Besides, none of us could maintain top speed for hours in a row, especially given our current condition.
Jad shook his head and huffed. Thats not the point. Even if it took us three days to get there. Or four.
Xerxes thought about it for a bit. Then exhaled sharply. I dont like the idea of leaving everybody behind. Teucers one of us. One of the Swordmasters. And Kishar is Kats best friend. Theyre not going to want to part ways.
Im not suggesting we just abandon them. Randy Gandy was right about one thing: the city will be safer. But we need to think long term. If all of us hole up in Puabi, Sin-Amuhhu wont have any idea whats happening here. In which case, who knows how long it will be before Sin-Amuhhu sends reinforcements? And it doesnt take a genius strategist to realize that without some help, Jehannemids screwed.
Xerxes had to admit that Jad had some valid points. What do the Unsighted officers think about it?
Theyre onboard. After all, by now, theyve all figured out that the Abhorrent want us and not them. Theyll be happy to have the strongest of us going in the opposite direction as them. And the whole group will be safer that way. But as you know, their conditioning wont allow them to do something like that unless they have orders.
Xerxes nodded. And of the mages, who did you talk to about it already?
Teucer and Dasi. They agree with me.
Fine. Xerxes took a deep breath. I want to talk to the others and see what they think. Without you getting involved. Like I told them earlier, Im not going to order people around. I want to have a vote. But before we do that, I also want an idea of what theyre thinking.
That sounds fine to me.
Good. Why dont you go back and send some Unsighted to take over the watch. Then get some rest. This storm doesnt look like itll pass any time soon, so we have some time to recover and get ready for the road, whichever way it goes.
Sure thing, Xerk-man. Jad stood and stretched his neck. Look, I just want us all to get out of here alive. Even Gandy. You know that, right?
Yeah.
Jad left, and Xerxes stood there for a while, looking out at the rain.
How did it end up like this? Ever since the disastrous mission on Mannemid, everything had been moving at blinding speed, leaving him feeling like he had almost no control over his own life. Except now he had a chance to be in charge, even if it was only temporary. Was Jad right? Should they just run back to the Gateway, right when they were right on the cusp of reaching their destination?
More importantly what were the secret orders Gandash had in that box? Unfortunately, the only person who could open the box was Gandash, and he was in aa.
Regardless of the situation on the ground, they had to consider the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces and Mage Parliament. There was a reason they had sent ck Jackal Company down to Jehannemid, and if thepany gave up without aplishing the mission, there would definitely be consequences. Gandash had already mentioned the punishment for treason.
Two Unsighted soldiers came a few minutester, and Xerxes headed back to the camp. The first person he found was Katayoun; she was waiting in the tent that they had agreed to share. He told her about Jads suggestion and asked her opinion.
She took her time giving an answer. When she finally spoke, she said, I dont want to leave Kishar. But it does make sense to go for help. Sin-Amuhhu wont know whats going on unless we tell them. I just wonder what the whole secret mission is about.
Me too.
Other than that, Im willing to think about it. Wed need a better n than just run back, though.
Agreed. Im going to go talk to some of the others. Ill be back soon.
He consulted with the other mages that Jad hadnt mentioned talking to. Kashtiliash, Ningsummunu, and Kishar. Kashtiliash was the only High Seer among the three. He echoed sentiments simr to Katayoun.
As for the other two, they were Seers, and ording to Jads n, they were to continue to Puabi. Teucer immediately agreed, saying, It makes sense. If you get word up to Sin-Amuhhu, they can send down more troops. And stronger mages. Meanwhile, well be safe behind the city walls.
Kishar didnt seem as enthusiastic, but didnt voice outright opposition.
With those conversations out of the way, Xerxes could only reach the conclusion that all the mages were fine with the idea.
Thest thing he did before going back to Katayoun was visit Gandy.
His old friend was unconscious. His physical wounds had been healed, yet he still wasnt awake. With no reason to attend to him constantly, he wasying in the tent alone.
Xerxes knelt next to him, then reached out to put a hand on his forearm.
Gandy, he whispered. Can you hear me? We have an idea. Send the High Seers back to the Gateway to get help. What do you think?
There was no response.
Xerxes closed his eyes for a long moment. Then he prayed. Oh exalted Monad. Or maybe youre the Pontifarch. I dont know. All I know is that we need help. Please, send something or someone. Otherwise, I think were all going to die.
He opened his eyes. Gandash stilly there still and unmoving other than the rise and fall of his chest.
Gandy, you need to wake up. Hurry.
Chapter 72: A Vote (1)
Chapter 72: A Vote (1)
The rain didnt let up the next day. It pounded thends relentlessly, darkening the sky even when the sun should have been high, and making the roads too muddy for safe travel.
The only hint of Abhorrent activity were a few spawn that wandered up the slope. They were killed easily. No one was letting down their guard. The Unsighted troops slept in their armor, with weapons at their side. And the mages stayed simrly prepared.
Gandash showed no signs of waking, and Jad continued to make the rounds, to drum up support and refine his n.
Of course, the idea of leaving Jehannemid and getting back up to the luxuries of Sin-Amuhhu was tempting in and of itself, even though there was no guarantee that would happen. But in terms of a general strategy, it made sense. Even a single High Mystic like Purattu could make a difference in a situation like this, and for all they knew, it was possible militarymand would send much more powerful reinforcements to deal with what seemed to be a full scale invasion.
But for now, they needed to wait out the stormand see if Gandash would wake.
Some members of the camp passed time with card games or dice. A few of the Unsighted troops yed musical instruments. Many of the mages spent time on meditation or rune study, including Xerxes. It would be a long time before he reached the Mystic level, but hed already decided which rune to study. Asgagu Samnum, which would allow him to cast Major Augmentation, an enhanced version of Minor Augmentation. Of course, a new Asgagu spell line opened up for Mystics that allowed for augmentation of projectile weapons. But Xerxes was no archer or javelineer.
The mages reviewed the fight with the massive juvenile. If they faced something simr in the future, they would be more prepared.
Another night passed.
Another day.
It was on the morning of the third day, when Xerxes and Katayoun were at the mouth of the cave looking out into the rain, when Sergeant Stratos ran to them and said, The Captains awake!
Xerxes and Katayoun hurried back inside, up to the shelf, and to Gandashs tent.
Dasi was outside, and nodded in greeting as they approached. Kishars examining him, she said.
Can we go in? Xerxes asked.
Of course.
He pushed the p aside and let Kat go through first.
Gandashs tent wasrger than any of the others in the camp, but with three visitors inside, it was crowded. Gandash was on his bedroll, in a sitting position. Kishar was checking his pulse.
Gandy, Xerxes said.
Xerk. Kat. Gandash managed to force out a grin. I guess we made it out on top.
Xerxes nodded. Some of us, anyway.
Gandashs grin disappeared. How bad was it?
Trying not to think about the faces of all the lostrades, Xerxes said. We lost twenty-five Unsighted troops.
Gandash exhaled sharply. Mages?
Kuri fell. Tizqar. Ningal. Atra-Hasis. Laxu.
FUCK!
Captain, Kishar said, please, try to remain calm. Youve been unconscious for three days. Getting all riled up isnt going to help.
I know. But still. Fuck.
Gandash gritted his teeth so hard his jaw muscles looked like steel. But at the same time, his eyes looked haunted.
Xerxes stood there for a moment, wondering what else to say. Were holed up in a cave about half a league from the vige. We entrenched fairly well, and havent seen any Abhorrent other than a couple stragglers. The storm is still pounding us.
Gandash said nothing.
Kishar stepped away from his bedroll. Captain, you seem fine. Then again, you also seemed fine before. You just wouldnt wake up.
Thanks, Lieutenant, Gandash said.
When do I tell him about Jads n?
Ill step out now, Kishar said. Theres food and water on the table.
Ill be outside as well, Katayoun said.
And then they were gone, leaving Xerxes and Gandash alone.
I screwed up, Gandash said. We shouldnt have tried to take that thing out. We should have just run.
We could never have outrun a stage six juvenile, Gandy. You made the right choice. And in the end, we survived.
Gandash groaned as he got to his feet and stepped over to the small table and chair. He lowered himself into the chair, poured water into the cup from a pitcher, and took a long drink. Is everyone ready to travel?
Yeah. But. There was no way Gandash was going to go along with Jads n. Was there?
But? Gandash said.
The thing is, weve been talking, and we have an idea.
Gandash looked at him.
He exined, leaving out the part that the entire thing was Jads idea. When he finished with the exnation, Gandash didnt say anything.
So, what do you think? Xerxes asked.
Gandash took a bite of food. Then another. For about two or three minutes, he just attacked the bread and stew on the table, until there wasnt anything left. After that, he reached into his upper garment and pulled out the case that contained the secret mission orders. Unstringing it from himself, he put the box on the table and looked at it.
Gandash finished the water, and then opened the box. Inside was a rectangr envelope made of metal.
Gandash held it up. Im not supposed to open this until Puabi, unless circumstances dictate otherwise.
Xerxes was silent.
Gandash looked at the envelope for a long moment, then put his thumbs on either side. Mm flowed from within the envelope, revealing that it had a built-in spell formation. A momentter, the envelope unfolded into a metal sheet.
The angle made it impossible for Xerxes to see what was on it, but clearly, there was writing.
Gandash read.
His eyes went wide.
He reached the bottom, then went back to the top and re-read it.
Then he put the metal sheet upside down on the table. It began to smoke, its edges curling up as if it were a sheet of paper tossed into a fire. Over the course of about fifteen seconds, it transformed into ashes. Then the ashes faded into nothing.
Xerxes picked up no clue as to what Gandash thought.
Chapter 72: A Vote (2)
Chapter 72: A Vote (2)
Gandash took another drink of water. I cant agree to go back, he said.
I knew it. Xerxes thought about the implications. How all of the soldiers and mages had already agreed to the new n. Are you sure? he asked.
Im sure. Lets have a meeting. Is the conference tent set up already?
No.
Get it up. Gather the mages. Well talk in fifteen minutes.
Xerxes, Kashtiliash, and Teucer were the ones to erect the tent. As such, they were the first to arrive at the meeting. Katayoun and Kishar came next, followed by Dasi and Ningsummunu. Jad camest.
Thest time the mages met together, there had been sixteen of them. That number had been reduced by about half.
Gandash had taken the time to change into his uniform, and showed no signs of having been unconscious for days.
Im not going to waste time on a pep speech, Gandash said. I heard about the proposal to split thepany. In many ways, its a good idea. Except that I opened the final mission description, and I need the High Seers with me in Puabi.
Jad pshawed.
Gandash looked at him. You have something to say, Lieutenant Jad?
Jads fists were already clenched, and he was leaning forward aggressively. Yeah. Youre full of shit. Youre scared of getting called out for all your bad decisions, so of course you dont want us going back to the Gateway. If the top brass finds out about how you got half of us killed before we even got to Puabi, then your shitty military career will be over.
Is that it? Gandash said. Is that all you have to say?
No. I bet you want to keep going because you think the rest of us are going to die too. Youd like that. Then nobody would be around to tell them how badly you messed up.
None of that is true, Lieutenant, Gandash said. ording to the mission instructions, Im to see the operation through regardless of how many losses there are. In fact, even if ourpany ispletely wiped out, except for me, I have to see it through. However, I obviously dont want that oue. Sticking together is the safest option, and also the most likely way for all of us to get through this.
Again, I say bullshit, Jad said. Before, you said it was eptable to abort the mission if there were heavy casualties. Now youre saying something entirely different.
Thats because I opened the secret mission briefing I mentioned.
Jadughed. Very convenient. Didnt you say you were supposed to open them at Puabi? How do we even know the mission instructions are real? Show them to us.
They were inscribed on a metal sheet with a built-in spell formation that destroyed them about a minute after I opened them. Xerxes was there with me. You can ask him.
Xerxes opened his mouth to confirm what Gandash had said, but he didnt have a chance to speak.
Lies, Jad said. Youre full of lies. He looked around at the other mages. Hes hell-bent on marching us to our graves, except, Im not going to stand for it. Im relieving Captain Gandash of duty. Effective immediately.
You cant do that, Ningsummunu said.
Why not?
Theres a process. The only person who can do it is the next inmand. That would be Xerk. Besides, you can only relieve a superior officer in the most extreme circumstances. Like for treason.
Jad spat. Intentionally getting all of hismand killed is a pretty extreme circumstance, if you ask me.
I havent done anything of the kind, Gandash said. Our mission in Puabi is vastly more important than I previously understood it to be. We dont know the exact circumstances in the city, but there will be mages there. Seers and High Seers. Its conceivable they could have a Mystic. Thats not to mention an entire army of Unsighted. Plus we have the Abhorrent to consider. I need you High Seers to
It doesnt matter what you want us to do, Jad said. It wont happen unless you have our support. So why dont you ask? Ask us. Ask the High Seers what we want to do.
Thats not how the military works, Xerxes thought, but hed already asked the High Seers what they wanted, and he knew.
Gandash looked at Jad. Fine. How many of you High Seers want to split thepany, with you heading back to the Gateway, while the rest of us continue to Puabi? Keep in mind, youll be abandoning the weaker members of thepany in dire circumstances, while you essentially run away.
Well be going to get reinforcements, Jad said. All of you know where I stand. He raised his hand and looked around.
There were only five High Seers. Xerxes, Katayoun, Kashtiliash, Dasi, and of course Jad. At first, no one moved or said a thing. Then Dasi raised her hand. Im with Jad.
Jads eyes went from Katayoun to Xerxes, then stopped at Kashtiliash.
The bearded mage had his arms crossed and he was frowning. But after a moment, he raised his hand. Get reinforcements, he said.
That left Katayoun and Xerxes.
Katayoun looked at Kishar briefly, then raised her hand. I agree. I think were in over our heads. We need Mystics. Or Archons.
Xerxes felt torn. In reality, he believed Gandash to be correct. But he couldnt help but think about the apartment in Sin-Amuhhu that he and Katayoun had talked about. The vegetable garden. The clean streets and delicious food. Would any of that be a reality if they all died in a muddy corner of Jehannemid?
He slowly raised his hand. Im with Kat.
Gandashs expression couldnt have looked more stony. What about the Seers? Ningsummunu? Kishar? Teucer?
Ningsummunu said, I think its foolish to split thepany. But ording to the n, the Seers fate is the same. Im with you, Captain.
Teucer looked like he was eating a lemon. I back Jad.
Kishar was the only one left. She looked at Jad, Gandash, then Katayoun. I also think we need help.
Gandash nodded curtly. I see.
Xerxes expected Jad to take advantage of the vote to further harry Gandash, but he didnt. He held his tongue.
In that case, Gandash continued, Ill consider the options. Everyones dismissed.
Chapter 73: Let’s Get Moving
Chapter 73: Let¡¯s Get Moving
The rain had stopped, at longst. Even in the cave, the fresh smell of a post-rain storm lifted spirits. Clouds still choked the sky, but it was only a matter of time before the sun came out and dried the roads. Was it a sign that everything was going to be different going forward?
Gandash talked to everyone on an individual basis. Starting with Jad.
Xerxes wondered if a fight might break out. But when it was over, Jad and Gandash shook hands. Gandash even reached out to put his hand on Jads shoulder. Jad nodded and smiled.
Im sorry, Xerk, Katyoun said.
What do you mean?
I know that me siding with Jad put you in a hard position. But, like I told you before, Im not cut out for war. None of us are. If we can get back to the Gateway and call for help, everything will end sooner. And then you and I can get that apartment.
Xerxes smiled. I know. Kat, I wanted to ask you something.
She looked at him expectantly.
After this is over, theres no saying well be able to get that apartment we talked about on Sin-Amuhhu. What if we end up getting sent down to the lower starisles?
Were already here at the lower starisles, she said.
Feeling somewhat silly, he shook his head. I know. What I meant is what if we just get a ce on Mannemid? Or hell, if you want to go back to your home, thats fine too. Its just that my dad has a good job in the capital on Mannemid. Maybe its not Sin-Amuhhu, but its not that bad.
You live by a harbor, right?
Yeah. You can get great seafood for cheap, right on the street. And rowboats are cheap to rent. I could show you some great ind spots.
I think. She put her arms around his waist. I think we can make it work wherever we end up.
He kissed her forehead. Good. Then lets make that our n. We can y it by ear, obviously. See how much we get paid. And make the final decision based on that.
Okay.
One by one, Gandash met with all the other mages. Except Xerxes.
Xerxes felt partly relieved, but at the same time, somewhat offended. He was even tempted to take the initiative to go talk to Gandash. But then again, what was there to say? Everything had already beenid out in the open. Once they returned from the Gatewayplex at the head of an army of mages from Sin-Amuhhu, Gandash would realize everything had been for the better good.
The next morning, they broke camp and prepped for travel. Theyd only been camped for a few days, but even still, it felt like they were uprooting and making a huge change.
It was as the troops formed ranks outside that Gandash came to find Xerxes. He wore his officers uniform,plete with all the outerments. He looked impressive.
Xerk, lets talk, he said.
Xerxes, who had been packing Reds saddlebags, was caught by surprise. Oh, sure. Um, Kat, do you mind keeping an eye on Red?
No problem, Katayoun said, taking the horses reins.
Gandash was already walking away. Xerxes followed, being careful not to slip in the mud.
A few cubits from the mouth of the cave, the mountain slope led up to a boulder outcropping. Theyd originally considered using it as a watchtower, but the rain had been too heavy.
From this vantage point, the gatheringpany below was mostly out of sight, but the rest of the mountain stretched out in a panoramic view. Ignoring the ruined vige below and focusing on the road stretching to the east, it imparted a sense of peace and hope.
They stood there together for a moment in the stiff mountain breeze.
Gandy, about that vote
Gandash raised his hand to cut him off, and then lowered it as if drained.
Xerxes was struck by how old he seemed. Not his skin or his hair. But his eyes. They didnt look like the eyes of the happy-go-lucky bookworm hed grown up with. I made a mistake, Xerxes. Back on Sin-Amuhhu when you asked me to talk, I stupidly thought that drinking a bunch of ale would loosen my tongue and make things easier. Well, it loosened my tongue, thats for sure. But not the way I intended.
Gandy, we already talked about this. Its fine.
Gandash kept talking as though he hadnt said a word. The problem is that I had some important things to say, but never said them. Weve reached the point where those things have to be aired.
Okay.
Im done with you, Xerxes. Done.
Xerxes eyes narrowed as he tried to figure out what Gandash was talking about. What?
Gandash looked away, shifting his gaze to the scenery below. Youve made it very clear over the past several months that you dont want to be friends with me. So from here on out, we arent.
Xerxess scalp tightened. Gandy, what are you talking about? We grew up together. Maybe weve had some ups and downs, but nothing can change that. Our dads are best friends! Our moms too.
Gandash shook his head. Our family has nothing to do with it. Your parents always treated me well. Your sister too. Ill never forget that. But you have a problem, and you know what it is? Youre a narcissist who only looks out for himself.
Where is all thising from?
Look, Gandy, if you want to say mean things, go ahead. I can take it. Get it all of your chest. Its only
Im not saying mean things. Its just the truth. When we had dinner and I got drunk, I went a bit wild. But it was my behavior that was wild, not my words. He hesitated. I take that back. I did say a few things that were way off. For instance, about you and Kat. And I apologized for that. I know your rtionship with her doesnt have anything to do with me. But he looked Xerxes in the eye the fact remains that although you didnt make my life a living hell, you havent done anything I would expect a true friend to do. Refusing to take action can be just as consequential as taking action.
I.
Xerxes, we were both friends with Bel. But I loved her. And she died. Because of you.
Xerxes mouth dropped open. I.
Im not trying to be dramatic, Xerk. You just had to jump in and fight that Abhorrent. She was back behind the line of troops, and went in to heal you. Thats why the thing got her. I understand it was a heated moment. Your actions led to her death. Did you ever talk to me about that? Did you ever talk to anyone about that? No, you didnt.
And what about Gem? He also died because of you. You picked a fight in the tavern, and that fight led to a street brawl. And Gem died.
Xerxes felt his hands closing into fists. You were drunk that night, Gandy. You were about ready to start a brawl. Gem and I did that knife-throwing trick to cool things down.
You didnt have to knock the man across the room. You were showing off to the soldiers. It couldnt have been more obvious. Like I said, you think about yourself, and nobody else.
When we got sent up to Sin-Amuhhu you basically forgot about everything that happened on Mannemid. The blood. The death. Do you remember Rihan? Goran? Apuulluunideeszu? Aban-Saddi? Did you ever once go to the temple to mourn them? To burn candles for them? Did you ever think about Bel?
No, you didnt. And then you got tangled up with your fucking Swordmasters. Over and over again youve shown that youd rather side with them than me. They humiliated me because of that elephant hat, and you went along with it. You Theres still time to fix things with Gandy, he thought. Or was there?
Looking at the scenery, he tried to clear his mind. He focused on the horizon. On the clouds. On a bird that wheeled through the air. But despite those efforts, the questions and doubts assailed him.
What happened?
Xerxes turned, startled, to find Katayoun standing on the boulder with him, her fiery hair bound and hanging down her back, but a few loose strands dancing in the breeze.
He inhaled. Exhaled. Hes pissed.
I probably would be too, she replied.
Not just about the High Seer vote. About a lot of things. Between me and him.
I know. She took his hand. Youve been up here for an hour.
Really?
The rest of the troops are already moving down to the road. I finished getting Red ready for you. Kash has your sword.
Oh.
She walked back down to the cave mouth and he followed. Sergeant Stratos was in the rearguard. He gave Xerxes a wave. Xerxes half-smiled and waved back.
Everything good, Xerk-man? Jad asked.
Fine.
Kash tossed him his sword and sheath. He slipped the leather contraption onto his back and started buckling it.
Red was gone. After all, the High Seers wouldnt be relying on the speed of mounts to make their trek. I cant change anything now. The only thing I can do is go forward.
Xerxes looked to the West. The mountains that were their destination wouldnt be visible until theyd crossed leagues upon leagues of dangerous terrain. But all they had to do was reach that Gatewayplex, and everything would turn around.
Are we ready? he asked.
Ready, Kashtiliash said, giving a tug to tighten a strap on his sheath.
Lets save the day, Dasi added.
Xerxes gave onest nce at the column of departing troops. Yeah. Lets get moving.
Chapter 74: Mountains (1)
Chapter 74: Mountains (1)
Running at top speed, or close to it, for long distances wasnt like sprinting in bursts. To date on the mission, there hadnt been any need for Xerxes to engage in any sustained sessions of running.
Mage uniforms, while specifically designed to be convenient when fighting on the battlefield, were still akin to the robes they wore on formal asions. Given the speeds that High Seers were capable of, the pping cloth of loose garments would cause a problem long before they reached top speed. That wasnt to mention their traveling packs, and the Swordsmasters bulky weapons.
As the column of troops wound its way down the mountain, Xerxes and the other High Seers took out straps of leather that they used to bind their sleeves and pants tighter. There was specialized clothing, footgear, and the like that could be used to further optimize movement. But they didnt have such gear, as the mission specifications hadnt called for them. Improvised measures would have to suffice.
They started running in the opposite direction as thepany. They went down the mountain, and then skirted the destroyed vige and headed north. Jad, as a native of Jehannemid, had insisted they take a different route back.
The path through the forest was winding, which made it impossible to reach high speeds.
But soon they were out into the open, and could elerate.
Xerxes reveled in the feeling of the wind pushing against his face and hair, and the pounding of his blood in his veins.
The roads were empty, which was no surprise considering the Abhorrent. The emptiness was eerie.
They had to stop to rest after the second hour of travel.
Though their training had involved running, and even some long-distance running, none of it hadpared to this.
How much farther? Kashtiliash asked.
Jad chuckled. I bet we covered twenty leagues already. So only a hundred and thirty to go.
Dasi muttered a curse.
Overhead, the patchy clouds were giving way to blue skies. For some reason, Xerxes felt like it was a good sign. At least its not raining, he said.
True, Jad said. Roads are clear. I say we try to pick up speed on the next leg.
Works for me, Kashtiliash said.
They rested for a few more minutes, then started running once again.
After another hour, there werent any clouds in the sky, and the temperature started to rise. Even when the road turned straight and they pushed their speed toward the limits of what High Seers were capable of, it still felt hot.
The next time they rested, it was in the shadow of some trees not too far from the road.
They ate and drank, then took an hour to rx. Xerxes and Katayoun leaned against each other with their backs to a tree trunk, and he hovered on the brink of sleep.
Guys, Dasi said.
Xerxes opened his eyes.
Dasi got to her feet and stepped out from underneath the tree. She was looking up.
What is it? Jad asked.
Kashtiliash heaved himself to his feet and stepped over to Dasis side. Shit. A meteor.
Xerxes leaned away from the tree. Just one?
Dasi and Kashtiliash were looking at the sky.
Two, Kashtiliash said. A moment passed. Three.
Its hard to tell for sure because its so bright, Dasi said. There could be more. Smaller ones that dont show up in the sunlight.
Another moment passed.
A couple of meteors arent anything to worry about, Jad said. Kind of to be expected, right?
No one responded.
For a few more minutes, Dasi and Kashtiliash kept their eyes on the sky.
A short timeter, they continued on their journey. As the sun crawled across the sky, and the shadows shifted, their speed decreased.
Xerxes spotted another falling star. Then another. They continued to appear every once in a while. They took one more break. This time, the stars were falling constantly. They found a boulder outcropping overlooking the road where they caught their breath and looked at the disy overhead.
They dont seem to be falling into any specific area, Katayoun said. Some go west. Some east.
None to the south, though, Kashtiliash added.
Jad swallowed a mouthful of water. Still, theyre scattered. Not like that huge storm from before.
Xerxes tracked a streak of light that looked like it might have touched down only a few leagues to the west of them. I dont like the idea that the area between us and the Gateway might fill up with the things.
Come on guys, Jad said. Focus on the positive, not the negative. As long as we move quickly and carefully, a handful of Abhorrent arent going to be a problem.
We need to find a really good ce to sleep tonight, Katayoun said. Dont forget they can sense us.
Xerxes definitely hadnt forgotten that part. Before continuing on the final run before it got dark, they found a ce on the map where it seemed safe to hole up, a rocky, mountainous region where caves should exist.
They continued until evening fell.
They didnt find a cave, but they did find a teau that could only be reached by a narrow path. There, they pitched tents and slept. They split the night into four two-hour watches, which meant that one of their number could sleep the night through without being woken. Katayoun was selected to be that person. Xerxes took the first watch.
The meteors waned almost the moment he stationed himself at the edge of the teau, overlooking the road and expanse of empty terrain. He found theck of meteors heartening.
As he neared the end of his watch, he spotted motion on the road below. It was too far to make out details clearly, but it looked like a group of animals, moving at high speed.
Abhorrent? he murmured.
He watched closely, gnawing his lip, expecting the moving figures to slow, then turn in the direction of their camp. They didnt.
Chapter 74: Mountains (2)
Chapter 74: Mountains (2)
However, after that, he felt so anxious that he didnt feel like he could actually end up sleeping if he went back into the tent with Katayoun. So he stayed at the edge of the teau.
About an hourter, there was another shower of meteors, and he saw more movement on the road. Again, nothing turned in their direction.
He thought back to a lesson in which Mystic Rabya had talked about such matters.
When ites to Abhorrent sensing mm, shed said, ites down to the same problem weve discussed before. Who knows what Im referring to?
A few students raised their hands and Rabya called on Atra-Hasis.
Our direct knowledge of Abhorrent behavior iscking.
Exactly, Rabya said. Thest time we faced any real Abhorrent was centuries upon centuries ago. The summoned variety behave differently. Besides, few mages want to waste mm summoning Abhorrent simply to study them. Of course, top military brass has ordered such studies. With limited results. Regardless, long-term behavior is impossible to study or observe. We cant dissect them because they disappear upon death. Rabya noticed a raised hand. Yes, Katayoun?
What about vivisection?
What section? Enusat said.
Kat turned to look at him. Vivisection. Its like dissection, except the subjects alive.
Rabya nodded. Good question, Kat. Vivisection... has been performed on Abhorrent. Thats one of the ways we do know a bit about their anatomy and internal structure. But whether it''s dissection or vivisection, you still have to deal with the problems of mm loss, the short duration of summoning spells, and the like.
In any case, getting back to how they sense mm, the short story is that we dont know much. We dont know how they do it. Do they have an organ that allows them to sense us? Is it rted to their connection to mm itself? She shrugged. I know, this lecture is providing you a fat lot of nothing in terms of actionable information.
There are some things we do know. Did anybody read Surviving a Trip to the Nightmare Cove by Anunnaki Ninursag?
All of the smart kids raised their hands, including Katayoun, Arwia, Kuri, and Ningal. Ningsummunu joined them.
Arwia, do you remember the description of how Ninursag escaped that desert?
I do, Mystic Rabya. But isnt that book fictional?
Rabya cleared her throat. Its listed as fiction in the library catalog, but many people believe it to be based on fact. So the desert section?
Right. She managed to avoid at least two mature Abhorrent, simply by moving around them.
Exactly. One thing thats generally agreed upon regardless of the texts you chose to study about Abhorrent, is that theres a limit to the range at which they can sense mm. That range seems to increase as they grow, but it doesnt extend to dramatic proportions. You can find a few books that have hard numbers attached to various growth stages of Abhorrent. Some im that the higher-level juveniles can sense mm from leagues away. Others assign much lower numbers.
In the middle of thinking back to that ss, Xerxes eyes drooped, and he woke when his chin suddenly hit his chest.
At that point, he woke Jad to take the next watch.
The following morning he felt tired, but not exhausted.
There was a huge meteor shower an hour ago, Dasi said. Theres been almost constant movement on the road.
Fuck, Kashtiliash said.
They stood on the teau and looked down. Sure enough, the road looked almost like a line of ants.
We cant go back down that way, Katayoun said. That much is obvious.
Its fine, Jad said. We can go through the mountains. Itll slow us down a bit, but once were on the other side, its a straight shot to the Gatewayplex.
How much is that going to slow us down? Xerxes wondered aloud.
Not that much. Jad sounded irritated. You want to go back to that clown Gandash? Be my guest!
I didnt say that, Xerxes said.
Whatever. Jad turned and went back to break down his tent.
I seriously didnt mean anything like that, Xerxes said again, keeping his voice down.
Its fine, Kashtiliash said.
Dasi nodded. Jads touchy because this whole thing was his idea and its not exactly going as nned. But we all bought into it. As long as we get back to the Gateway, send the message up, and get reinforcements, well be fine. Within a week or two, well be back with ck Jackal, throwing down drinks in Puabi, and all this will be worth it.
Traveling through the mountains was indeed much slower. That was especially the case given there were no roads to follow. As the morning passed, they backtracked three times after reaching impassable sections of terrain.
The upside was they didnt see any meteor showers.
The sun beat down, making Xerxes sweat. He felt dusty, and felt like he was constantly smacking away bugs.
Their High Seer speed only helped them in fits and bursts.
By the time evening fell, they had yet to reach the highest elevation point before the mountains dropped back down into the open ins that separated them from the Gatewayplex. They camped in an open area next to a very small stream of water.
There were no meteor showers.
Jad seemed to be in a better mood. What was more, they managed to kill a game bird, which they roasted over the fire to form the basis of a delicious dinner. It was a nice break from the monotony of travel food.
Jad even offered to take the first watch.
Safe in the tent with a few bowls of water, Katayoun carefully washed the grime of travel off Xerxes with a washcloth. He switched the water, and did the same for her.
An hourter, they fell asleep in each others arms.
This is what it will be like every night, he thought. Once we get out of here.
Chapter 75: I Want Us to be Safe (1)
Chapter 75: I Want Us to be Safe (1)
In the middle of an Abhorrent invasion, he somehow had a perfect night. He woke when Katayoun rolled over next to him. When he opened his eyes, the light of morning had brightened the interior of the tent. After looking at the fire of Katayouns hair, he closed his eyes again.
Wasnt I due for watch duty?
His eyes snapped open. Carefully throwing the nket off, he pulled on some clothes and stepped out of the tent.
The camp was quiet. The fire theyd built between the four tents had burned out, and wasnt even smoking. Looming not too far away was arge rock where theyd agreed was the best ce to stand watch. A figure was barely visible up there, but couldnt see clearly who it was.
Breath puffing in front of him, he hurried away from the tents and up the slope until he reached the huge rock. Jady there, curled up in a ball as he slept.
Fuck, Xerxes muttered. He took a few steps forward and took advantage of the superior view provided by the rock to examine their surroundings. Everything was still and quiet.
He nced back down at Jad, who didnt lookfortable as far as Xerxes was concerned, yet was clearly sound asleep.
Xerxes was too awake to consider going back to sleep. Nor did he see any benefit to waking Jad up. So instead, he stayed on the rock and kept an eye on the surroundings as the sun climbed up.
There were no signs of Abhorrent, but there was a bit of life. A rabbit-like creature hopped in the distance. Birdsong floated on the breeze.
Everything was peaceful as the sun burned away the morning mists.
Once the sun shone brightly enough, he saw Dasie out of her tent. She looked up in his direction and he waved. She waved back.
Kashtiliash woke next, followed by Katayoun.
They started tending to the camp and creating a hot morning meal.
Eventually, Xerxes stepped forward and nudged Jad with his toe.
Get up,zy-ass, Xerxes said.
Jad jerked up. What? Who?
Xerxes stepped back. You slept through your watch, he said.
Jad rubbed his eyes and stood. Fuck. Im so sorry.
Its fine. I woke up early and came to check. Everythings good. Lets go down and eat, then start moving again.
Neither Dasi, Kashtiliash, nor Katayoun asked about what had happened. Their expressions made it obvious that they didnt need to.
They ate in silence, packed up, and started moving.
At noon, they crested the mountains.
The wind and rain treated this side of the mountain differently. There were no paths, not even ones created by animals. In fact, the terrain was so treacherous, and their progress so slow, that Xerxes felt like he wasnt even a mage. He thought back to people hed known in Harborview on Mannemid, such as folk who harvested bird eggs from seaside cliffs, and mused that there were probably Unsighted who could move faster than them in terrain like this.
At one point, they spent thirty minutes backtracking from a stretch of rocks too sharp and numerous to hike through. As they mages were scrambling across the mountainside toward an area much less infested with rocks, they saw a few meteors falling overhead. As before, Jad minimized it, saying a few meteors werent going to cause any problems.
But the streaks of light grew more numerous. Despite it being the middle of the day, the they filled the sky. As they ate a quick meal of bread and cheese, they saw it intensify until everything above them was alive with falling stars.
This is bad, Kashtiliash said, scratching his beard.
Theres not much bad terrain between here and the Gatewayplex, Dasi said. If we push really hard, couldnt we make it by the end of the day?
Theres no way, Katayoun said. If it was a single straight road. A paved road. Then maybe. Except its not. Besides, how many Abhorrent are we going to have to avoid? I bet were two days out. Maybe even three.
This negativity is really getting to me, Jad said loudly.
No one responded.
Lets keep going, Xerxes said.
They did.
An hourter, big meteors fell from above. They stopped moving to watch.
Back on Mannemid, Xerxes had seen one of these meteors up close. And more recently, it was the same variety that had deposited the massive creature that savaged ck Jackal Company.
The current view was different from either previous instance. At least a dozen of them fell, perhaps even two dozen.
Plumes of smoke rose from five or six of the impact points. And from their vantage point, they were certain at least two of the meteors hadnded in viges.
Fuck, fuck, fuck, Dasi said.
My thoughts exactly, Kashtiliash said.
Come on guys, Jad said, a few big ones arent going to do anything. It makes them easier to see. And if you can see them, you can avoid them.
Theyre faster and stronger, Dasi said. And harder to kill. If we can see them, they can see us.
And sense mm from a greater distance, Katayoun added.
We dont know that for sure, Jad said.
Come on, Jad, Xerxes thought. Even you must realize how desperate you sound.
From this height and distance, it wasnt possible to make out the size or shape of any of therger Abhorrent that had fallen. But Xerxes was convinced he could detect movement.
Dasi sighed. We have a decision to make.
Yes, Jad said. Which route do we take to the Gatewayplex? Just looking at where those big meteorsnded, I can think of two options.
She didnt mean that, Kashtiliash said.
We already went over this, Jad said. Were going to the Gateway
Shut up, Jad, Xerxes interrupted.
W-what? Jad spluttered.
Just shut up, he repeated. We thought going back to the Gatewayplex was going to be an easy task. A quick run at top speed. But its not so simple.
Chapter 75: I Want Us to be Safe (2)
Chapter 75: I Want Us to be Safe (2)
Those big city walls are sounding more and more attractive, Dasi said. Were about halfway between Puabi and the Gatewayplex. The question is how many Abhorrent are between us and each location.
Jad muttered and cursed, but didnt say anything.
They continued to survey thends below them for a time.
We only have so much food, Katayoun said.
And mm, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes felt sick to his stomach. Based on what we could see in the sky, I feel like most of the meteors were falling to the west.
Agreed, Dasi said.
Going back to check the other side of the mountain would lose us half a day, he continued.
Waste of time, Jad growled.
Xerxes squinted his eyes in the hopes of getting some more details about one of the locations where a big meteor hadnded. Jad was right. Theborious climb back to a point where they could see the situation on the other side of the mountain range would lose them at least half a day of travel. More than that if the view of the other side of the mountain forced them tomit to the path to the Gateway.
Something big appeared in the sky. Another ball of fire that spunzily as tumbled downward.
Would you look at that, Kashtiliash said.
It fellzily over their heads, and it might have been beautiful if Xerxes didnt know what it contained. Something big.
It hit the ground what must have been five or ten leagues from the foothills below them.
Xerxes thought he sensed a tremor in the ground beneath him but couldnt be sure. A cloud rose up from the impact point.
Wind cleared the dust and smoke within minutes.
Which was when he saw the thing. It had four massive arms stretching from a central body. It started crawling, its hands brushing aside trees like they were weeds.
Holy Pontifarch, Dasi said.
Its like the one we fought before, Katayoun whispered. But bigger.
It was still too far to make out every detail, but it was definitely an Abhorrent.
Fucking shit, Jad said. Is that a mature version?
Kashtiliash shook his head. Doubt it.
Thinking back to Mystic Rabyas lessons, Xerxes said, Its not mature. But if a smaller version of that nearly wiped out our entirepany, are we four going to be able to do anything to it?
We know how to beat them, Jad said. We did it before, we can do it again.
I vote we go back, Kashtiliash said.
Youve got to be kidding me, Jad snarled. After all this, youre the traitor, Kash? Fuck you, you damned
Shut it! Xerxes yelled. His outburst silenced the tall mage. Xerxes looked at Dasi. What do you think?
She stared down at the location where the massive Abhorrent hadnded. Itsing in our direction.
Xerxes looked back down the mountain. It was true. The massive Abhorrent was on the move, and it was heading roughly in their direction. Not exactly toward us, though, he said.
Dasi shook her head. I dont like it. The bigger versions can sense us from farther away. Maybe that one down there isnting for us specifically, but how long until it notices us? Once it does, itll definitely make a beeline for us.
I cant fucking believe this, Jad said. Were almost there. You can see the shadow of the mountains on the horizon. The capital is just beyond that!
I thought we were supposed to be calling for backup, Katayoun said.
Jad flinched. He took a step closer to Xerxes. Look, Xerk-man, theres something I didnt exin before. My my familys in the capital. I have a sister. You do too, right? Would you let your sister end up stuck in an alley during an Abhorrent invasion? The way from the Gateway to the capital is clear. I can make it there and back really fast.
Xerxes thought about his sister Ahassy. And his parents. Jad, well take care of your family one way or another.
Jad stomped his foot. Youre the one in charge, Xerxes. So make the decision. If you want to be an asshole like Randy Gandy, that fucker, then go ahead and lead us back to that death trap of Puabi. You think some stupid castle walls are going to help against something like that? He gestured down at the huge Abhorrent. Newssh: its not. Our only hope is to keep going. So be a man and make the right decision.
Xerxes chest burned and his nose red. He forced himself to remain calm.
Kashtiliash and Dasi both wanted to head back. And the truth was so did he. Reaching out to Katayoun, he said, What do you want to do, Kat?
She hesitated. I want us to be safe. And going back to ck Jackal Company is probably the best way.
I think I agree.
What a waste. Days of travel. And now were separated from everyone else. Running out of food. Stuck in the open.
But if they didnt go back, then they would have to sneak past what could very well be tens of thousands, possibly even hundreds of thousands of Abhorrent.
We go back, he said.
Fuck off, Jad snapped.
Jad, youre not thinking clearly. The chances of us just sneaking past all those Abhorrent is minimal at best. Ourpany was decimated fighting an Abhorrent smaller than that one. With only the five of us fighting something like that wed be lucky to make it out alive.
Jad spat on the ground. I dont believe it. Theres no way you assholes are going to run back to Randy Gandy with your tails between your legs.
Xerxes looked at Kashtiliash. The bearded mage looked back at him, then turned and started walking back up the slope.
Xerxes reached out and took Katayouns hand. Together, they walked after Kashtiliash.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Dasi doing the same.
None of them looked back.
They made their way back up the way theyde. Even though it was uphill, the fact that theyd made the journey before made it slightly easier. As they neared the crest of the mountain, Xerxes looked over his shoulder and saw Jad a dozen cubits behind. Climbing with them.
Asshole, he thought. But at least Jad hade with them. Now all they had to do was get to Puabi safely, and maybe they could hole up ande up with another n.
Chapter 76: Nowhere to Run, Nowhere to Hide
Chapter 76: Nowhere to Run, Nowhere to Hide
Back up the mountain they went, then down. Jad muttered the entire way, and they ignored him.
Before long they were on the same teau theyd camped at previously. As Xerxes stood at the edge and looked down, the road seemed clear. There was no stream of movement like before.
See, the paths clear, Dasi said. Itll be a straight run, right back the way we came.
Then a muffled booming sound reached their ears, from behind them and further up the mountain.
What the hell was that? Jad said.
Everyone turned to look back up the mountain. Due to the terrain and trees, it wasnt possible to see the source of the noise.
We were just up there Xerxes said.
Kashtiliash frowned. We should go.
They started moving. Down the mountain slope and back to the road. There was clear evidence of the mass movement of Abhorrent, the road having been torn by countless wed feet. Their stink still lingered in the air as well. In fact, the road was in such bad shape that they had to stick to the side. They ran.
Five minutester, the ground shook beneath their feet so violently that Dasi lost her footing and fell, tumbling across the ground in a cloud of dust for several cubits before stopping herself.
Xerxes skidded to a stop and looked back.
This is bad, he said.
At the base of the mountain, just below the teau where theyd camped, as a massive Abhorrent. It was the same type as the one that had decimated ck Jackal Company, except bigger. It was prbably a hundred cubits in height.
Its at least a stage four or five juvenile, Katayoun said. But it could theoretically be a stage six. Or even mature.
It had four limbs that spread out in four directions from a bulbous torso. The limbs bent downward, ending in massive hands that could well have been human if they werent so massive. Xerxes saw no eyes, mouth, or any other distinguishing features. From this distance, it wasnt possible to see what kind of hide the creature had, but it seemed to be covered with some sort of writhing fur.
If it was mature, wed be dead already, Dasi said.
P-Pontifarch save us, Jad muttered.
Xerxes gritted his teeth. The Pontifarch isnt going to do a damn thing. We need to run. Now.
He turned and ran, pushing himself to elerate as rapidly as possible. Kat was at his side.
They ran. About thirty secondster, Xerxes looked over his shoulder. The Abhorrent hadnt moved.
What the hell is it doing? he yelled.
Kashtiliash was a few paces ahead and to the right. He nced back. Getting ready.
They ran a bit more. He looked back again.
Itsing! he yelled.
We cant outrun it, Dasi shouted.
Kat, what about Slow Death? Xerxes asked.
She thought for a moment as she ran, then said, It would take hours to kill a High Archon. A stage three juvenile would take something like two days to die. A stage six? Almost twice that long.
Xerxes looked back again. The massive Abhorrent was picking up speed, its four hand-limbs mming into the ground as it crawled across the ground.
Rabya had taught them to pick the battleground whenever possible when fighting Abhorrent. Use terrain to your advantage. On the disastrous ovend journey to Puabi, theyd never had that option.
What about now?
He thought about thends theyd crossed, as well as what he remembered from the map. Nothing came to mind as an ideal location to deal with the kind of monster that was pursuing them right now. It had apparently scaled a mountain and jumped down the other side with ease. Any nearby terrain that would cause a problem for it would cause even more problems for them.
We can hide, Jad shrieked. In a cave or something.
Xerxes nced at the mountains to the right. It was true that there were caves. They had passed some on their recent ascent and descent. But could they find a cave deep enough that this beast couldnt just bury them in it?
He looked back. It was only a few hundred cubits from them. There wasnt any more time. Just as he turned his head away, something attracted his attention. The Abhorrent was doing something different.
It had nted its forward hands on the ground, and the back two arms swung through the air.
His eyes widened.
Two massive arms arced up, and then down. Right toward them.
Speed up! he shouted.
He ran faster, his thighs aching, his arms pumping.
Then he was knocked off his feet. Or rather, blown off his feet. A deafening boom apanied a st of force that shoved him forward through the air for at least a dozen cubits. Then he hit the ground, and though he tried to maintain his gait, he failed. He facented, then tumbled head over heels through the dirt, before finally sliding to a stop.
Coughing dust, he squinted his eyes and looked back. The Abhorrents giant hands were nted into the ground dozens of cubits behind him.
His eyes darted to the left and right.
All the other mages were nearby, also having been flung off their feet.
Get up! he shouted, forcing himself into a standing position.
His eyes were mostly fixed on Kat, until he saw her struggling up.
Then he looked back at the Abhorrent. By now, the smell of the dusty road had been augmented by the stench of the monster. It was like boiled sulfur and burned honey, except a thousand times more acrid. He nearly gagged.
Worse, he now saw that the thing wasnt covered with fur. Nor did it have feathers. Instead, it was covered with thousands upon thousands of small, human-sized arms. They swayed like fur, but they were arms, the fingers of the hands undting and wing at nothing.
He felt dizzy as he tried toe up with a n for how to fight this thing. He remembered Mystic Rabyas words.
Abhorrent spawn might as well be mindless. But juveniles have brains and hearts. Regardless of the mages you have in your party, the Unsighted troops, the terrain, or the tactics, you will always have two main ways to kill them. Destroy the brain. Or destroy the heart.
But how could he possibly know where this monsters brain or heart was?
He was tempted to draw his longsword, but didnt. Not yet.
The Abhorrent seemed to be rooted in ce, unmoving. However, one of the smaller hand-limbs suddenly detached itself and dropped to the ground. No, it wasnt one of them. It was two, except they were connected by a single shoulder. Two hands. Two forearms. Two upper arms. The bizarre then flopped on the ground, then began walking toward him like a pair of disembodied chicken legs. Some distance to the left, another of the things fell to the ground. Then a third and a fourth.
Lets go! he bellowed. We have to find a ce to make a stand.
They ran.
The disembodied hand-limbs gave chase, but at a certain point, they copsed and disappeared into ash.
The thing has two magical powers, he thought. That meant it could either be a stage five or six juvenile. If it manifested a third power, it would mean it was mature. Please dont let it have three.
Look! Kashtiliash shouted.
Up ahead, a quarry had been dug into the side of a mountainous area, leaving something like a cliff behind.
Go! Xerxes yelled back.
They veered off the road and sped up the embankment, angling toward the top of the cliff.
There, they stopped very briefly to catch their breath.
Everybody okay? Xerxes asked, looking back down the road to the still-unmoving Abhorrent.
Fine, Dasi said. How are we going to kill this thing?
Xerxes forced out a grin. I like that attitude.
Unfortunately, attitudes didnt win battles. His mind raced. Based on thest battle, what options are the best?
Last time we just hacked at it until it died, Dasi said. And about half of us died in the process.
Fuck, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes looked at Katayoun. Kat, the effects of your spells stack up, right?
Technically, yes, she said. But even when full which Im not I could only cast Slow Death five times. And even then, it would still take hours to kill it. And thats not to mention the possibility of it having some sort of healing ability.
If it has healing, its a mature, Dasi said. And then were screwed no matter what.
Its not a mature, Xerxes said, more an expression of hope than anything else.
Dasi reached to herponent pouch. I can cast Minor Reshaping. Itll shrink it down for about a minute.
The brains got to be in the middle, Kashtiliash said. What if we two just jump up there and hack at it?
Off in the distance, one of the enormous hands lifted up off the ground, moved forward, then mmed back down. The thing was moving again.
Wild ns shed through Xerxes mind. What if Dasi shapeshifted into a huge wooden spike, and he physically stabbed her into the things center? No, tooplicated and risky. What if Jad cast Stronghold Deflection around the Abhorrent, trapping it in ce? No, Jad had never mastered the rune.
Fuck, he muttered. Kash, its too risky considering you cant cast Minor Augmentation. Alright Dasi, you shrink it. Ill jump over and try to stab its brain.
No way, Katayoun said, stepping over and grabbing his arm. Its too dangerous.
The Abhorrent was elerating rapidly in their direction. They didnt have much time.
Its our best bet, he said. He reached to hisponent pouch and drew out some stibnite talc.
Youre not going alone, Kashtiliash said.
I am. Keep Kat safe. Shes our lifeline if anything goes wrong.
The massive Abhorrent was closing in.
Dasi, get ready, he said.
I already am.
Then the giant Abhorrent loomed over them. Three of its massive limbs were nted on the ground, while one of the front appendages bent back, causing its hand to lift high overhead.
Its gonna smack us! Katayoun said.
An idea popped into Xerxes mind.
Jad, he said. Cast Personal Deflection as a t disc, right when the hand drops. If the shield pops into being, itll either sever the hand or trap it in ce.
All four mages stared up as the hand began to fall toward them.
Jad, did you catch that? Xerxes looked over. Jad!
Jad was standing in ce with his hand on hisponent pouch.
Get out of the way! Kashtiliash shouted.
Even as the hand blurred toward them, Jad reached into his pouch, grabbed some of his spellcastingponent, and started tracing his hand through it.
However, Xerxes wasnt going to bet his own life that Jad would get the timing right. Kat, run! he shouted, then dashed parallel to the cliff line. He looked behind him as he ran, and saw mm flowing around Jad. Then a sparkling light.
He did it!
Except, instead of spreading out dramatically, the light surrounding Jad like a cocoon.
Thats not a disc shape. Hes protecting himself?
Xerxes bent his legs and jumped. Keeping the stibnite talc held tight in his fist, he flew through the air, narrowly getting out from under the massive hand as it mmed down behind him.
He rolled onto his shoulder, spun, and got back up. He started tracing the Asgagu Sebum rune.
Meanwhile, Dasi was also casting a spell. Mm surged around her, and she jumped forward. Her tiny hand pped one of the Abhorrents huge fingers.
Where were Kashtiliash and Katayoun?
The fingers of the giant hand dug deep into the soil of the cliff, grabbing a massive amount of dirt that it took with them as the hand backed away.
Within that clump of dirt was a glimmer of light.
It has Jad, he thought. Please tell me he has some sort of n.
He spotted Kashtiliash and Katyoun several cubits away, on the other side of a massive handprint that now created a sort of ravine between them. They were safe.
This is my chance.
He took a running leap off the cliff.
As he did, Dasis spell began to work. The gigantic Abhorrent twitched as it shrank. Of course, it only affected the creature itself, so dirt began to spill out of its clenched hand.
Xerxes kicked his legs in midair as he flew toward it.
He mmed into its forearm. The flesh was grayish and wrinkled. The hand-limbs swayed away from him. As the gigantic monster shrank beneath him, he cast Minor Augmentation.
Chapter 77: Amen
Chapter 77: Amen
Another flying leap took him closer to the central body of the Abhorrent. As soon as hended, hands grasped at his ankles and calves, but he shed at them with his glowing de. He jumped again.
This time hended on a patch of open leathery skin. He ran forward.
I only have a bit of time before Dasis spell wears off.
A ragged scream reached his ears. He looked over. The gigantic hand was shrinking along with the rest of the creature, and dirt streamed out of its fingers as a result. It still had trapped Jad.
Xerk! Help!
How was he supposed to help? Im on it!
Xerxes flipped his sword around so he was holding it de down. He raised it over his shoulder. Then lunged forward and stabbed it into the Abhorrent.
The entire thing lurched, and he nearly lost his footing, staying upright only by virtue of holding the sword. Its tip, a mass of burning energy, bit into the creatures flesh with ease. He scrambled to find a better position, one of his feet finding purchase on a wrinkle in the Abhorrents skin.
Grabbing the quillons, he shoved the sword down.
An inhuman stream of shrieking speech exploded. He couldnt tell the source, nor make out any words, but it sounded like the Abhorrentnguage.
The arm that held Jad bent at the elbow, then snapped up. Jad flew out of the hand, screaming as he sailed in an arc going away from the cliff. The light of his shield winked out.
Shit, Xerxes blurted.
The hand which had thrown Jad now bent toward him.
He yanked his sword out just as the light of Minor Augmentation faded. The stabbing attack didnt seem to have done anything.
He leaped forward, rolling over his shoulder to avoid the hand that mmed down. Then he pulled out more stibnite talc. Then fingers of the giant hand bent, and then the thing crawled toward him almost like a spider.
He traced the Asgagu Sebum rune as fast as he dared, while simultaneously backing away.
A sh of light caught his attention: Kashtiliash had followed him. Unfortunately, despite being a High Seer, Kashtiliash couldnt cast Minor Augmentation yet, so he wasnt going to be of much help.
ncing around himself, Xerxes saw he was almost in the center of the Abhorrents body.
A second or twoter, his sword was once again an expression of energy.
The brain should be in the very middle of everything, he thought. He backed up a few more paces and stabbed the sword down, pushing it in as far as it would go. The Abhorrent shuddered. He began shoving the sword to the side, hewing a gash into the skin.
The hand was almost on him.
Kash barreled into it from the side.
Xerxes kept pushing. Putrid brown blood bubbled out of the wound.
Kashtiliash beat the finger with his glowing hand, punching burning holes into it, but overall, doing little damage. The brains down there, he yelled.
Its too deep, Xerxes replied.
Kashtiliash buried his hand in one of the huge fingers, then ripped down, while simultaneously pushing his hand inside the flesh. He must have struck a blood vessel, as a sudden eruption of brown blood spilled over his arm.
Another shriek from the monster split their ears, and the hand jerked away, nearly taking Kashtiliash with it.
Not pausing for a beat, Kashtiliash ran over to Xerxes. Got an idea, he said.
Using his feet, he pushed at the edge of the huge gash Xerxes had cut open. Then he wriggled down, wedging himself into the bloody open. He pushed with his legs.
The gap opened, apanied by the sound of flesh being torn.
The smell nearly made Xerxes vomit, but he could see what Kashtiliash was trying to do.
Keep pushing, Xerxes said, while simultaneously casting Minor Augmentation again.
Remember, these things dont have real skeletons, Kashtiliash said.
Right, too heavy.
Another hand was flying toward them.
The sword lit up. Xerxes hopped into the opening Kash had created. It allowed him to start his stabbing attack a good three feet further down. He pushed down, eventually stepping onto the quillons with his feet. He pushed.
The hand faltered.
He pushed down more.
A spasm ran through the Abhorrent.
Then it started falling.
Xerxes thought the fight was over. He was wrong. The Abhorrent toppled, mming into the ground with such force that Kashtiliash was dislodged, and was flung to the ground. But the monster wasnt dead. It began crawling, while at the same time, Dasis spell ran its course, and the creature started returning to its full size.
This is it.
If he didnt kill the creature right now, they wouldnt have any hope of reaching its brain.
Shoving his boot into a fold of the creatures flesh, he pushed harder.
The growing flesh enveloped his hands. His forearms. He pushed harder. The sword bit deeper. The creature around him spasmed.
Soon he was up to his shoulders.
He kept pushing.
The flesh writhed as if trying to eject him.
He took a breath as his head slipped into the slick, bloody interior flesh. He made a final push.
There was another twitch from the flesh around him, then it went still.
He pulled at the sword, but his arms didnt move. He wriggled his shoulders, trying to use his knees to pull himself out. He was stuck.
And he couldnt breathe.
He twisted his hips. Tried to shift the position of his feet. They slipped in the blood.
He panicked. Struggled.
Not gonna die like this!
Then he felt something grab his wrist. A hand.
Someone pulled on him.
He tucked his toes underneath the quillons of his sword. He moved a few fingers. A cubit.
Gasping, he slid out of the monsters flesh, flying through the air and tumbling down its side tond in a pile with Kashtiliash. His sword ttered down next to him.
Hey on the ground, the dead monster looming over him as he gasped for breath.
You did it, Kashtiliash said.
Barely. Thanks, by the way.
No problem.
Xerxes tried to ignore the disgusting fluids covering him. Jad, he said.
Fuck. Kashtiliash groaned and sat up. He got thrown to the east somewhere.
The sound of someone running reached their ears. Xerxes sat up and saw Katayoun speeding in their direction. She skidded to a halt next to Xerxes. Dasi wasnt far behind.
Are you hurt? Katayoun asked.
Not really. But Jad got thrown off the thing. We need to find him. Dasi, how are you doing on mm?
She hesitated. Im low. Really low. Enough for a Minor Alteration, but thats it.
There were Abhorrent everywhere. For all they knew, every second was another second before they were surrounded. And they needed to find Jad.
I have some pills I can give you afterward, he said. To make up for the mm. Can you transform into a hawk and scout the area?
She nodded. Done.
Dasi told them that, for the moment, the wider area was free of Abhorrent. She also helped them find Jad. He was some fifty cubits to the east, impaled on a tree branch, hanging upside down. The way his body was bent showed that his back was broken.
He was breathing but unconscious.
Arge tree limb emerged from his abdomen, which was what held him in ce some ten cubits above them. It looked like he had struggled to pull himself off the limb before losing consciousness. He was soaked in blood. In fact, it dripped down him so heavily that his face was covered in slick redness.
Dasi muttered something and looked away.
Kashtiliash spat a curse.
This is bad, Xerxes said.
Katayoun took a step closer and looked up. Her jaw twitched. She stepped back. Xerk, she said in a near-whisper, hes gone.
What? Xerxes squinted and looked at Jads chest. No, look. Hes breathing.
Thats not what I mean. The injuries are too severe for Minor Restoration to fix. Even if we got him off that branch, I couldnt close the wounds. I couldnt make up for the blood loss. I couldnt stitch his spine back together properly. Hes not dead but he will be soon. Look. She pointed at the pool of blood on the ground at the base of the tree.
Shes right, Kashtiliash said. He cursed again.
Xerxes gritted his teeth as tears built in his eyes. Theres got to be something we can do.
There isnt, Katayoun said. I can cast Minor Restoration and Slow Death. The next spell in the healing line is Blood Restoration, but I havent mastered the Btu Sanum rune. And Major Restoration is a Mystic spell. I wish I could do something.
She was right. Minor Restoration could heal small wounds, even wounds that could be potentially fatal, such as a cut to the neck. It could also mend broken bones. But the power of the spell wasnt enough to stitchrge holes, fix damaged organs, or rece lost blood. Jad still had life in him, but it was draining rapidly.
We cant just leave him there, he said. He might be in pain.
Katayoun put her hand on his shoulder. Hes unconscious. And given the blood loss, I dont think hell wake up. His heart will stop beating in minutes. Maybe seconds. The most humane thing would be to just let him pass in peace.
Xerxes fought to hold back the tears. I told him wed take care of his family, but I dont even know their names.
Katayoun squeezed his shoulder.
Dasi walked away and sat on a log with her back to the grisly scene. Kashtiliash leaned up against a tree and closed his eyes. Katayoun bowed her head.
But Xerxes kept his eyes on his friend. He watched the blood flow down from the wound. Jads breathing grew shallower.
He thought about their friendship. How Jad had taken the punishment for the botched Operation: Kat Walk. How hed tried to keep Enusat in check. His attempts at leadership.
What was the point?
Its not fair. Jad had his downsides, but hed been a good friend. Funny. Fun to be around. What had he done to deserve this?
Since when has life been fair?
Jad went still.
Xerxes bit his cheek and wiped his cheeks dry. Im sorry, Jad. Ill get revenge for you. And for Enusat. And everybody else. Arwia. Kuri. Laxu. Atra-Hasis. Ningal. Tizqar. And the Unsighted too. I promise.
Lets hurry, Katayoun said. We need to move.
It was grisly work, but they got Jads corpse down from the tree. They dug a shallow grave and covered it with branches and rocks. When the work was done, the four mages stood around the grave.
Someone should say a prayer, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes, thinking about his confusion regarding the Monad and the Pontifarch, said, Not me. Im not the right person.
Me either, Dasi said.
Kashtiliash looked at Katayoun. She looked back at him.
Im not a word person, Kashtiliash said.
Katayoun nodded. Ill do it. She sped her hands together in front of her and stood quietly for a moment. Then she closed her eyes and bowed her head.
Xerxes did the same as he reached out and put his hand at the crook of her elbow.
Almighty Pontifarch, Katayoun said, praise be to your name. Today we lost a friend, and we want to ask that you watch over him on his journey through the cycle of reincarnation. Please bless Jads soul.
Xerxes opened his mouth in preparation to say amen. Except, Katayoun kept talking.
Pontifarch, she said, were here fighting in your name. But we dont know what were doing. Were surrounded by the enemy. In over our head. None of us asked for this. They forced it on us. Some of us just want to live ordinary lives. Be happy. Have families. Children. But we know that as Sighted mages, we also have important responsibilities. Pontifarch, can you please turn your eye in our direction? Can you help us? Please.
Katayoun squeezed Xerxes hand between her elbow and her side, then went on, We dont want to die like our friend. We want to finish our mission. Maybe help some people. Then leave this and go home. If you care about your servants, and if you care about us Sighted, can you please send us your blessing? I beg of you. Please.
She squeezed his hand again. This, Pontifarch, we pray to you with all our hearts and souls. Amen.
Amen, Xerxes muttered.
Chapter 78: Unicorn District
Chapter 78: Unicorn District
After the prayer, Xerxes half-expected a surge of strength to blossom in his chest. Or streams of light to fall from the sky and bathe them. Some sign that the Pontifarch had heard the prayer.
There was nothing.
After saying their goodbyes to Jad, they went back toward Puabi as fast as possible. With the Abhorrent about, sometimes it made more sense to avoid the open road and take less-traveled routes.
They pushed themselves hard, and as a result there wasnt much time for conversation.
However, the monotony of running nonstop did provide ample time for thought. And Xerxes couldnt help but wrestle with countless issues. He went back to the moment he had first met Kashtiliash, Jad, and Enusat. Encountering Kashtiliash while eating street food. Jad and Enusat approaching him to ask about longswords. It had almost seemed like destiny that they ended up friends. All of them were students of the Epitome, a rarity in lower starisles. Yet they ended up as roommates on Sin-Amuhhu, where they started a club devoted to the sword.
He also thought about Gandash, and the things hed said.
You do have your new best friends.
We grew up together, right? Best friends, no matter what.
You got tangled up with your fucking Swordmasters. Over and over again youve shown that youd rather side with them than me.
Now Jad and Enusat were both dead. Hed lost them, and hed lost Gandash.
At least Kashtiliash was still there.
Then again, what did the bearded mage think about everything? Xerxes liked him, but had never heard him say much of anything. He knew precious little about Kashtiliashs background. He had no idea what he wanted in life. At best, Kashtiliash seemed to float along and react to everything without ever seeking his own path.
Then again, do I even know what I want?
Hours blurred together. Days blurred together. They followed roughly the same path theyd taken originally, hoping that, if Gandash had already aplished the mission and was heading back to the Gatewayplex, they would run into him. They didnt.
As Xerxes legs ached and his lungs burned, and the dust of the road caked on his arms and face, dark thoughts consumed him.
Some moments alone with Katayoun made him forget the rest. But the muck of travel that clung to them was difficult to deal with.
For the most part, they stayed away from any Abhorrent they spotted. But sometimes conflict was unavoidable. On three asions, they attacked the monsters without warning, wiping them out within less than a minute. Only once were they the ones caught unawares. During that hectic fight, Dasi suffered some serious injuries, but nothing that Katayoun couldnt deal with via Minor Restoration. Everything was made easier by the fact that all of the monsters they saw were types theyd dealt with before.
Xerxes lost track of exactly how much time they were on the road. One day, after going through a mountain pass, they caught sight of something on the horizon. A city, with smoke rising up from it. Not the smoke of destruction, but that of ordinary civilization.
They sped down out of the mountains and across the open ins and scattered hills toward their destination.
By the time the sun set behind the mountains, they were close enough that the city was a smudge on the horizon. At that point, they broke for dinner in some hilly terrain.
Our timing is good, Dasi said. Were starting to run out of lentils.
We could hunt if we had to, Kashtiliash said.
Maybe. Abhorrent will eat animals too. I bet theyre devastating the countryside.
True.
They ate quickly.
So how do we approach the city? Katayoun asked. Just go up to the front gates?
No, Xerxes said, thinking back to some of Mystic Rabyas sses. We have no Abhorrent on our tails. None in the entire area as far as we can tell. I say we take our time.
What do you mean?
Remember what Rabya said? The more you know about your enemy, and the less they know about you, the more of an advantage you have.
Isnt our enemy the Abhorrent? Dasi asked.
Xerxes scraped thest spoonful of lentils out of his bowl. Not necessarily. Remember, the original mission was to deal with unrest. We were supposed to escort some of the nobility out of the city. For all we know, we could be heading into a hostile environment.
At this point, Gandash has been there for days, Katyoun noted.
True, Xerxes said. If were lucky, then hes got everything worked out. But it wont hurt to spend a bit of time observing and nning.
Agreed, Kashtiliash said.
That night, they camped about half a league from the city, in a campground next to a river.
At dawn, they moved closer to the city, eventually finding a hilltop that provided a good view.
Dasi, though originally assigned to a heavy cavalry unit, was a Sinitu mage who had used her shapeshifting spells to do scouting. Thus, it was no surprise she had a spyss.
Producing it, she started scanning the walls. After a few minutes, she said, The gates are closed, she said. And the settlements outside the walls seem abandoned.
No surprise there, Kashtiliash said.
Yeah. Dasi continued looking through the spyss. I see a mage on the outer wall.
Anyone you recognize? Xerxes asked.
Looks fat, she said. I doubt its Tizqar though. Wrong proportions. She lowered the spyss. Want a look? she asked.
Xerxes shook his head. No, Im fine.
Id like to, Katayoun said.
While Katyoun looked at the distant city, Xerxes chewed his bottom lip.
What are you thinking? Dasi asked. Gandy must be in there. We didnt see any signs on the road to indicate he ran into trouble. Although I guess its possible they slipped off the road at some point to take a less-traveled route.
I know, he said. Im just worried that its been days. The mission was cut and dry, and he was dead set on doing everything efficiently. Why hasnt he started back to the Gatewayplex yet?
Things change, Kashtiliash said. The mission orders came months ago.
True, Xerxes said.
And you know what happens when you deal with nobility, Dasi said.
Xerxes looked at her. Not really. What happens?
She grinned. I dont know exactly. But dont they like to sit around with their thumbs up their asses all the time?
Kashtiliash grunted augh. Yeah.
Xerxes alsoughed. See anything, Kat?
I see a few soldiers with longswords. Isnt that strange?
Jad said Xerxes felt his throat tighten, and cleared it. Jad said theyd be all the rage recently. Thats why he and Enusat started studying the Epitome.
She lowered the spyss and handed it back to Dasi. Other than that, nothing jumped out. Theyre obviously on high alert. Lots of soldiers on the walls.
So what do we do? Dasi said.
Go knock on the gate, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes cracked his thumb knuckles. No. He paused as thoughts coalesced in his mind. No, we dont. Were going to sneak in.
Why? Katayoun asked.
We have nothing to gain by rushing in. And who knows what we might learn by taking our time.
True, Kashtiliash said.
How much do you remember from Mystic Rabyas lecture on covert infiltrations?
**
After facing hordes of Abhorrent, the idea of sneaking into a city seemed tame. But Xerxes heart was in his throat when they finally made the attempt.
Theyd discarded the idea of sneaking in through the sewers. A river ran through the city, so that provided options, but they didnt have enough intelligence to work with. Scaling the walls wouldnt have been too difficult. However, they did know that the city had defensive spell formations, just not where they were, or what exactly they did.
In the end, they decided on the age-old method of joining the throngs of refugees who sought refuge within the city walls.
They had rough traveling clothes, so that wasnt an issue. The biggest sticking point were the longswords, or more precisely, the fancy sheaths.
Although longswords were moremon than other lower starisles, sheaths such as the type avable in the markets of Sin-Amuhhu were not. Furthermore, the sheaths couldnt easily be concealed. In the end, they wrapped them tightly in waterproof oilskin, and buried them.
They also rubbed some cooking oil and dust on the des of their swords to make them seem of lower quality than they were. It wouldnt do anything to fool an expert, but for someone ncing casually at the weapons, it would suffice.
They devised a simple but believable story regarding their identities and reason foring to Puabi. They even did some role-ying to get ready for talking to the guards.
Except, the guards didnt ask about their story. They demanded an entry fee, nced at their swords, then waved them through.
Xerxes had spent about half a year on a wildly advanced higher starisle. Given that, he was struck by how shoddy everything seemed. Many of the streets were unpaved. Half of the building eaves were choked with cobwebs. The buildings were made of pitted wood or rough mud bricks.
The people were different, too.
On Sin-Amuhhu, even the beggars seemed to sit straight when they asked for money. But here, everyone slouched and looked out of the corners of their eyes. Weapons were everywhere. Most people had daggers at their belts, plus an additional weapon. Short swords were the mostmon. There were longswords as well, generally carried by people with finer clothing that the rest of the popce.
Did we just end up in a bad neighborhood?
After wandering for about an hour, it didnt seem so. The people, and the buildings, were the same everywhere. That said, there was an inner wall, and beyond it was the part of the city where the rich and noble lived.
There was no sign of Gandash. Of course, it was a big city.
Eventually, they stopped at a crumbling fountain to eat some tbread. Katayoun and Dasi sat on the fountain wall, Kashtiliash and Xerxes got on their haunches in front of them.
We should find a ce to stay, Dasi said.
Saw a few taverns along the way, Kashtiliash said.
Look, Katayoun said, nodding.
Across the road was a run-down building with the words amodations written over the door.
Yuck, Dasi said. Looks like a ce you could get a disease in.
Xerxes grinned. Which makes it perfect for us. Two rooms? Or three?
Kashtiliash looked at Dasi. Your call, Das.
Dasi looked back at him. I like the idea of a big bearded fellow watching my back. But if youy a hand on me without asking, Ill cut your dick off.
Kashtiliashs expression remained cid. You keep your hands off of me, and we have a deal.
Dasiughed. Deal.
They got rooms, then asked some questions of the proprietor, an older man named Zaidu who had ck hair that turned lighter as it went down his head, ending in white-tipped sideburns.
ording to Zaidu, they were in the Unicorn District, which he said was shitty and dangerous, but not as bad as some of the other ces.
king the Unicorn District was the Citadel Ward to the east, and the Tome District to the north.
They split into two teams to spend a few hours gathering information. Katayoun and Dasi went to the Tome District, which Zaidu said was a peaceful ce full of libraries. Kashtiliash and Xerxes decided to prowl the Unicorn Districts gambling halls and gray market outlets.
Same rules as the Institute, Katayoun said when they parted. No brothels.
No brothels, he said, nodded gravely.
The first gambling hall was around the corner. They lost a handful of minas on dice, but didnt get any information worth noting, other than the fact that there was a curfewing in a few hours.
They went down a few blocks to a cockfighting arena.
There, they heard some talk about a passing army, but didnt get much details other than some mounted troops and mages had been seen entering the city a few days ago.
At least we know theyre here, Kashtiliash said.
Yeah.
After the cockfighting arena, they went to another gambling hall. That was where they found the information they were looking for.
ording to a pair of half-drunk porters, foreign mages had arrived in the city only a few days previous, but had been arrested, and were now being held in some sort of prison in the inner city.
Chapter 79: Paper Bird
Chapter 79: Paper Bird
Xerxes and Kashtiliash didnt discuss the matter until they were back at Zaidus tavern, in a corner booth with ales in front of them.
What the hell happened? Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes took a long sip of ale. It was more earthypared to the ale on Sin-Amuhhu or even Mannemid for that matter, but he didn''t care. Your guess is as good as mine.
Probably politics.
What do you mean?
Factions. Scheming. That stuff happens in war.
Xerxes thought about it. The mission did have something to do with nobility. Lets wait until Kat and Dasi get back. They might have found out something else.
They didnt have to wait long. The two women returned less than fifteen minutester. Spotting Xerxes and Kashtiliash in the booth, they sat.
Did you hear the news? Katayoun asked. About Gandy and the others?
That they got arrested? Xerxes said.
We heard. Katayoun turned and waved at the only waiter on duty. More ale, she said.
We couldnt get any details about the circumstances, Xerxes continued. What about you?
We heard a few different stories, Dasi said. But in all versions, Gandy and ck Jackal ended up captured by loyalists.
Who? Kashtiliash asked.
There are two main factions vying for control of the city, Katayoun exined. The local nobility, headed by Sheik Hatim. And loyalists who side with the Mage Parliament from the capital.
Well shit, Xerxes said. Monsters are raining down from the sky, wiping out entire towns and cities, and theyre sitting around arguing about whos in charge?
Kashtiliash made a spitting sound. Nobles.
Exactly, Dasi said.
The server brought two more ales. Katayoun and Dasi took theirs.
Cheers, Kasthiliash said.
They drank.
Whats worse, Dasi said, is that the city to the north, Eresh, has been written off as lost to the Abhorrent. At least, thats what people are saying. And the mages here havent done jack shit about it. The attacks started in small waves. Then it turned into a tsunami. Some people escaped, but the stream of refugees stopped about two days ago. Now everyones expecting that tsunami to head in this direction.
Xerxes tilted his head. What did you say that city was called?
Eresh.
It triggered a memory for Xerxes.
Just dont forget me on your way back from Puabi, the constable Daniyel had said. That is where youre heading, isnt it?
Were actually traveling to the city of Eresh, Gandash had replied, north of Puabi.
Was it possible the constable Daniyel had been part of it all? Who else had been privy to their travel ns, other than the elite members of the military and the Parliament on Sin-Amuhhu?
What are you thinking? Katayoun asked.
He blinked. Nothing that matters right now. Our next step is obvious. We have to get to Gandash. Any chance you figured out where he is?
Dasi shook her head. Not exactly. But the city is basically split by the river. The west side, which were on, is loyalist territory. The other side is controlled by Sheik Hatim.
That exins what happened to Gandy, Xerxes said. He went to the main gate just like we did. Which is on the west side of the river. He walked right into loyalist territory. Probably got identified and led into a trap of some sort.
Kashtiliash took a sip of ale, then, keeping his head lowered and voice down, said, We should watch what we say.
Dasi looked furtively out at themon room. Good point.
We still have a few hours left to prowl the streets before the curfew, Xerxes said. Should we go back out and dig for some more information?
Yeah, Katayoun said. Should we start with him? She nodded her shoulder slightly to indicate the owner of the establishment, Zaidu, who was tending the bar.
Too risky, Kashtiliash said.
I agree, Dasi added. We have no idea where his loyalties lie. Say the wrong thing, we could end up right next to Gandy in jail.
I vote the same, Xerxes said. So lets head back out for another two hours and ask some questions. Same teams as before?
The female mages nodded, and they dispersed again.
**
The second trip was even less fruitful than the first. They gathered tidbits of information and details, but nothing actionable. For instance, it seemed certain that Gandash and the rest of ck Jackal were inside the inner wall, which was also where the main keep was. They also learned that the loyalist faction was led by a High Seer named Arshaka.
They determined the basicyout of the inner city, which consisted of four sections: Brightsword Ward, Sapphire Vige, Water Town, and the Market Warren. The first two locations were in loyalist territory, while the other two were controlled by Sheik Hatim. Also, the keep was in Water Town.
After meeting back shortly before curfew, they discussed their options.
Getting past the inner wall required a special pass that cost twenty shekels. It seemed primarily a way to keep out the low ss citizens. Neither Kashtiliash, Katayoun, nor Dasi had that much money on them. However, Xerxes still had some of Purattus loan money left, as well as some of the savings his parents had given him.
It made his heart sink to consider spending it on a silly pass, but the alternative was sneaking inside. And security on the inner wall was even tighter than on the outer wall. In the end, they agreed that Xerxes would buy the pass and go through the inner wall to look around. First thing in the morning.
They rose early. Katayoun apanied Xerxes to buy the entrance pass. As it turned out, the process was moreplicated than simply handing over money. There was an interview process that caught Xerxes by surprise. They wanted to know how he got the money, and what his business was past the inner wall. He made up a story about being a sword dealer looking for quality longswords. By throwing in some of the terminology he knew, he convinced the interviewer and got the pass.
Less than twenty minutester, he was making his way through the gate of the inner wall. That was when he found out that, if hed wanted, he could have brought his longsword. As long as you had a pass, you could bring weapons. Presumably the heavy presence of the city guardsmen was why. They were in pairs at every intersection, and also patrolling the streets.
Xerxes had grown up in the slums of Harborview. But hed prowled the rest of the capital city in his years. Hed been to Garden Terrace, sometimes with Gandash, and sometimes alone. He knew how to carry himself.
He walked with confidence, not looking at anything, yet at the same time, using his peripheral vision to study everything.
He headed east until he hit the river. To the right, the river went under the wall. To the left, it snaked through the buildings. From his vantage point, Xerxes could see two bridges. He walked along the waterfront, stopping every so often to lean out over the water. Before long, he could see the main keep rising up in the distance, on the other side of the water.
About an hourter, hed gone from the south part of the interior wall to the north part.
This ce isnt that big.
From the north, he made his way along the wall back to the gate hed entered through. That took a bit longer. But at least he had a better idea of the generalyout and size.
Alright, lets see if I can find a good ce to start asking questions.
Rich neighborhoods and poor neighborhoods were simr in many ways. Often, both had easy ess to gambling halls and brothels. The difference was how much money you needed to patronize such locations.
At the moment, Xerxes didnt want to spend any money that he didnt have to. So he wandered the streets in seemingly random fashion, while in reality criss-crossing the west side of the inner city in a way that would allow him to get an overview of the entire ce.
After another hour, hed seen about a quarter of the city from the south up. Of course, there were plenty of locations that were off limits. Entire blocks were walled off and gated. There were streets or alleyways controlled by heavily armed guards.
Bit by bit, he was working his way through everything he could.
On the very north section of Brightsword Ward, he found something very suspicious.
It was a nondescript five-story building upying an entire quarter of a city block. It had gray walls with no windows on the first two floors, and barred windows above that. But it was the spell formations that stood out to him.
Mage sight revealed aplexwork of glowing light that covered the entire first floor. He had to double back before confirming there was only one entrance, that being a heavy wood door on the south side of the building. It was unguarded, but mage sight confirmed that it had a huge concentration of spell formations.
Not being particrly proficient in spell formations, he wasnt sure what they were. But one thing was obvious; this ce was supposed to be secure against incursions by mages.
He left the area and went back to the river for about twenty minutes before circling back. Across the street from the five-story building was a three-story tavern. He went inside, climbed to the third floor, and took a seat at a window that gave him a good view.
Sipping an ale, he watched the ce. There were no signs of life or movement.
Maybe its nothing. A storage location for weapons and medicinal pills.
Then he saw movement in a third-floor window. Someone was inside. He narrowed his eyes in the hopes of making out more details.
Someone approached the barred window. A man, with numerous facial piercings.
Ningsummunu!
It was definitely the Sin-Masu mage, though he had several days worth of facial hair that he usually kept shaved.
I found them.
But now what? Ningsummunu left the window after a few minutes, and after that there wasnt any movement.
Xerxes ordered food and thought as he ate.
An hourter, there still wasnt any movement, and he had no ideas. The server took away his dishes and brought another ale.
Xerxes tapped the table as he eyed the building. The server brought the ale.
Say, Xerxes asked, is there a ce around here that sells paper and ink?
Sure, two blocks down.
Hold this table for me, Ill be right back.
You cant just leave.
Right. Here. He threw some minas on the table, plus extra. Is that enough? I want this same table when I get back.
Sure.
Fifteen minutester, he was back with a few sheets of parchment paper and some writing utensils. Thinking back to the Rabyas sses, he used a simple cipher to encode a message.
Its me, X. Can you get a message to G. Im here with a few others. What can I do?
Taking the paper, he folded it in half, then stuck a narrow piece of sharpened wood in the crease. He also put in a very small packet of dry ink. Then he proceeded to fold the paper several times in a specific way.
This is probably a dumb n. In fact, I know its dumb.
Sometimes, dumb ideas were the only ones that worked. After finishing the world, he had a small paper bird.
Waiting until the server had left the room, and after making sure no other patrons were watching, he stuck his arm out the window and tossed the bird. Then he prepared to rush down the stairs and out onto the street in case it missed its target.
It flew straight, then veered to the left.
Shit.
A gust of wind spun it to the right. It reached the window, going right through the bars.
I cant believe it worked. Seriously.
A momentter, Ningsummunus face appeared. Xerxes put his hand out the window with two fingers raised. The Sin-Masu mage saw him and nodded.
Then Xerxes waited.
The server came back a few minutester.
Found the paper, I see, he said.
Oh yeah, Xerxes said. Im just in the mood for poetry. Could I have onest ale?
Sure.
The server left, and Xerxes scratched a line of poetry onto the paper that he remembered from sses on Sin-Amuhhu.
Minutes ticked by.
And then a paper bird flew out of the window across the street. The wind caught it, and it fell to the pavement below.
Shit.
He got to his feet and was leaving just as the server returned with another ale.
Sir? the server said.
Uh. Xerxes paused, grabbed some minas and handed them to the server. Put it on my table. Ill be back in a few minutes.
He ran down the stairs.
Chapter 80: Bridges
Chapter 80: Bridges
Xerxes heart pounded into his throat as he raced down the stairs and the tavernsmon room. He slowed to a walk near the door, taking a deep breath to calm himself.
He stepped out onto the street as nonchntly as possible. Eyes darting left and right, he noted the locations of the city guard at either intersection. None paid attention to the paper bird that had just plummeted from the barred window of the prison. He nced at the prison itself and noted no signs of activity.
The paper bird was lying in the gutter. He picked it up. Keeping his gaze straight ahead, he crumbled it and shoved it in his pocket. He was tempted to leave the inner city, except that he had just told the server he would return. If he didnt, wouldnt that arouse more possible suspicion? Looking up and down the street again, he strolled back inside.
If someones watching me, I couldnt possibly look more suspicious.
He didnt see the server, but the ale was waiting at his table. After taking a sip he sat down and waited for his heart to stop pounding. He half-expected guards to pour out of the prison and rush at him. It didnt happen.
A few minutester, he pulled the paper out of his pocket and ttened it out.
The first thing he did was look to the bottom for a signature. There was a stylized version of the first letter in Gandashs name. Xerxes mouth twitched in a smile. He started reading.
X,
Be careful. Loyalists control this part of the city and they dont like us. You need to get me out of here, but dont try to break me out. Sheik Hatim is already negotiating my release. Get in touch with Seer Simeon or High Seer Musaru and offer your help. If possible, arrange to visit me in person. I have things to exin about the mission.
G
Xerxes read the paper again, then folded it up as many times as he could manage and stuck it in his boot. He finished his ale, left some money on the table, and left.
He made his way slowly back through the inner wall, then went to Zaidus.
Kashtiliash lounged at a table with a half-finished tankard. Xerxes sat with him. Given the lunch hour was approaching, they ordered some food.
Where are the girls? Xerxes asked.
Out asking questions. Should be back soon. You get anything good?
Yeah. Making sure no one was watching, he took out the note, unfolded it, and gave it to Kashtiliash. Around that time, Katayoun and Dasi entered.
The bearded mage read the paper and grunted. He gave the paper back to Xerxes. Very open-ended.
At least we have a direction now, Xerxes said as the two female mages sat down with them. I guess step one is to get in there and talk to Gandy.
Katayoun put her hand on his thigh and squeezed. You found Gandash?
Sort of. He gave her the note. She read it and passed it to Dasi.
Conforms to the new information we got, Katayoun said. Nothing worth mentioning at this point from us, at least as far as Gandy goes. We do know more about the political situation, though. For example, the High Seer Musaru mentioned in the note is Sheik Hatims principal adviser. If you have to talk to her, youre going to need to go across the river.
I saw bridges in the inner city, Xerxes said. Do they just let people go across?
Basically, yes, Dasi answered. But people associated with either factionmages, soldiers, whateverarent allowed through. I also got the impression they have lists of other people who they screen.
Like us? Kashtiliash asked.
I doubt it, Katayoun said. We didnt get any indication people know about us. Gandash and the others mustve kept their mouths shut.
The food arrived, cutting their discussion short.
Xerxes washed down some couscous with a mouthful of ale. Im thinking we need to find a new ce to stay. This ce isnt bad, but were on the wrong side of the river.
I agree, Dasi said. If Gandys here for Sheik Hatim, that means were basically in enemy territory.
No time to waste, Xerxes said. Lets do it now. And we do it very carefully. For all we know, theyre expecting other members of ck Jackal, but that isnt known publicly. So we cross one at a time using different bridges. Agreed?
After finishing the meal, they settled the tab with Zaidu and went through the city to the east. After reaching the river, they walked south toward the nearest bridge, an open-air crossing that was wide enough for two carts to cross at the same time. Finding one of the numerous boardwalk balconies overlooking the water, they watched the bridge for a time to get a sense of how to pass it.
Seems simple enough, Katayoun said. The guards let most people through, but randomly pull people over for questioning.
Every ten or fifteen people, Kashtiliash added.
Look over there, Dasi said, pointing to a spot north of the bridge. There was a smoking cafe overlooking the river, with outdoor seating under parasols. Why dont we meet up there after we all cross?
Okay, Xerxes said. Dasi, you ready?
Yeah.
Dasi left them, circling back through some streets and alleys. When she strolled across the bridge, the guards pulled her to the side.
Shit, Xerxes said. Whats happening?
Fuckers think shes hot, thats all, Kashtiliash said.
Katayoun made a spitting sound. Kashs probably right.
A minuteter, Dasi continued on her way. Just like that, shed crossed. Xerxes led the way as they proceeded north toward the next bridge.
If they pull me to the side, Katayoun said, theyd better not touch me. Ill make them regret it.
Do it, Xerxes said.
But carefully, Kashtiliash added.
Katayounughed. Im just kidding. Lets go.
They spent a few minutes observing the situation at this second bridge. The process for crossing seemed exactly the same.
See you on the other side, Kash, Katayoun said. Xerk, do your thing thene find us back here. Well get another room and all that. She pulled him to her and kissed him.
Watch yourself, Xerxes said. And remember, if I can pull off a miracle, I will. Dont expect me to meet up immediately.
Then she was off. Xerxes and Kashtiliash watched as she crossed the bridge. The guards didnt pull her aside. They continued northward to thest bridge in the outer city.
See you, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes waited to make sure Kashtiliash made it across the bridge safely, then went back to the gate hed already crossed through. One of the guards on duty recognized him and waved him through. Back inside the inner city, he took his time getting to the river.
The southernmost bridge was thergest and nearest, so he went in that direction.
Unlike the bridges in the outer city, these ones were covered, making it difficult to see what went on inside them. However, he could still see who wasing in and out of the bridge, so he picked a spot somewhat to the north that provided a good view. He waited for about an hour, watching the trafficing and going.
The main thing that concerned him was his sword. Whether on Mannemid or Sin-Amuhhu, his status as a mage and a student meant that hed never felt awkward carrying around a big weapon. But here, he was supposed to be an ordinary person, and it felt like the sword drew attention.
During the hour that passed, he saw one person with a longsword enter the bridge. And two came out. They wore different styles of clothing, but none were soldiers or mages. In terms of the actual weapons, he was too far away to judge their quality, but they seemed more than junk.
After seeing multiple longsword-wielders crossing the bridge, he felt more confident that his weapon wouldnt be a problem. Taking a deep breath, he walked to the bridge with his sword held in the crook of his arm.
The bridge was divided in half, offering paths of traffic in either direction. On the left-hand side, people from the other side of the river were being questioned by soldiers in the uniforms hed grown used to so far. Brown cloth with green highlights. They seemed to be questioning everyone.
Xerxes stepped onto the right-hand path, joining a line of about eight people. As the line moved forward, he realized that the soldiers on the other side were indeed stopping every person to ask questions.
The wait was maddening. Soon, he was next in line to be questioned, so he fidgeted as the soldiers about ten feet away talked to a young woman. He noticed that the soldiers here had the same uniforms. He could only guess it meant that the loyalist faction controlled this bridge entirely.
The soldiers eventually waved him over.
Name and purpose for crossing? one of the soldiers asked.
Tamharu son of k, he said. Im looking for a sword upgrade, and I heard theres some nice stuff in Market Warren.
You study the Epitome? a voice asked, high and grating.
Xerxes turned to see a young man entering the facility.
If Xerxes was to guess, he was probably about the same age as himself. But after the traveling, thebat, and the loss of life Xerxes had seen, there was something about this young mans sparkling eyes that made him seem immature.
But what made Xerxes heart thump was the young mans white, conical hat. And his robes, which were the same type that Enusat and Jad had worn when he first met them. It was the Jehannemid fashion for mages. This neer was a mage!
What was more worthy of note was the fact that the young mage had a longsword attached to a fancy sheath on his back. Xerxes impression had always been that people with sheathes like that were serious students of the sword.
Seer Eskinder, the guards said, and to a man they stepped back and bowed their heads respectfully.
Eskinder stopped about five cubits from Xerxes. I asked you a question.
Sorry, Sir Mage, Xerxes said hastily. Er, Ive heard of the Epitome. And I even took a few lessons. But I cant im to be a student of it.
Is that so?
Xerxes nced at Eskinders feet, and noticed that his stance was wide. His knees werent bent, but all it would take would be for him to slide his front foot forward, and he could draw his sword and be in the Skyward guard.
Thats right, Xerxes said. I wish I had the time for the Epitome, but my duties Xerxes scrambled for a suitable story, and cursed himself for not preparing something in advance as a fishmonger make it hard to spend time on swordy. I keep the sword mostly for show and fun.
Many do in this city, Eskinder said. Mind if I look at your de?
Xerxes had the feeling hed made a mistake, though he wasnt sure what it was. And he felt hesitant. He didnt want to hand over his weapon to this mage. But Eskinder had worded it more like an order than a request. And even if it had been a request, was it smart to refuse?
Of course, Xerxes said, letting his sword slide down a bit, then grabbing it by the base of the de and handing it to Eskinder.
The young mage smiled and stepped forward. His eyes seemed locked on Xerxes as he took the sword. He stepped back.
Xerxes stood in ce, his heart pounding. Come on, look at the thing and hand it back to me. Then let me go. Nothing to see here.
This is a nice weapon, Eskinder said. He rubbed at the de. Theres a lot of oil and dirt on it. He rubbed some more of the de clean. Nice steel. Either youre an idiot who doesnt know how to care for a weapon, or he looked back up at Xerxes you didnt want anyone realizing you have a very quality sword. This is the kind of weapon you dont generally see on a ce like Jehannemid. Id expect someone from Ira to have a sword as nice as this. Maybe even someone from Ku-Aya. The young mages eyes narrowed slightly. Who are you?
Xerxes bit his lip and looked over his shoulder. He lowered his voice. Look, the truth is that I dont know anything about swords. This one used to be my grandfathers. He took it as payment in some kind of business deal before I was born. He died a few years ago, and my dad inherited the sword. I know the things worth a ton, and given whats going on, I want to cash out. My dad doesnt know. Look, Ill give it to you if you want it. A hundred shekels. Or, no, how about eighty?
Xerxes tried to make himself sound as desperate as possible. The sword wasnt worth half that, so he wasnt worried about actually losing it. He just wanted to sell his act.
Eskinder looked back down at the sword. If you think youll get fifty for this thing, youre delusional.
Without any warning, he tossed the sword in Xerxes direction. Xerxes grabbed it out of the air with one hand, then lowered it to his side so the tip pointed behind him.
Thank you, Sir Mage, he said. I can only hope to find someone in the Market Warren who
Eskinder reached back, grabbed the hilt of his sword, and slid it out of the sheath, then stepped into the Skyward guard. Youre not going anywhere yet. Given the way you handle that weapon, I think you do know of the Epitome. So get ready to take a blow.
Chapter 81: You Do Know the Epitome
Chapter 81: You Do Know the Epitome
Xerxes formted a n to continue his charade, but before he was able to say another word, Eskinder stepped forward and brought his sword down in the Wrath strike.
Xerxes gripped the hilt and pulled his sword up into the Bull guard.
Steel nged.
Xerxes shifted backward and brought his sword into Longfacing. His heart raced: this was no sparring match. Back in the Institute, they had used wooden swords, and usually donned protective gear when sparring. This was a different situation entirely. Eskinders sword gleamed, the steel having been sharpened to a razors edge. The slightest misstep could lead to drawn blood or worse.
Eskinder grinned and went back into the Skyward guard, except with the sword nearly vertical across his shoulders. You do know the Epitome. Who are you?
Xerxes eyes swept the room at the end of the bridge. The guards were all hanging back. Three had short swords. One had a crossbow. The door was behind Eskinder. Lattice covered the windows.
The people forming the line to the other end of the bridge were backing away, spooked because of the sh of steel.
I just want to cross the bridge, Xerxes said.
Eskinder took a full step forward and made as if to strike. Xerxes danced to the side. Then Eskinder unleashed abination of blows that came so fast Xerxes was sure he would have been killed if he was a normal person. Instead, his instincts kicked in. He blocked an upward strike, sessfully predicted Eskinders followup blow, and then managed to counterstrike, aiming at his opponents neck, but holding back at the veryst microsecond.
Eskinder lunged backward, his eyes wide. Then his lip curled a bit. You dont just know it. Youre good at it.
I could have killed you, Xerxes thought. Youre right. Ive studied a bit. Look, longsword fighting is rare here on Jehannemid. But not unheard of. I took sses in the capital.
Eskinder was still in abat stance, although this time he had his sword in the Reaping guard.
I dont give a shit where you took your lessons, Eskinder said. Its illegal to strike a mage, so put your sword down and submit to the guards. Then we can talk more about your background.
Illegal to strike a mage? Xerxes didnt remember hearing anything about that. Like hell, he said.
Fine.
He lunged, swinging the sword more like a club than a de. It seemed he nned to use his enhanced Seer strength to knock the sword out of Xerxes hand. And if Xerxes had been an Unsighted, it would have worked. But he wasnt. What was more, he had sparred extensively with High Seers, and even with his teacher, Mystic Rabya.
Because of that, hezily leaned back, letting the sword pass. Then he stepped forward, grabbed Eskinders wrists, and shoved them. He used enough force to destabilize him and throw him to the side, but not enough to make it obvious that Xerxes was physically superior. Then, as the young mage lurched to the side, Xerxes pulled his foot back and kicked him.
Eskinder flew across the bridge, crashed into one of thettice window coverings, and nearly fell out.
Xerxes didnt sit around to see what happened after that. He burst forward, knocking aside the guard with the crossbow and then using his shoulder to crash through the door. The room beyond was smaller and had another door. He kicked it into splinters.
As shouting reached his ears from behind, he jumped out into the open. Simr to the other side of the river, there was a public square with soldiers. These ones wore uniforms of white and red. He also saw a woman with a conical hat standing off to the side, wearing mage robes of a simr color scheme. It made it more than obvious that this group was from the opposing faction.
He dashed forward two or three steps, then spun in ce and held his sword out in Longfacing.
Stop! Eskinder screamed from the doorway of the bridge.
He had his sword in one hand, but his hat had been knocked off, causing a tangle of disheveled hair to hang off his head. He was panting, and his garments had a few rips and tears in them.
The female mage stepped into the middle of the square, cing her roughly perpendicr to Xerxes.
Dont take another step, Eskinder, she said.
Hes a mage, Yahel, Eskinder said, trying to control his panting. Unregistered. He could be a cultist.
Keeping his voice as low as possible so that Eskinder couldnt hear, Xerxes turned to the female mage Yahel and said, Hes right that Im a mage. Im not a cultist though. Im with the ck Jackal Company under Captain Gandash. I need to talk to High Seer Musaru.
Yahel looked at him. Noted. Mind putting your sword away?
He shifted his gaze to Eskinder, who was gripping his own sword with two hands.
Yahel chuckled. He wont step off the bridge. He could win a fight against me, but not even High Seer Arshaka would forgive him for disrupting the status quo.
Suppressing a frown, Xerxes flipped his sword around and rested it in the crook of his arm. Im Xerxes, he said.
Yahel, but you probably heard that. Raising her voice, she said, Im taking him into my care, Eskinder. You might want to go home and change clothes. You look like a beggar.
The soldiers behind themughed.
You should show some respect, Yahel, the young mage said. When Arshaka finally takes his rightful spot over Hatim, you wont beughing.
Goodbye, Eskinder. She turned on her heel. Come with me Seer Xerxes?
He cleared his throat. High Seer.
He followed her as she left the public square and set a stiff walking pace through the streets beyond.
A High Seer. Very interesting. Mind giving me a quick exnation of what youre doing here?
Sure, he said. Im First Lieutenant Xerxes from the ck Jackal Company. Me and some of the others tried to get back to the Gatewayplex to get help from higher starisles. But we couldnt, so we returned here.
Watch your head, Yahel said.
He ducked as she led him through a very low archway, beyond which was a low-ceilinged tunnel that went for about fifteen feet. Emerging from the other end, Yahel said, Go on?
Not knowing the political situation, we snuck into the city, but ended up on the other side of the river. I managed to make contact with Captain Gandash, and he said to find High Seer Musaru. I crossed the bridge, but then that fellow Eskinder started asking questions and things escted.
You study the Epitome? Yahel asked.
Yeah. Im not an expert, but Ive done my fair share of sparring.
Eskinder has a reputation for being quite good. I heard the sh of steel before you burst out into the open. You fought him?
Xerxes shrugged. It wasnt much of a fight. I knocked him aside and then ran.
Yahel stopped walking as they reached a busy intersection. As they waited for a line of mules to pass, she looked at him with eyebrows raised. You knocked Eskinder aside? Hes going to hold that against you.
Let him.
Sheughed. They went through the intersection and then into an alley filled with olddies hangingundry.
On the other side, they stepped out into another public square. Across the square was arge wall with a gate, beyond which rose the keep.
Yahel looked at him. Earlier, you said we.
Thats right. Im here with a few others.
Also mages?
He nodded in the affirmative.
I see. She gestured at the looming castle. You can see where we are. This is a side courtyard. Ill go announce you. However theres a question youll surely be asked. You seem like a straightforward person, so Ill pose it now to give you a chance to prepare your answer.
Thanks, Xerxes said, wondering what she was getting at.
ording to Lord Hatim and High Seer Musaru, your ck Jackal Company was supposed toe here to escort Lady Erabu to the Gatewayplex. We have quite a few mages here in Puabi, between the loyalists and the sheikists. But not many High Seers. Only five, in fact. Your presence alone will tip the scales.
Brow furrowed, he nodded. What was she getting at?
The question is why Captain Gandash would send a High Seer away right before entering the city. He knew there was a vtile political climate. And then theres the Abhorrent. Why did he split his forces at the most critical juncture? He only got arrested because he ran into High Seers Arshaka and Levia together at the same time. If youd been there, he probably wouldnt be in that silly prison.
Like I said, he wanted us
She raised her hand to cut him off. I heard. But that exnation strikes me as iplete at the very best. High Seer Musaru is over two hundred years old. Shes shrewd, and I bet shell press you on the subject. So be ready.
He nodded. I will. Thanks for the warning, Yahel.
No problem. Now, see those benches over there? Have a seat while I go make the arrangements.
Xerxes went over to a circle of stone benches and sat down, putting his sword on his knees. His heart was still racing from the fight and the subsequent walking. As he sat there, it slowly returned to normal.
With nothing else to do, he considered the issue mentioned by Yahel, and also pondered his story in general.
Theres no point in dancing around things, he thought after a while. Ill just tell the truth.
Hed assumed it would only be a minute or two before he was let into the keep. But after fifteen minutes, he was still alone in the courtyard.
He thought about the short sh with Eskinder. The young mages footwork. How hed thrown his attacks.
Xerxes shuddered at the thought of how different it was to duel with sharpened steel and no protective gear.
The door opened and Yahel leaned out. Ready, High Seer Xerxes?
He stood. Yes.
Follow.
He entered the dark, cool hallways of the keep.
There were formalities. A further round of questioning by another mage, a High Seer named Simeon. Whether it was by chance or not, Simeon knew the Epitome, which led to a conversation on the topic.
Xerxes was asked to surrender his sword and hisponent pouch. They also required him to swear a blood oath, making him think back to Archon Shabadras words. Blood oaths are meaningless.
He cooperated with everything.
Only then did he find himself in an audience chamber with High Seer Musaru. If Yahel hadnt told him she was over two hundred years old, he would have pegged her as being middle-aged. She had gray hair at her temples, freckles on her olive skin, and wide lips.
She was friendly but professional, plying him with questions that, for the most part, he had already answered in his conversations with Yahel and Simeon.
The main difference in this conversation came when she asked, What is your purpose here?
I was never privy to the details of the mission, he said. Captain Gandash kept that to himself. I know we were supposed toe here and provide some service to the nobility. I suppose that means Sheik Hatim. Earlier, Seer Yahel mentioned someone named Lady Erabu? I guess it has something to do with her.
Why did you part ways with Captain Gandash?
He swallowed. We had some heavy losses on the way here. Captain Gandash agreed to let some of us go back and try to make contact with Sin-Amuhhu. Make a request for backup. As I told Yahel, that journey didnt go well. More Abhorrent have arrived on Jehannemid, and we didnt think we could make it to the Gateway.
Musaru nodded. You make it sound like it was a group of you who went back to the Gateway.
Thats right.
Were all of you High Seers?
He wasnt sure about the point of the question, but he knew it was relevant. She was digging for information. Dammit, Gandy, you would know what this is all about.
Yes, all of us were High Seers.
How many?
Xerxes felt like he was falling into a trap but couldnt put the pieces of the puzzle together to figure out what it was. There were five of us.
Five High Seers? Musaru said, her eyes widening.
Of course, the bnce of power. He felt stupid for already forgetting what Yahel had mentioned about the situation in the city.
Musarus eyes narrowed. Wait. There were five? There arent five anymore?
Not all of us made it back.
I see. Musaru took a sip of water. I can tell youre nervous about answering my questions. I think thats understandable. Id be nervous if I were in your ce. So let me exin. Sheik Hatim is the rightful ruler of this city. Hes the most senior of all the High Seers, is over three centuries old, and has proven himself as a leader for decades. Hes called into question some of the decisions of the Mage Parliament. Because of that, they branded him a traitor and demanded he submit to being arrested and put on trial. He obviously refused.
The loyalists in the city want to carry out the orders of the Mage Parliament. They outnumber us. They have three High Seers to our two. They have five ordinary Seers, and though we have an equal number of Seers, of those on our side, three of them only recently broke into that level.
If we could get some High Seers on our side, it could really tip the scales. Of course, Arshaka, who leads the loyalists, knows that. Thats why he arrested Captain Gandash and the rest of yourpany as soon as they arrived.
And thus, Im curious how many of you there are. With enough strength, we could theoretically just walk over there and force them to free your captain.
She stopped talking. Xerxes digested her words. Everything made sense. Except for one thing.
What about the Abhorrent? he asked.
What about them?
Arent theying here?
Reports indicate they are, yes.
He tried to keep his facial expression even. Wouldnt it make sense to put your differences aside and fight the damn monsters? he asked. Who cares about the Mage Parliament if you all end up dead?
She smiled. A bunch of Abhorrent spawn arent going to wipe us out. We have more mages here in Puabi than any other single city on Jehannemid. If ites to a fight, well fight with the loyalists. But that doesnt mean we need to break bread.
He exhaled. Stupid people.
So Id like to ask again, she went on. How many of you are there?
Xerxes pondered the question. He thought about Rabyas lessons. What was the right decision?
More than me, he finally said. Ill tell you the specifics if you promise to arrange a meeting between me and Gandash. Today.
She looked at him. Fine. I can make that happen.
Chapter 82: The Key
Chapter 82: The Key
The difference between Unsighted and Sighted was that thetter could see mm energy flowing through all creation. They could see it flowing when mages cast spells, either directly when that mm exited the mages body, or indirectly because of the way it affected external mm. But when a mage wasnt casting spells, it wasnt possible for another mage to identify whether or not they were Sighted.
During teen years, when the gift of being Sighted manifested, there were testing methods that allowed mages to identify those rare youths who had the talent. But not even the spells of Hasasu mages were useful in identifying a Sighted who didnt want to be identified.
Only the Annunaki had eyes which could pierce the veils of the mortal coil, and see into the chambers of energy that identified the Sighted.
This led to a very practical way for Xerxes to meet Gandash. Simply put, he would walk into the prison as part of one of Sheik Hatims delegation.
The loyalists knew that Gandash hade for some purpose rting to Sheik Hatim. What was more, they knew that giving the sheik more mages would be disadvantageous to their cause. However, the fact remained that ck Jackal had been dispatched by the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces, and had orders from High Archon Kingallu himself.
So they could only keep Gandash and the other ck Jackals detained for so long. Musaru said it would only be a matter of days before the loyalists had no choice but to release him.
The meeting scheduled forter today, she concluded, is supposed to be when the deal is finalized. If things go as expected, it will be the final negotiation leading to Captain Gandashs transfer. Part of the visit involves a personal conversation with the captain himself. Seer Yahel will lead the delegation. If youre willing, you coulde along, disguised as one the Unsighted soldiers. If youmunicate with Captain Gandash mentally, no one will be the wiser.
What about my fight with Seer Eskinder? Xerxes asked. He saw my face. So did the other guards on the bridge.
Musaru inclined her head. You have typicalplexion and facial features. Put on some armor and different clothing, I doubt youll stand out. As Im sure youve experienced on Sin-Amuhhu, mages tend to ignore Unsighted troops.
She had a point.
Alright, lets do it, Xerxes said.
Though the meeting was hourster, there was much to do after he parted ways with Musaru.
Back in Yahels care, he met with the group of soldiers amongst whom he would disguise himself. They taught him some of their basic protocols and formations. He changed into a soldiers uniform, and was given a spear and a shield.
He knew the basics of spears and shields, but there was a special way these Puabi soldiers liked to hold their gear, and it took a bit of practice to master.
Then he had a light evening meal with Yahel.
Once we cross the bridge, she said, youll be an ordinary soldier who needs to stay silent. So nows yourst chance to ask questions. Anything on your mind?
I think weve covered the n well, including all the contingencies.
Agreed. If all goes well, youll have your conversation with your captain, and then hell be on our side of the river two days hence.
Out of curiosity, whats the negotiation about? Musaru never mentioned the details.
Yahelughed softly. The loyalists want money.
Money?
Politics and government all revolve around money. Sheik Hatims ancestors have ruled Puabi for generations. He has wealth the likes of which High Seer Arshaka can only dream of. Of course, the treasury is on this side of the river, as are most of the banks. The loyalists have granaries and warehouses, but grain and trade goods dont directly pay for soldiers sries or mages spellponents.
In my belief, this charade of them arresting ck Jackalpany is all about money. Theyre essentially ransoming them to Sheik Hatim to fund their little rebellion.
Based on what Xerxes knew so far, he wasnt sure rebellion was the right term. If the loyalists were tied to the Mage Parliament, didnt that mean Sheik Hatim was the rebel? Perhaps it didnt matter, at least to ck Jackal.
So theyre just asking for gold shekels or something?
That and some other things. The sheik doesnt want to give them actual gold. Well likely hand over some of the royal museum gallery.
Xerxes cocked his head. Museum gallery? Why?
Because the items in the gallery are worth a lot of money. A lot more than their grain and whatnot. And Sheik Hatim doesnt care much about a bunch of tapestries,sculptures, and the like. Besides, it will take time for the loyalists to convert museum pieces into gold. By the time they do, we might turn the tables on them, and get back everything we paid.
Makes sense.
They finished their meal and made the final arrangements. It felt like only minutes had passed since his sh with Eskinder, and now he was going back in the direction of the river. However, they didnt use the bridge hed crossed earlier. Instead, they went to the next bridge to the north.
A loyalist mage met them there, a Seer Yosef who had long hair and a patchy beard. He smiled and offered a greeting, and Yahel approached. Behind Yosef were fifteen soldiers, much more than the eight of whom Xerxes was part.
There were some formalities, and then they were across the bridge and walking through the streets. It seemed Yosef and Yahel knew each other, as they walked together and chatted in low tones. As for the troops, the loyalist soldiers led the way, while Xerxes and the sheiks troops followed after the mages.
Pedestrians hurried out of their way. Who wouldnt, in the face of mages and armed troops marching with purpose?
Before long, they were in front of the prison building that Xerxes recognized. Inside, Yosef led Yahel to an audience chamber. The heavy wood door was sufficient to block any sound from inside. Xerxes and the soldiers waited outside while she went inside. The soldiers started chatting. Some of the loyalist troops knew a few of the sheiks men, and there didnt seem to be much animosity between the two of them.
Its like this whole thing is a big game.
An hourter, Yahel emerged.
I have other matters to attend to, Yahel, said Yosef. The sergeant here will escort you up to the cell block to talk to Captain Gandash. Then back down. He smiled. Behave yourself.
As always, she replied.
He left with his soldiers.
Xerxes found it all very interesting. The loyalists didnt seem to be very worried that Yahel would cause any trouble. Perhaps he could use that to his advantage at some point.
The Unsighted sergeant led the way to a higher level in the prison building. There were a few guards present, but not many. And those they did encounter didnt seem nervous in the presence of the enemy.
Wait right ere, Seer Yahel, the sergeant said. Ill make the arrangements.
He slipped through a door and returned a few minutester. The captains ready to see you.
Yahel gestured at Xerxes and another soldier. You two,e with me. The rest stay out here. Well be back shortly.
Shortly thereafter, they entered a small side room. Gandash was in the room, sitting at a rough wood table, his hands secure in manacles that were built into the table itself.
His eyes darted to Xerxes for only a moment before he focused on Yahel.
Good to see you again, Seer Yahel, he said.
Xerxes noted that Gandash was in good condition. He had no injuries, and didnt seem any worse for the wear.
Likewise, Captain Gandash, she said. You two she looked at Xerxes and the other soldiers, take positions nking the captain.
Anything else, Seer? the sergeant asked.
No, well only be a few minutes.
While the sergeant left, Xerxes got into position against the wall. The range on High Seers mage sight and mage touch was short, so it was a delicate bnce to look natural while getting close enough tomunicate with Gandash.
Captain, there are a few things I want to exin, Yahel said. At the same time, she gave Xerxes a meaningful look.
Of course, Seer Yahel, Gandash said. Have the negotiations been going well?
Yes, allow me to exin what will happen in the next few days. She continued talking.
Projecting his thoughts, he said, Gandy, Im here with Kash, Dasi, and Kat. What do you want us to do?
Our mission is to retrieve something called a Gateway Key, Gandash replied. Its a device that allows anyone to travel through Gateways unrestricted. Up and down. You must keep the existence of this device a secret. You can imagine the implications if the Abhorrent acquired it.
It required no imagination on Xerxes'' part. Where is it? he asked.
Purattu hid it in the keep, in a bronze sculpture of a tree. He said its hidden in in sight, with other simr sculptures. You should be able to identify its location without arousing suspicion. The head of the Key has three heart-shaped sections. The sooner you get it, the better. Preferably before Im transferred into Sheik Hatims care. The sheik wants to use us in his bid for supremacy on Jehannemid. I have no intention ofplying with his wishes. As soon as were free, and have the Key, well leave this ce.
I understand. Anything else?
Do not trust the Sheik or his people. Hatim is out for his own benefit, and truth be told, these loyalists are likely the good guys in this situation. Whats thetest with the Abhorrent? Our captors treat us well, but wont give us any news from the outside.
We havent heard anything. Supposedly the Abhorrent areing in this direction.
We need to get the Key and get out of here before they arrive. Hurry, Xerk. This goes beyond anything we could imagine.
... and thats about it, Captain, Yahel said. I hope you approve of how were handling things.
Of course, Gandash said. Ill make sure to mention your name when I make my report to High Archon Kingallu.
Is there anything else? Yahel asked. She nced at Xerxes briefly.
Gandash shook his head. I dont think so.
Yahel pushed her chair back and stood. Then well take our leave. Next we meet, youll be dining with the sheik.
I look forward to it.
They left, marched out of the prison, across the city, and through the bridge. The entire time, Yahel didnt say a word, nor did any of the soldiers. Back in the keep, after the soldiers were dismissed, Xerxes put down his shield and spear.
Did you get what you wanted? Yahel asked.
Yes, I think so.
Itste. Will you be sleeping here in the keep?
He was tempted to say yes, then sneak out in the night to find the bronze tree statue and the Gateway Key. But it seemed risky. He didnt know theyout of the ce, how the guards operated, or even where to start looking. Better to let some time pass. Worst case scenario, Dasi could cast a shapeshifting spell and explore the keep with no one the wiser. Assuming they could find some pills to replenish her mm.
Id prefer to meet back with mypanions, if its all the same to you.
Youre wee to do as you wish. Also, Id love to invite all of you to a morning meal here in the keep. Believe me, the fare is vastly superior to anything youll find in the outer city. And most ces in the inner city as well.
I think Ill take you up on that.
Chapter 83: Crowds and a Rooftop
Chapter 83: Crowds and a Rooftop
Yahel escorted Xerxes to the inner wall gate, but no further. She gave him an official pass that would allow him to return in the morning and bring a guest with him. He parted ways with her, then headed west toward the river, intending to follow it south back to where the others waited for him. Strangely, the streets seemed crowdedpared to back in the inner city.
I dont remember it being like thisst night. Was it some sort of local festival?
Two blocks away from the gate, something made the hair on the back of his neck prickle. He looked over his shoulder.
Back in Harborview on Mannemid, hed developed street instincts by virtue of necessity. Despite not seeing anyone behind him, he felt like he was being followed. No one behind him in the street jumped out as being suspicious. But that didnt mean his instincts were wrong. He made it a point to stay as close to the middle of the street as possible. The crowds grew thicker.
At the next intersection, he realized why. Some sort of parade was up ahead. Numerous city guards were holding back the crowds as robed and masked individuals marched down the street to the apaniment of tambourines and horns. Other figures in dark robes carried straw effigies.
There was no way to cross without making a scene. He looked left and right, and also back, trying to identify who might have been the one following him. Yet again, he failed to notice anyone.
He went back west, away from the crowd, then south. Eventually he reached a wall cutting off the southward route, forcing him to either go west toward the parade, or further east. He went east.
There were less people here. What was more, that feeling of being followed waned.
He spotted an alleyway going south, and ducked into it. It was only about four cubits from one end to the other, with crates and refuse piled in the corners on either side. He waited for a moment, looking out into the street, waiting to see if anyone came toward him. No one did.
He started walking. Halfway through the alley, a noise caught his ear, and he looked over his shoulder.
Someone was silhouetted in the alley entrance behind him. Whoever it was, they had a longsword slung over their shoulder.
Shit, I was right. He turned his head forward and broke into a trot.
Someone stepped into the alley entrance ahead.
Fuckers, he thought. They got me cornered.
But who were these people?
The figure in front of him walked forward slowly. He looked over his shoulder. The person behind him did the same.
He adjusted his grip on his sword. What to do?
Were they local thugs, hoping to relieve him of coin? Were they swordsmen wanting to gain fame by cutting down an opponent in a duel? Was that a thing in Puabi?
Were they mages?
He squinted his eyes in the hopes of making out details of the person ahead of him. Could it be possible it was Eskinder? Out for revenge because of the sh at the bridge? Yahel had hinted that the young mage would do something like that.
Theres one way to figure out if theyre mages or not.
The alley walls werent bare. Ahead of him, he saw windows, balconies anddders. Throwing his head back and looking up, he saw the same.
He stepped to the right, bent his legs, and ran toward the opposite wall. He jumped, hit the wall with both feet, then pushed in the opposite direction. Reaching up, he grabbed a balcony, pulled himself up to it, all the while keeping his sword in his other hand. From there, he scrambled up, jumped to the balcony opposite, dashed up adder, and made a flying leap. His fingers found purchase on the rooftop, and he pulled himself up.
The rooftops in Puabi were like those in many major cities in the Humusi starisles; they were t with parapets. Once in a good position, he looked over the parapet into the alley below. The two sword-wielding figures had already converged on the spot where he started climbing, and they were now making the same ascent.
They couldnt have run that fast if they were Unsighted.
He weighed his options. He knew that Puabi only had five High Seers. The likelihood that either of these two individuals were High Seers seemed low. In fact, Xerxes was willing to put money down that one of them was Eskinder. Xerxes, as a High Seer, could easily outrun Seers, given the right circumstances. He looked to the left, to the south. There were mostly open rooftops.
I can definitely lose them.
But did he want to?
Why were they following him?
He backed away from the parapet and swung his sword into the Tail guard. About ten cubits back, he took a position in the middle of the rooftop.
Momentster, one of the figures climbed over the parapet. He or she wore robes of deep blue, with a silver mask that covered their face. As they stepped onto the rooftop and flipped their sword into the Longfacing position, the second figure climbed over, d in simr robes and a cloth mask.
Xerxes smiled. Whats this about, fellow Mages?
The two figures hesitated. Then, the one in the silver mask took a passing step forward. Why are you here?
This person was obviously female. Her voice was light, with a slight rasp. Her voice sounded attractive and probably young. Not that it meant much with mages. Regardless, Xerxes didnt recognize her.
On this rooftop? he said. Well, you chased me here. Id like to ask you the same question. What the hell do you want?
The female edged forward, her sword pointing at him. The person in the cloth mask stepped to the side and forward. Was it Eskinder? Both figures wore clothing that made it impossible to guess at their gender.
Xerxes thought back to the rush of the fight earlier on the bridge. The feeling of death being on the line. Razor-sharp steel inches from his throat. It terrified him, but at the same time was exhrating. He shifted his legs, bending his lead leg in the beginning of a fighting stance.
I could have killed that bastard, he thought. Couldnt he do the same here, if it came down to it?
I thought you said he was a coward, the female said in a low voice.
The person in the cloth mask responded in a whisper. He is!
Despite the whisper, Xerxes recognized the voice. Eskinder.
The female took two gathering steps closer to Xerxes, taking the opportunity to enter a fighting stance, her front leg bent, her back leg extended. She also shifted to the Skyfacing guard.
There arews in this city, she said. Most ces on Jehannemid ouw dueling. But not Puabi.
Her words revealed that she believed Xerxes to be an outsider, unfamiliar with Puabi or Jehannemid. Following that train of logic, Eskinder must know he was a foreigner, and likely connected to the ck Jackal Company.
Are you challenging me? he asked. All the while, he simply stood there, his sword in the Tail guard position. Before taking any action, he wanted to make sure he understood the situation. Whoever this female sword fighter was, there was no way she could possibly be on the level of Mystic Rabya. He remembered Yahel mentioning that Sheik Hatim was the oldest High Seer in Puabi, at nearly three centuries of age. Mystic Rabya had practiced the Epitome for over two hundred years! Even if this female swordsman was a High Seer, which she likely wasnt, it was impossible that she could be anywhere close to Rabyas level.
The female swordsman took a short gathering step forward. Drop your sword.
Xerxes looked at Eskinder. I know who you are.
Eskinder also inched forward.
Xerxes looked back at the woman and decided to bring the weight of authority against her as a threat. But not you. Im here with the ck Jackal Company. We represent the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces. I suggest you back down.
If youre with the Combined Armed Forces, why are you siding with Hatim? Eskinder hissed. He tore off the cloth mask. Hatims a rebel!
Xerxes didnt move. Ask High Archon Kingallu, he said. Were here on his authority.
Eskinder, the female said, I dont like this. She took a step back and lowered her sword. You said he was trying to kill you.
He did try to kill me, Eskinder said. He took yet another passing step forward, putting him very close to being close enough to strike Xerxes.
Thats far enough, Xerxes said.
Oshrit, Eskinder said, obviously addressing the female mage, you owe me. This idiots a traitor and a danger to our cause. We need to bring him to Arshaka to figure out whats really going on. I bet these ck Jackals arent even from Sin-Amuhhu. Theyre probably rogue mages out for their own benefit.
The female mage Oshrit hesitated. Drop your sword, she repeated.
Xerxes was getting annoyed at the jabbering. Im not dropping my sword. In fact, the only reason Im standing here is I wanted to see why you were following me. Ill give you two options. One: get over that parapet and let me on my way. Two: fight me and die. Your choice.
Eskinder hissed. See, Oshrit? Someone from the Combined Armed Forces wouldnt
Not waiting for Eskinder to finish his sentence, Xerxes lunged and brought his sword up in a shing attack. Eskinder barely managed to bring his own sword down to defend himself. Xerxes whipped his sword around to attack from the opposite direction.
Eskinder was too slow.
However, Xerxes wasnt aiming for killing blows, and instead, the tip of his de bit into the young mages shoulder.
Eskinder yelped and jumped back.
Xerxes ended in the Reaping Guard. He took a short step backward.
Let me go, he said. Im not here to fight with you and your loyalists.
Eskinder, Oshrit said, dont
Hah! Eskinder shouted, making a feint, then following with a passing step and an attack.
He telegraphed his move. Badly.
Xerxes could tell he wasing in with the Squinting sh. It was too easy.
He stepped to the side and thrust. His sword stabbed right into Eskinders throat. He pulled the de out, and blood poured onto the gravel of the rooftop.
Eskinde dropped his weapon and fell to his knees, gurgling.
No! Oshrit yelled.
Xerxes backed up as the female mage threw her sword down and bounded forward. She caught Eskinder just as he was about to copse. Throwing aside her outer robe, she loosened a spellponent pouch and pulled out a handful of green bedonna sand. Eskinder slumped in her arms and closed his eyes. Momentster, mm flowed as she cast Minor Restoration. The wound closed.
Eskinder, she said. Eskinder!
His eyes opened. What?
Im leaving, Xerxes said. In the time you spent casting that spell, I could have removed both of your heads. Remember that.
Oshrit looked up at him, her eyes shining beneath her mask. I know.
Stay away from ck Jackal Company. Or else worse will happen.
Chapter 84: Updates
Chapter 84: Updates
Oshrit and Eskinder slunk off into the night. Xerxes wasnt convinced that the incident would result in them staying away from him. Growing up in Harborview on Mannemid, hed known plenty of individuals with personalities simr to Eskinder. He was the kind of person whose quest for vengeance would only end in death: either Xerxes or his own. What was more, now that had been defeated twice by Xerxes, he wouldnt attempt to gain the upper hand in a duel. Whether it was poison, an ambush by hired killers, or something else, it would surely be an underhanded tactic.
Hopefully we can get out of this city before it bes an issue.
He made his way back to the appointed meeting spot without further incident. Katayoun was waiting for him at the smoking cafe, at a table overlooking the water. When she saw him approaching, her face lit up. He kissed her and sat down.
We were starting to get worried, she said.
Sorry. Things just happened one after another. I talked to Gandy, and I know what were supposed to do next.
Good. Did you hear about the incident?
Incident? No.
Abhorrent attack to the north of the city. Everybodys talking about it. A big checkpoint on the road between Puabi and Eresh was overrun. A bunch of people died.
Shit, why didnt they say something to me?
She shrugged. Word on the street isnt good. People arent happy. They think the loyalists and the sheikists are more concerned about whos in charge than they are preparing to defend the city.
Xerxes thought about the procession hed encountered and wondered if that had something to do with the incident. Theyre probably right. Regardless, we need to move quickly. Theres something we have to get our hands on. A key. Where are Kash and Dasi?
Gambling, she replied with a smile.
Lets get them and then find somewhere private. Ill exin everything.
Once they were together back at the smoking cafe, he went into all the details. There was a lot to unpack, so much so that it took nearly an hour to go through the basics. They went on to talk about possible ns going forward. The biggest piece of the puzzle was missing; where exactly was the statue with the key?
Without that piece of information, it wasnt possible to make any definitive ns. They eventually came to an agreement on the next step. Tomorrow, Xerxes and Kashtiliash would go back to the inner city looking for the key. Katayoun and Dasi would prowl the city in the hopes of somehow finding some magical resources. For instance, some Concentrated Mm Pills. At the moment, Dasi was still too low on mm to use any of her shapeshifting abilities. And given that they needed to liberate a key from the sheik, those abilities could very welle in handy.
As Katayon led Xerxes down the hall toward their room, he said, Its alling together. Well be done here soon.
I know. Done and back through the Gateway.
**
Early in the morning, a scream from the streets woke them.
Xerxes looked out of thetticed window and saw people hurrying back and forth everywhere. Something happened, he said.
Katayoun sat up in the bed next to him. What is it?
Not sure. Lets go down and see if we can get any news. He climbed out and started dressing. Katayoun provided him with a silver chain that he put around his neck. If he did manage to get the key, that would be the ce he put it.
In themon room, one of the serving girls exined. The Abhorrent had finally arrived.
Kashtiliash and Dasi came downstairs as the serving girl finished her story and left to get them food.
Whats going on? Dasi asked.
Abhorrent attack, Katayoun said. The horde from up north is finally converging.
Shit, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes tapped the table. Its not unexpected. And it shouldnt interfere with our situation. Lets get to the keep and find that key. Then once they transfer ck Jackal, we can get out of here.
What about the Unsighted? asked Dasi.
Xerxes had shoved that issue to the back of his mind. Bringing the Unsighted with them on the journey back to the Gateway would make things go much more slowly. However, Xerxes was loath to truly abandon them. Itll be Gandys call. Hes still in charge.
They ate quickly, then Kashtiliash and Xerxes left for the inner city.
The streets werent exactly in chaos, but they felt different from before. People walked faster. Less people talked. Xerxes thought back to the capital city of Mannemid, and how everything had seemed strange during the Abhorrent invasion.
With the pass hed been given, they got through the inner wall gate, then made their way toward the keep.
Inside, a sergeant met them with an apologetic look. Seer Yahel said shes running behind schedule, and asked you to wait in the Corn Courtyard.
Wheres that? Xerxes asked.
Just around the corner. Ill take you.
They followed the sergeant through a few corridors, then out into a wide courtyard. This isnt it, the sergeant said. Its on the other side.
As they crossed the courtyard, Xerxes looked over and saw a group of servants loading some items onto a cart. One of which was a statue of a tree. A bronze tree, festooned with keys. He nearly tripped over his own feet.
Say, Sergeant, whats going on over there?
The sergeant stopped walking and tucked his fingers into his belt as he looked across the courtyard. Oh that? Theyre loading up the ransom. Er he licked his lips the payment for that Captain Gandash of yours. To get him back from the rebels. The sheiks handing over a bunch of old artistic type stuff. Vases. Statues and the like.
Xerxes nced at Kashtiliash out of the corner of his eye. The bearded mage was already looking at him.
Nothing much to look at, Sir Mage, the sergeant said. This way.
As the sergeant trotted onward, Xerxes watched as three servants threw a tarp over the bronze tree statue.
Dammit, so close. He was tempted to simply run over to the tree right then and there. However, it would have made a scene, and that wasnt what he was aiming for.
After another set of corridors, they were in a much smaller side courtyard. Ceramic tiles covered the walls, with a motif of a corn harvest. The sergeant had them sit at a table at stone benches, then stood casually off to the side.
Xerxes rested his chin on his hand and leaned his head forward.
You saw it, he projected to Kashtiliash, more of a statement than a question.
Yeah. Its right there. For the taking.
Except we cant just go over and grab it. The existence of the Key is supposed to be a big secret. Any ideas?
Kashtiliash only shook his head.
Xerxes looked over at the sergeant. If they could get rid of the man, it wouldnt be difficult to simply run back into that courtyard. Then maybe he could create a distraction and grab the key. If only Dasi could be here with enough mm to do some shapeshifting.
I need to take a piss, Kashtiliash said loudly. He stood.
The sergeant looked over. Oh. Er
Kashtiliash took a step toward the corner of the courtyard. I could do it here, if you want.
No! the sergeant yelped. No, thats not necessary. Thetrine is just down that corridor. Turn left, go straight, then right, and after that. The sergeant cleared his throat. Never mind, Ill just take you. He looked at Xerxes. Sir Mage, can you just stay put until Seer Yaheles?
Of course, Sergeant, Xerxes said. Good thinking, Kash.
Kashtiliash followed the sergeant out of the courtyard. The moment they were gone, Xerxes stood and raced back the way theyde, using all the High Seer speed he dared to draw on.
Secondster, he was in the doorway looking out into the courtyard. The carts and servants were still there. By now, about half the carts were full, leaving arge pile of various items waiting to be loaded onto the empty ones. He could see the top-heavy shape that was the bronze tree. How could he get to it?
He looked around the courtyard, hoping to find something he could use as a distraction. Could he knock down a pir? Somehow start a fire?
Before he could decide on a course of action, movement attracted his attention from the far side of the courtyard. Out of the same doorway he, Kashtiliash and the sergeant had juste through minutes before, appeared Seer Yahel.
Dammit.
She hurried over to the carts, where she exchanged some words with some of the servants, and made a cursory inspection of some of the loaded carts.
Then she turned and started heading to where Xerxes lurked in the shadows.
Suppressing a sigh of disappointment, he went back to the corn-themed courtyard and sat back at the bench.
Yahel arrived momentster. Hello, Seer Xerxes. Er you came alone?
He shed a smile. High Seer Kashtiliash had to visit the facilities. Im sure hell be back in a moment.
She sat across from him at the table. In that case, well just wait. I have a lot nned for you today.
I look forward to it. Er, Seer is there any news about the Abhorrent?
Theyre gathering, she said. But I wouldnt worry about it. Eresh fell because of poor leadership and crumbling infrastructure. A group of blind bandits could have broken through their city wall. The situation is very different here.
Oh. Shed never seen meteors the size of city blocks falling from the sky and smashing into a city. But for the moment, he bit his tongue.
Dont let mundane matters like that worry you. Once High Seer Kashtiliash returns, Ill take you on the grand tour. We can even go to the city walls if youd like a firsthand look at whats going on outside.
I think Id like that.
Chapter 85: A Cat
Chapter 85: A Cat
After Kashtiliash returned, Seer Yahel took them on a whirlwind tour of the keep. Yahel seemed overly attentive to Kashtiliash, to the point where it asionally became ufortable for Xerxes.
Kash is like me, he thought. Sixteen or seventeen years old. And isnt she like two hundred?
It was creepy.
That, coupled with the idea of the bronze statue of the tree sitting on a cart in a courtyard so closeby, made it hard for Xerxes to pay attention to the tour. At one point, she took them into an ornately decorated room to have tea, and when he stepped to the window and looked down, he realized they were just above the courtyard with the carts.
He wanted to burst out of the window, rush to the cart, tear the tarp off, grab the key, and run.
But Gandy was still detained, and he had no idea what would be involved in freeing him with force. Besides, it didnt seem wise to antagonize the sheiks people.
Something catch your attention? Yahel asked.
Xerxes looked over to where she and Kashtiliash sat.
He blinked. Oh, nothing. I just realized we walked through that courtyard down there, earlier today. Those are the items youre sending as payment for the release of the ck Jackal Company?
She rose and joined him at the window. Yes, those are the items. Worth several million shekels. Well send the carts over the river after the curfew this evening, when the streets are empty. Dont worry, youll have your Captain back by tomorrow, no doubt about it. Now, would you like to head up to one of the towers? We can see what this so-called Abhorrent invasion is shaping up to look like.
Sure.
As they climbed the spiral stairs leading to the top of one the towers, Xerxes realized his heart was pounding. Towers. Abhorrent.
He didnt like thebination.
First had been the tower he climbed with Bel and Captain Iskhi. Then the temporary watchtower on the road, before the battle when Enusat died.
He stopped in ce on the stairs.
You dont believe in omens, he thought. He remembered Mystic Rabya lecturing about the subject. The crux of the ss had been that only omens perceived by means of spellcasting by Hasasu mages could be considered true omens. Anything else, including the countless folk superstitions that proliferated in all parts of the empire, were just that: superstitions.
Corrtion doesnt prove causation, Rabya said. Does anyone know what Macrides wrote about that?
Ningal raised her hand. He said that you have to avoid the tendency to notice random connections between things. For instance, you have red wine before a battle, and thene out victorious. Several monthster, you drink red wine again before another sessful battle. Superstitious people might start thinking red wine leads to victory in battle. But its nothing more than coincidence.
Thats right, Rabya said. Or in the case of ck Jackal ssroom, we have Enusat, who thinks that never washing his socks makes him a better sword fighter.
Thats rude! Enusat grumbled. Everyoneughed.
Xerxes sighed at the thought that both Enusat and Ningal were dead.
Xerk? Kashtiliash said. Something wrong?
Xerxes looked up to see both Kashtiliash and Yahel looked down the stairs in his direction. No, he said. Just distracted.
He hurried to catch up. The view from the tower top was breathtaking. But from this high vantage point, it wasnt possible to see any Abhorrent. Were they so close to the city walls that they werent visible? Or were they lurking in the hills off in the distance?
Yahelughed. See? The Abhorrent arent anything to worry about right now.
Kashtiliash said something in response that Xerxes didnt note. It was actually surprising how well he was able to carry a conversation when necessary.
As they climbed back down the tower staircase, Yahel said, I have a few important matters to attend to before the evening meal. Would the two of you like to join me? For dinner I mean? If so, I can arrange for something to keep you upied until then.
No thanks, Xerxes said. If its okay with you, well go make a few final preparations for when the Captain is released. You said itll be first thing in the morning, right?
Thats right.
Perfect. Welle back tomorrow then.
There were some more formalities, but eventually they parted ways with Yahel and walked in the direction of the wall.
You owe me, Kashtiliash said.
Huh?
My throat is sore from talking. Its a good thing she has some sort of crush on me and didnt notice you staring into the distance half the time. What was that about?
Sorry, Kash. I was just thinking about a lot of stuff. I dont think we can afford to let that bronze tree get handed over to the loyalists.
You have a n?
The outline of a n. But well need some input from Kat and Dasi.
I know what youre thinking.
Xerxes grinned. Do you?
Were going to hit those wagons before they cross the bridge. Either that, or after.
Xerxes sped his hand on Kashtiliashs shoulder. You read my mind.
Great Swordmasters think alike.
**
Katayoun and Dasi managed to find a box of Concentrated Mm Pill for sale. They waited until Kashtiliash and Xerxes returned before deciding what to do with them. At Xerxes urging, Dasi took one. And then they formted their n.
They returned to the inner city in two groups, then got into ce before the curfew bells were sounded.
Kashtiliash and Xerxes had the very same cloaks theyd used to sneak into the female dorms back on Sin-Amuhhu. Combined with some simple masks purchased at the market, they were perfectly attired to blend into the shadows. Xerxes had initially been reluctant to bring swords, but Katayoun convinced him to go armed.
And thus, he and Kashtiliash lurked on a rooftop some blocks away from the keep, along the road they guessed the carts would take.
Katayoun and Dasi were in an alley below, waiting for the signal.
Kashtiliash put his hand together and rubbed them vigorously. It gets cold at night here, he said.
Xerxes kept to the shadows of the rooftop so he wouldnt stick out to anyone examining the surrounding city from a higher vantage point in the keep. He peered in the direction of the side gate they were watching. Yeah. I remember Jad saying it snows around here in the winter.
Any movement?
Not yet.
Xerxes reached for the thousandth time to hisponent pouch. He truly hoped he wouldnt have any need for spellcasting. Their n was to get the key and escape into the night without anyone being the wiser. But who knew what could y out?
Have you thought about Dasis question? Kashtiliash asked.
About the Unsighted?
Yeah.
Xerxes shook his head. I dont want to think about it.
Kashtiliash grunted a response.
The truth was that Xerxes had thought a lot about it, and he couldnt imagine a suitable course of action. Once they had the Gateway key, there was no reason for them to stay in Puabi, or on Jehannemid for that matter. But there was no getting around the fact that the return trip would be a months-long journey if they brought the Unsighted troops with them. It might not have been worth worrying about if the Abhorrent werent present. But they were.
It was possible for the mages, and especially the High Seers, to get back to theplex safely if they were careful in how they traveled. But to make that trip with all of ck Jackal Company would be very difficult.
He wondered if Gandash would be able to make the decision to abandon the Unsighted.
Xerxes thought about the troops he knew.
Stratos. Mauwa. Tustimant.
And dozens of others.
When leaving with Jad, he had envisioned returning along with a triumphant army of fellow mages to rescue Gandash and the others. This time, things would be different.
Look, Kashtiliash said, pointing.
Across the way, the gate was opening. A line of troops filed out, bearing shields and spears.
Xerxes counted six. Ten. Twenty.
Damn, he whispered. Theyre not joking around.
After the foot soldiers came cavalry. At least ten mounted warriors.
Then there was a tall man with a longsword sheathed at his back.
Whos that? Kashtiliash said.
A Seer named Simeon, Xerxes answered. He knows the Epitome.
After Simeon were more footsoldiers. Then came the carts, each of which had four soldiers attached to it. Xerxes supposed he shouldnt have been surprised, given that they were escorting millions of shekels worth of valuables. Nheless, the sight of dozens upon dozens of soldiers, apanied by mages, was daunting.
We still going through with this? Kashtiliash asked.
Xerxes gnawed at his cheek as he thought. Then he said, Yes. Once we see if they turn left or right, go signal Kat and Dasi.
Behind the carts were more soldiers. Xerxes lost track of the exact count, but estimated their number at about a hundred. At the end of the procession was another mage, a young man. He carried no weapons, shield, or anything else, for that matter. But Xerxes could tell by his garments that he was a Seer.
Around the same time that the gates closed, the procession reached the intersection and turned left.
Go time, Xerxes said. Follow the n.
Kashtiliash nodded and dashed toward the side of the building to send the signal to Katayoun and Dasi.
Meanwhile, Xerxes, still crouched low, ran to the edge of the building and leaped to the next building over. Continuing in that manner, he went one more building down, then pulled himself into the shadows of a rooftop grape vine. From there, he had a perfect view of the intersection where Dasi would make her move.
Minutes passed with agonizing slowness. Kashtiliash went in a different direction, so he didnt spot him. Eventually, the troops appeared. Then Simeon. Then the carts.
Almost time.
Xerxes watched as the carts trundled down the empty streets.
The yowl of a cat broke the silence, and then Xerxes caught a blur of motion near one of the carts.
Dasi, he thought.
She ran under the cart with the tree. The troops guarding the procession reacted very quickly, but when they realized it was just a cat, they rxed.
What is it? he heard Simeon yell.
Stray cat, one of the soldiers called back. It jumped in the cart.
Xerxes heard some scatteredughter. Simeon started moving in the direction of the cart.
Get it out of there, the mage said. Last thing we want is it jumping out and the rebels think were attacking them.
Its under the tarp.
Simeon stepped up to the cart. Then flip the damn thing back!
As soldiers scrambled toply, Xerxes continued to gnaw his lip. Come on, Dasi. Come on.
The very moment the soldier untied a corner rope and flipped the tarp back, arge tabby cat leaped out from inside, provoking a shout from the soldier.
Xerxes was fairly certain he saw a glint of metal in the cats mouth.
The catnded on the soldiers chest, scrambled over him, and made to leap away.
Until Simeon jumped forward and grabbed it by the scruff of the neck.
Chapter 86: Ready to Go?
Chapter 86: Ready to Go?
Xerxes stood and reached to the hilt of his sword. But before anything else could happen, he noticed something strange. His own shadow, on the wall right in front of him.
What the hell?
His shadow grew more distinct, and he was being bathed in a yellowish, orange light. From behind.
He looked over his shoulder. Descending toward the city was an enormous, ming meteor. It was impossible to judge the size, butpared to previous meteors hed seen, it seemed usible that this one contained a high-level juvenile.
He looked back down to the street below. Soldiers and mages in the procession were staring up into the sky as well.
Simeon had cat-form Dasi in his hand, but wasnt looking at her. Nor was she moving around. Her cat eyes also seemed fixed on the fire in the sky.
Xerxes formed a n. Stepping forward, he put his foot onto the parapet and jumped out into the air. His cloak red around him as he pulled out his sword, dropping down two stories tond on the paved street below.
The sight of the massive, fiery rock had so transfixed the soldiers that none of them looked at him. The young mage at the far end of the procession was simrly distracted.
But Simeon noticed.
Xerxes put his sword into the Tail guard and started walking forward.
Who are you? Simeon said. Cat-form Dasi yowled and tried to get her ws into the mages forearm, but he tightened his grip, causing her fur and skin to stretch so tight she could barely move.
Give me the cat, Xerxes said, eyes flitting to Simeons feet. He wasnt in a good fighting stance. Nor did he have his hand on his sword. Would it be wise to lunge in with an attack before the man drew his weapon?
Only now did some of the soldiers notice him. Five or six of them put their shields up and rested their spears on top of them, pointing in his direction.
Simeon looked at the cat he held. He tightened his grip further, until Dasi squeaked pitifully. Simeon looked back at Xerxes. Dont take another step forward or Ill rip the cats head off. Tell me who the hell you are. A rebel?
Xerxes jerked a thumb over his shoulder and tried to make his voice deeper than it really was. That meteor is going to crash into your city in a matter of seconds and youll have a stage five or six juvenile Abhorrent to deal with. Give me the cat.
My city? So youre one of the foreign mages.
Fuck. Im not cut out for this espionage stuff.
The city street was growing brighter, and the shadows crisper. There wasnt time for this. Dasi, said Xerxes. Lets get out of here.
The cat in Simeons hand flowed into a different shape, growingrger as Dasi reverted to her human shape.
Shit, Simeon said as he lost his grip. He put his hand on the hilt of his sword, but Dasi kicked him in the pit of his stomach. He flew back into one of the wagons.
Dasi spat a bronze key out of her mouth into her hand and started running toward Xerxes.
Lets go, she said.
Sheathing his sword on his back, he dashed into the nearest alleyway, and she followed.
Behind them, soldiers shouted. Simeon yelled, Stay in ce!
The light grew brighter and brighter as Xerxes and Dasi ran through the streets toward the appointed rendezvous point.
Before they reached it, the meteor hit.
Xerxes didnt know much about how heavenly bodies worked, or what was supposed to happen when they went from the emptiness outside of a to thends that made it up. The small meteors that the Abhorrent spawn arrived in seemed to go much faster than the big ones. They would crash into the ground and release immense force, leveling things around them and create gaping craters. The big ones somehow moved much slower. And when theynded, they didnt release the same type of force, nor create massive craters. But that didnt mean theycked destructive power.
A bone-shuddering rumbling sound filled the air behind Dasi and Xerxes as the meteor smashed into the cityscape of Puabi. Sparks, ming rubble, and chunks of stone exploded in all directions. The ground shook beneath the feet of the two mages.
Xerxes looked back, but couldnt see the location of impact. The keep rose up into the night just like before, so if that had been the target, then the meteor missed.
A roar echoed into the night as Xerxes and Dasi skidded into the intersection of two alleys, where Kashtiliash and Katayoun should arrive within moments.
Shit, Xerxes muttered. Dasi, look.
Up in the sky were at least three more ming meteors tumbling down toward them.
Damn. Dasi looked at the meteors, then looked at the key she held. Whats so special about this thing anyway?
Im not supposed to say. He extended his hand, palm up.
Dasi gave him the Key and then looked back up into the sky. We need to get out of here.
Katayoun appeared from the opposite direction theyde. You got the key?
Xerxes held it up. Its right here.
Kashtiliash zoomed up the alley and skidded to a stop. Now what. ck Jackal?
Yeah. Xerxes tried not to think about how important the key was as he pulled the chain out from around his neck, affixed the key to it, then put it back under his garment. He looked up into the sky. Cant tell where those things are going tond.
Definitely in the city, Dasi said.
Yes. Follow me. He started running in the direction of the river. It helped that it was after curfew and the streets were almostpletely empty. It took less than a minute to reach the river. The iing meteors were so bright that the surroundings seemed like day. They stopped for a moment to look up and gauge the potential points of impact.
That ones not going to hit within the city walls, Dasi said, pointing to the nearest one.
The other two look like theyll fall east of us, Katayoun added.
This way, Xerxes said, leading them north up the riverwalk. They soon reached a bridge, which was locked and secured for the night. There were sheikist soldiers guarding it, but they were so transfixed by the sight of the meteors that they had no presence of mind to stop the four High Seers from simply taking running leaps onto the roof of the bridge structure.
While running across, Xerxes looked back toward where the first meteor hadnded. The city was on fire, and smoke rose into the sky. He saw no sign of whatever Abhorrent hade with the meteor, but he heard an inhuman shriek from that direction.
Loyalist soldiers guarded the other side of the bridge, but they were just as shaken as the soldiers on the other side.
They didnt even react until Xerxes and the other three mages were dashing away down the street.
Halt! one of them shouted, but it was far toote.
Xerxes ran harder as the light from the meteor grew bigger and brighter.
The meteors hit as they ran out onto the street that the prison loomed over. As Katayoun had predicted, theynded in the east. The sound of the impact echoed over the city.
To Xerxes, it felt like an hour had passed since the mage Simeon grabbed cat-form Dasi by the neck. In reality, barely two minutes had passed.
The city was waking up. Shouting could be heard, as well as screams. Windows were opening, and people were sticking their heads out. Individuals were appearing on the street as well, defying curfew.
Thats the ce, Xerxes said, nodding his head in the direction of the prison building.
How do we get inside? Dasi asked.
Xerxes put his hand to hisponent pouch. I dont know for sure. Im going to try the quick and dirty method. Kash, can you be ready to help?
Sure. The bearded mage loosened his ownponent pouch.
Striding toward the main entrance of the prison, Xerxes filled his palm with stibnite talc and traced the Asgagu Sebum rune. Once finished with the rune, he reached back and touched the tip of his sword. The magical effect spread as he drew the weapon.
Stepping up to the door, he pulled his sword back then swung the de at the side of the door, where he knew the hinge was on the inside. The white, burning de bit into the thick wood. He pulled his sword back and shed the door again. And again.
It took fifteen seconds.
The smoking door fell inward to reveal the guard room, and the soldiers with shields raised and mouths hanging open.
Leave, Xerxes said.
The trembling soldiers eased out of the room and ran off into the night.
They entered the prison. Thankfully, Xerxes knew the way. There were no more personnel until they reached Gandashs cell. The same sergeant Xerxes recognized was there. He had a mini crossbow in his hands.
Get back! the sergeant growled.
The Minor Augmentation had long since faded from Xerxes sword. Keeping the tip down in the Innocent guard, he said, I dont want to hurt you. But I will. Open the door.
I cant, the sergeant said.
Xerxes eyed the crossbow and felt a tingle in his neck where hed once been pierced by such a weapon. All the sergeant had to do was pull the trigger, and that dart could do a lot of damage.
The building trembled.
W-whats that? the sergeant blurted, and he looked across the hall to a barred window.
Xerxes jumped forward, lifted his de, and reached to grab the crossbow. The tip of his sword entered the sergeants throat and stabbed clean through it. Xerxes'' other handtched onto the sergeants wrist just before the crossbow twanged.
The dart shot harmlessly off to the side. Xerxes pushed the body off the sword, then squatted and yanked the key ring from the belt.
He opened the door.
Ningsummunu stood there, his hands clenched into fists and his knees bent, as if he was ready for fighting.
Xerk? he said.
Ning, Xerxes said. He grinned. Is everybody ready to go?
Chapter 87: Interlude - A Lot To Show, Many Questions
Chapter 87: Interlude - A Lot To Show, Many Questions
South of the Sin-Amuhhu Institute of Military magic was an enormous ce of worship. A temple of the One Faith. Unlike the cathedrals and chapels devoted to the Patriarch, which featured soaring architectural design andplex decorations, the One Faith temples were austere and almost simple in their design.
Members of the One Faith, or Monadites as outsiders called them, believed that worship was a solemn affair of study, reflection, and prayer.
The temple itself had a pulpit, a host of pews for congregants, plus back rooms and chambers for burning candles or incense, private sessions of worship, and storage of church supplies.
It was Restday, and as a result, the pews in the main chamber were full. A congregation elder stood behind the pulpit, giving an encouraging sermon about showing love.
There were private rooms that overlooked the area of worship, which were set aside for use by important members of the congregation. Archon Shabadras sat in one such room, but wasnt paying attention at all to the sermon. Instead, his mind spun with all thetest news.
Next to him sat a guest. Purattu from Ku-Aya, who only a few months ago was someone Shabadras knew only as a name on a list of One Faith members in lower starisles.
Purattu was a strange character as far as Shabadras was concerned. He was so blunt as to toe the line of arrogance, which, coupled with his sharp mind, made him the type of person many would immediately dislike. But Shabadras didnt dislike him. What was more, Shabadras could tell that Purattu was a true believer. Many members of the One Faith attended services and offered prayers because they were raised that way, and not because they had faith. Purattu was different, and Shabadras liked that.
Why isnt the news spreading faster? Purattu asked quietly.
Shabadras mouth twitched into a grim smile. You think they want word spreading of a full-scale Abhorrent invasion? There would be chaos in the streets.
I doubt it. Granted, its a terrifying thought that some Abhorrent got out of the Nightmare Cove. But their activity is limited to Stricken starisles. Why would people up here care about that?
Shabadras shrugged. Head Mage Muna didnt exin the rationale behind the decision. Besides, the order likely came from the Annunaki, and its possible they didnt exin it to her.
It probably doesnt matter. Its only a matter of time before rumors spread.
Youre right. Shabadras looked down at the One Faith congregation and sighed. Everyone sat quietly in the pews listening to the sermon, asionally nodding. He spotted a young one, a girl of no more than four or five years old, sleeping on her mothers arm. There was an old couple in the back holding hands. His chest tightened. Closing his eyes, he prayed, Monad, you must do something about this. Hasnt the timee to reveal your power and put the rebel Annunaki in their ce?
What of Jehannemid and ck Jackal Company? Purattu asked.
Shabadras opened his eyes. Theres been no word. But we know that Hannemid is lost. Nos is also gone. Two of the starisles subsidiary to Humusi have been outright destroyed.
Out of the corner of his eye, Shabadras saw Purattus hand clench slowly into a fist.
I liked some of those kids, Purattu said. If we just sent them all to their deaths.
Based on the information we have, both Hannemid and Nos fell to the Abhorrent a week ago. We have no evidence to indicate Jehannemid is under attack.
Purattu made a sniffing sound. Please, Archon. Dont y word games with me. Having no evidence is meaningless.
Shabadras didnt reply, as he knew Purattu was right.
The two mages sat together for a few minutes as the sermon continued.
Shabadras tried to decide what to tell Purattu. Being a member of the Mage Parliament, Shabadras knew more than the vast majority of human beings in existence. Head Mage Muna ran the parliament by the book, and would never reveal information the Annunaki had forbidden her to reveal. That meant that whatever she said in the parliament meetings were things the Annunaki did want them to hear. But of course, parliament meetings were confidential in general.
Should he tell Purattu that Annunaki patrols had encountered strange anomalies throughout the starisles subsidiary to Sin-Amuhhu? Evidence that the Abhorrent werent limiting their activities to the Stricken starisles like Jehannemid? Clues that hinted the Abhorrent might be in Deeply Clouded, Clouded, and Unclouded starisles? Should he reveal that Head Mage Muna had vaguely implied that, though unlikely, it was conceivable that the monsters had even reached Sin-Amuhhu, a Flourishing starisle that was considered one of the cornerstones of the empire?
Should he exin that Head Mage Muna worried the invasion wasnt about the Gateway Key at all? That the Key itself was likely a feint within a feint, designed to distract them from the true purpose of the incursion?
Should he reveal that, with no exnation, the Annunaki had ordered the League of Martial Adepts to be brought to Sin-Amuhhu? Although it could mean many things, Shabadras worried that it indicated the Annunaki feared Abhorrent violence on Sin-Amuhhu itself. After all, martial adepts didnt follow the path of magic, which made them less desirable targets for recruitment by the Eternal Father cult. What was more, they didnt have mm reserves, which made them virtually invisible to the Abhorrent.
Below, the congregation stood and began singing songs of praise to the Monad.
Purattu also stood. If theres nothing else, Archon?
There is, Shabadras said. Sit.
Purattu looked at him and sat back down.
Theres a lot I cant tell you, Shabadras said. Suffice it to say, I also grew attached to some members of ck Jackal Company. And if Jehannemid is facing circumstances simr to what happened on Hannemid and Nos, then both they and the Gateway Key are in great danger.
Purattu looked down into the crowd below. So the time for subterfuge is over.
Shabadras nodded. The Mage Parliament is worried about bigger issues. If the Abhorrent have ways of traversing the stars without Gateways, then it probably doesnt matter if they have a Gateway Key.
Archon, with all due respect, you sure can talk without saying much. What do you want me to do?
Go get the Gateway Key. At this point, our previous suspicions about the Key being at the center of someplicated ambush seem unfounded. But its still important to keep the Key out of the hands of the Abhorrent and the Cult. Get in there. Retrieve the key. Check on the ck Jackal mages and try to get them back to safety.
The singing was over, as was the final prayer. The members of the congregation were now engaged in conversation, making their way to burn candles, or leaving.
Just the mages? What about the Unsighted?
Shabadras waved his hand. A few hundred Unsighted troops arent worth much. Do with them what you will. If the situation merits, you can use mage speed to get back to the Gatewayplex and leave Jehannemid.
Purattu stood again. Can I leave now?
Of course. Be careful, High Mystic. We live in perilous times. I expect you back within a week.
The stocky mage turned to the door, but didnt open it. A quick question, Archon.
Yes?
I did a lot of research before I went down to the Humusi starisles. I read something I found very interesting.
Shabadras turned his head to look at Purattu. Oh?
I encountered a passage in a book that gave me the impression there could be more than one Gatewayplex on somes in lower starisles. Especially Stricken and Barren.
Shabadras had so many more important matters to consider that he didnt feel like wasting time on such a dull topic, so he said, Its true. Pathways be less stable the deeper you go into lesser starisles. Some of it is because the stars arent static in the starsea. They drift about. asionally, an unstable Gateway will be demolished and a new one built in another location. Its rare, though. The type of thing that happens once in ten thousand years.
I see.
Shabadras didnt bother following up with anything else.
Purattu opened the door and left.
Once alone, Shabadras sank back in the chair, steepled his fingers in front of him, and thought.
There was so much at y. So many things changing. So many schemes to consider. For instance, the identity of the traitor. Unbelievably, the clue provided by the bumbling students from the Institute had actually born fruit. With the physical description of the visiting speaker that theyd provided, Shabadras agents had managed to deduce his identity. Using his arrival paperwork at the Sin-Amuhhu gateway, and pursuing further clues, Shabadras had identified two possible suspects, both in the Mage Parliament. At the moment, it wasnt possible to deduce which of the two was the traitor. But he was certain that one of them was indeed working for the Eternal Father Cult.
Its only a matter of time, he murmured. Everythingsing together.
Is it? someone said.
He jerked upright in the chair and looked over to see someone sitting where Purattu had been sitting moments ago. The voice was soft and feminine, but this person wore a voluminous cloak that made it impossible to make out any identifying features.
Who are you? he asked.
The private worship chamber wasnt secure, but it was in an area that ordinary members of the congregation werent supposed to ess.
It doesnt matter who I am, the woman said. I came for you, Shabadras. Youve been doing a lot of meddling, and the time hase for that to stop.
The hair on the back of his neck prickled, and he slowly moved his left hand toward theponent pouches at his belt. Given the cramped room he was in, casting a spell wouldnt help much if this woman hade to hurt him. As a Buhhu Archon, he could summon stage five and six juvenile Abhorrent to do his bidding. Except, even the smallest such juveniles were asrge as thergest mammals, and the big ones could reach sizes that no ordinary living creature could possibly match.
Before he coulde close to touching aponent pouch, he saw a blur as the woman reached out and mped her hand onto his wrist.
His heart leapt into his throat. Acting on pure instinct, he tried to send mage touch down to free himself, only to realize that his mage touch wasnt working. Nor was his mage sight. In fact, he couldnt even sense his chambers of mm.
Shit.
The womans hand was as pale as a corpses. And when she turned, and he looked into the deep hood of her cloak, he saw that her face was simrly colored. Her skin looked like that of a maggot, and she had eyes of pure ck.
He tried to jerk his hand out of her grasp, but failed. What?
Hush, she said, smiling. I can see you realize who I am. What I am.
It made no sense. This woman was an Abhorrent? There were no records of purely human-shaped Abhorrent this small. Besides, they never looked this human.
What do you want? he asked.
Many things. And youll tell them to me. The question is how. Will you cooperate? If so, you could continue to live for a long time. I might even help you be an Annunaki. Or you could resist. And in that case, youll experience a lot of pain before you die. A lot of pain.
Shabadras looked down into the emptying church and thought to issue a cry for help. Except, when he tried to open his mouth, he failed. It was bound shut with invisible bonds.
The female Abhorrent tsked. She stood, keeping her grip on his hand, which forced him to stand with her. None of that will do any good, she said. Lets go. I have a lot to show you. And many, many questions to ask.
Chapter 88: Crossing Swords
Chapter 88: Crossing Swords
Upon seeing Xerxes standing outside the opened cell door, Ningsummunu sagged in ce. Thank the Pontifarch. He turned. Its Xerk. Get Gandy.
Ningsummunu turned, and it was only then that Xerxes noticed how he favored his left side. His face was bruised, and his clothing had been torn. Not haphazardly. But the sleeves had been ripped off and cut short at the knee.
What the hell happened in a single day?
The building shook. Not once, but twice. Three times, with the third being more than a mere tremor.
Did something hit the building? Dasi said.
You and Kash go check, Xerxes said. He took two steps forward into the cell room. When he passed through the doorway, a tingling sensation ran through him. He instinctively reached toward his chambers of energy, but failed. He was cut off from mm.
Spell formation.
It was dark inside. He saw the window to the left where hed thrown the paper airne into the building. To the right, there was less light.
He squinted. It was a veryrge room with cots against the wall and little else. And from the far corner, three individuals trudged toward him. As they neared, he realized it was Kishar and Teucer, the two of them supporting Gandash.
Gandash was hardly walking. It was more like they were dragging him with them.
What the hell? Xerxes said. When hed met with Gandash the previous day hed seemedpletely hale and healthy.
They did a number on us since were being freed tomorrow, Ningsummunu said. imed were traitors to Sin-Amuhhu, something like that.
The three other mages got closer, allowing Xerxes to see that both Kishar and Teucer were in simr shape to Ningsummunu. But Gandash was far worse. He had been beaten. His face was puffy and swollen, and he had dried blood on his tattered garments.
Those motherfuckers, Xerxes growled.
My thoughts exactly, Ningsummunu said.
Xerxes backed out of the door.
Ningsummunu followed. Then Kishar gave Gandash into Teucers care, allowing the two of them toe out first.
Katayoun made a muttered curse when she saw them. She stepped to Kishar and embraced her softly. Kish, are you?
Im fine, Kishar said. But Gandys in bad shape. He needs healing.
Katayoun didnt hesitate. She opened herponent pouch, dug out some green bedonna sand, and cast Minor Restoration.
Over the course of about fifteen seconds, Gandashs wounds faded away. He took in a ragged breath.
Afterward, Teucer stepped away from him.
Gandash stood straight, his hands clenched into fists. He looked around.
Thank you, Kat. And thank you, Xerk. I owe you my life.
Xerxes smiled and reached over to sp Gandashs shoulder. You dont owe us anything. What happened?
They found out we had a second mission. Either that, or they took a wild guess. Tried to beat information out of me.
I take it you didnt talk, Katayoun said.
Hell no. The building shook again. What is that?
Theres a lot going on, Xerxes said. Meteors falling. Abhorrent everywhere.
Damn, Gandash said. He looked at Teucer, then Ningsummunu and Kishar. Finally he looked at Katayoun. Kat, do you have enough mm to heal everyone?
She hesitated.
Its not necessary, Kishar said. Were roughed up, but we dont need healing. Kat should save her mm andponents.
Agreed, Teucer said, though he grimaced as he rubbed his shoulder.
I also agree, Ningsummunu said.
We have a problem, Kashtiliash said, approaching from a far corridor. Dasi was behind him.
This time, Dasi said, the fuckers led with the big meteors. The smaller ones are only now starting to hit the city. A lot of them.
What? Gandash said.
At least four juveniles hit the city in the past couple minutes, Xerxes exined. Plus theres a horde from the north thats outside the walls. And now more are arriving. We have to get out of here.
Gandashs eyes shed as he looked at Xerxes. Did you get the key?
Xerxes nodded. Yeah.
Okay, thats all that matters. If the city is being attacked by multiple juveniles, then theres nothing we can do to save it. We need to leave.
Where are the Unsighted? Xerxes asked, thinking about Stratos, Tustimant, and the others.
Theres a basement level, Gandash said. Right, Ning?
The building shook so violently that dust rained from the ceiling.
Lets go find out, Xerxes said.
There were a few soldiers still on duty. None of them posed any obstacle. It only took about two minutes to run down to the lower portions of the prison building to the location where the rest of ck Jackalpany was detained.
When Xerxes saw the condition of ck Jackal Companys Unsighted soldiers, he ground his teeth in anger. They were wallowing in squalor. Though none had been beaten, they looked weak and hopeless. And this was the result of only a few days in captivity. It was as if the loyalists had simply locked them up and ignored them for days on end.
Those bastards, Gandash said as he personally helped Sergeant Laz out of a cell.
Cant disagree with you there, Captain, said Sergeant Stratos as he followed Laz out. Ey, First Lieutenant Xerxes. Its been a minute.
Stratos, Xerxes said, stepping forward and sping the sergeants arm. Good to see you.
They told me they were taking good care of you, Gandash said, a hard edge to his voice.
Could ave been worse, Captain, Stratos said. Least they didnt torture us.
It makes me wonder if they really nned to hand us over to the sheik.
At this point, Xerxes said, it doesnt matter, right?
The building trembled again, causing pebbles and dust to rain from the ceiling.
Youre right. Lets go.
Gandash led the way up and out of the prison building. Along the way, he gave orders to some of the Unsighted to locate the weapons, equipment, belongings, and supplies that had been confiscated when they were arrested.
Out on the street, there were citizens running this way and that. Soldiers. A few rat-like Abhorrent scurrying about.
As soon as the mages appeared, the Abhorrent turned in their direction.
Xerxes and Kashtiliash drew swords and dealt with the handful that rushed them. Meanwhile, Unsighted soldiers joined them. Some had standard shields and swords, others had spears or other weapons. A few had clubs made of demolished armchairs, or kitchen knives. But as they gathered, those who had been tasked with retrieving the supplies arrived with shields, spears, and swords. Gandashs holding bracelet was recovered.
What about the horses? Xerxes asked Stratos.
Taken away, Stratos replied. He lunged forward with a spear and killed a rat Abhorrent. No idea where they are. Carts either.
After everyone was lined up, Gandash stood in front of the group. Good to see everyone in the light of day. He looked up into the dark sky. Or the dead of night, rather. Were getting out of this city. Everyone stick together. Heavy infantry and cavalry, you take priority on shields and weapons. Stick to vanguard and rear guard positions. There wont be time for battle tactics. Were going to go through the city
You wont be going anywhere!
Xerxes turned his gaze from Gandash to a new arrival. A mage with a longsword.
Simeon, he said.
Behind him was the young mage who had been part of the transport convoy.
Simeon had his longsword out, and was pointing it at Gandash.
I should rify, Simeon said. You wont go anywhere until you return whats ours.
Xerxes took a step forward to stand between Gandash and Simeon. He put his hand to the hilt of his longsword. Back off, Simeon. Youre one mage facing a group of High Seers. You dont stand a chance.
You dont care if I massacre your Unsighted? Simeon asked. I could kill plenty while you stumble around trying to stop me.
Xerxes hand tightened on the hilt of his longsword.
Who is this? Gandash asked.
One of the sheiks High Seers, Xerxes replied quietly. We took the Key from him only a few minutes ago.
High Seer Simeon, Gandash said loudly, Im Captain Gandash, sent here by High Archon Kingallu himself to help Sheik Hatim.
Simeon took a step forward. I dont care. Give me the Gateway Key.
Xerxes hissed through his teeth. Gandy, if he knows about the key, doesnt that mean.
Can you handle him? Gandash asked.
Yeah. But what about the other one?
Last chance! Simeon said.
Kash, Gandy said, you help Xerk. Kat, I want you and Dasi to lead everyone else out of here. Im going to stay.
Xerxes drew his sword, bent his knees, and entered Tail guard.
Off to the side, he saw Kashtiliash walking out from the group of Unsighted soldiers.
This way! Dasi cried. Therge group followed.
So thats how you want to y it, Simeon said. Fine.
He burst into motion, raising his sword into the Skyward guard. A long time ago, Xerxes would have been dazzled by such speed and agility.
But he had spent months training with Mystic Rabya, who had likely studied the Epitome longer than Simeon had been alive.
Simeon was clearly heading toward the Unsighted soldiers, but Xerxes dashed to the side to intercept him.
Simeon unleashed the Wrath strike, which Xerxes easily blocked. Not wanting to lose the advantage of surprise, he followed through with an attack that forced Simeon to back up.
Xerxes caught a burst of light as Kashtiliash cast Singr Lethality and walked toward the young mage who had apanied Simeon.
So its true youre a student of the Epitome, Simeon said. And here I thought Eskinder was making excuses.
Lets cut the bullshit, Xerxes said. Youre a cultist, arent you?
Simeon smiled. I dont know what youre talking about. His eyes flitted to check the line of ck Jackal soldiers and mages, who were moving away down the street.
I know what youre wondering, Xerxes said. Who has the Key? Well, its Dasi. The shapeshifter. And Im not going to let you catch up to her.
Simeon looked away from ck Jackal Company. Since you seem intent on standing in my way, Ill just have to kill you.
Xerxes extended one hand and made a beckoning gesture.
Simeon had his sword in the Reaping guard as he took a very short step forward. Ive been studying the Epitome for 70 years. You sure you dont want to surrender and live?
Xerxes burst outughing.
Simeon glowered. Whats so funny? I can tell youre barely more than a teenager.
Whats funny is that my teacher started studying the Epitome before your grandmother lost her virginity.
The skill of a teacher Simeon lunged forward with the Crooked strike.
Xerxes parried, counterthrust, then stepped to the side. From there, he went on the offensive,unching a series of feints and strikes that forced Simeon to nearly run backward to avoid the deadly steel.
More light red to the side as the young mage also cast Singr Lethality and started fighting Kashtiliash.
Xerxes looked Simeon in the eye. Leave or Ill kill you.
No.
Simeon reached into his robe and pulled out a pendant attached to his neck by means of a silver chain. He pulled it off his neck. Theres one nice thing about the cult. Were rich. And that means I can afford things like this.
He squeezed the pendant, then pushed it against the de of his longsword. Mm erupted, and brilliant light shone as the entire de turned bright white.
Shit, Xerxes blurted.
Thats about how I would react if I saw an Archon-level Asgagu spell. And the sad thing is that, now that Ive cast it, I have to make it worth it. I hereby rescind my offer to let you live.
Raising the burning de, he jumped forward.
Chapter 89: Fight and Flight
Chapter 89: Fight and Flight
Xerxes jumped to the side, just barely avoiding Simeons wild attack. Then he lunged diagonally backward again, in the hopes of buying an extra second or two. He was at a serious disadvantage; his opponents entire de was now an expression of devastating energy, while his own weapon only had a glowing tip. The sword tip, the weakest part, wasnt suitable for defense. What was worse, Major Augmentationsted for twice as long as Minor Augmentation.
He couldnt afford to not cast a spell right now. The question was which part of his sword to augment. The tip, in the hopes ofnding a killing blow? Or somewhere along the strong of the sword, which would give him a shot at defending himself?
Xerxes grabbed some stibnite talc and cast Minor Augmentation. A momentter, a section close to the hilt zed. He raised his sword just in time to meet Simeons attack. Shining sparks exploded onto the street when the des met.
Simeon pressed the attack, and it was all Xerxes could do to prevent his weapon from being chopped in half. More sparks showered down as he barely managed to bat his opponents weapon aside.
Simeon took a passing step as he attacked relentlessly.
Xerxes struggled to prevent his opponents sword from touching the non-augmented portion of his de. Or worse; bypassing the weapon and hitting his body. If that glowing de so much as made contact with his skin, it would be painful at the minimum and deadly at most. He backed up again.
Running away? Simeon sneered.
Xerxes gritted his teeth. Without being able to let the strong of his sword contact with his enemys weapon, he was limited so badly that he wasnt even able to formte a n of attack.
Simeon put too much power into his attack and ended up overextending himself. Which created an opening. Xerxes snapped his sword forward.
Simeon screamed as the sharp tip of Xerxes sword bit deeply into his shoulder. He staggered backward.
Xerxes followed through with another attack, but Simeon threw his weapon in the way and blocked it.
Xerxes circled and attacked again. Simeon counterattacked. They fought back and forth in the street with neither of them gaining the upper hand.
Off to the side, Kashtiliash was still fighting the other mage. This was dragging on too long. What if the Abhorrent showed up?
Eventually, the light of Xerxes sword faded. Simeons didnt.
Simeon took advantage of the moment, rushing forward and unleashing a session of wild stabs and shes that bore little resemnce to the artistry of the Epitome. Perhaps because Simeon knew all he had to do wasnd a single blow to end Xerxes life.
By abination of jerky dancing, wild lunges, and inelegant scrambling, Xerxes kept out of the way. Fifteen seconds passed which seemed like fifteen minutes. Finally, the light of Simeons sword faded.
You fucker, Simeon said. Cant you just fight like a man instead of running like a baby?
Xerxes went into the Skyward guard. Now that we''re even, we finish this or we part ways. I suggest thetter.
No. Simeon rested his sword on his shoulder while digging into his garment. I swear to the Pontifarch Im going to make you feel pain for this. A medicinal pill appeared in his hand. Two of my most valuable resources wasted, thanks to you.
Whats that?
Simeon grinned. Its what will ensure I kill you. A pill I
A dog-sized rat bowled into Simeon from behind, knocking him t on his face and sending the pill flying off to the side. The rat Abhorrent buried its jaws into Simeons shoulder and scratched at him with its ws.
Further down the street, Xerxes saw a horde of smaller rat-like Abhorrent descend on the pill and start fighting over it. A momentter, one of them grabbed it and stuffed it into its mouth. There was a massive explosion of mm, and in the blink of an eye the Abhorrent transformed, growing dramaticallyrger in the process.
However, before it could finish its transformation, a blur of light hit it from the side. Kashtiliash. The Abhorrent shrieked and wed at him, but the bearded mage pummeled its head. Gandy dashed toward them.
Xerxes turned his attention back to Simeon, who had freed himself from the Abhorrent, killing it in the process. Panting, the man struggled to his feet.
My pill he grunted.
Behind him, Gandash and Kashtiliash destroyed one small rat after another.
Its gone now, Xerxes said. This fight is over.
I agree.
Xerxes caught a sh of motion as Simeon jumped forward. Whipping his sword around, Xerxes went into the Squinting sh. He bypassed Simeons weapon, and stabbed the enemy mage in the base of the neck. Then he twisted the sword and sliced it up toward Simeons head. Blood sshed as the front of Simeons neck was ripped out. His eyes went wide and he fell backward.
Meanwhile, Kashtiliash and Gandash were fleeing in the face of an evenrger swarm of Abhorrent rats.
We need to go! Gandash yelled.
Not giving Simeon another nce, Xerxes turned and ran. A momentter, he heard ugly screeching as the rats converged on Simeon. Regardless of whether the man was dead or not, he had mm inside of him that they would want to devour. Hopefully that would buy enough time that Xerxes, Gandash, and Kashtiliash could evade pursuit.
The three mages fled.
They were soon in a sea of chaos. The area by the prison had been mostly empty, presumably because there werent many residences nearby. But only two blocks away, the streets got more crowded.
There were lone Abhorrent, all of them spawn, that created further disarray. Panicked soldiers shed at rats and slug-like creatures. Ordinary citizens screamed.
By the third block, theyd caught sight of thepany as it forced its way through the streets toward the inner wall of the city.
As Gandash rushed to the front to take charge, Xerxes took a position toward the back of the line.
The ground trembled.
Xerxes looked back to see that all three of the massive juvenile Abhorrent were attacking the keep. One of them was the four-armed type hed faced twice in the past. The other two were the pale-skinned female type. Except, as their evolution progressed, the spindly legs came to epass them like cloaks, writhing about.
Crowds pressed against thepany. Some ordinary citizens cried to them for help. In fact, before long, they were being followed by a trail of bedraggled men, women, children, and elderly.
The mages and Unsighted troops of thepany, after all they had experienced fighting the Abhorrent so far, werent fazed by the asional rats that jumped out of shadows, or many-armed monsters that jumped down at them from rooftops.
It took about thirty minutes before they got through one of the inner wall gates. From there, it became easier to move around, as the outer city wasnt as cramped. Gandash led them in a roughly westerly direction.
More meteors started falling when they were about halfway through the outer city to the outer wall. On many asions in the past, Xerxes had seen the falling stars streaking across the sky andnding in distant locations. A few times, theyd reached the earth near him. This time, it was different. The meteors fell as if they were targeting the inner city itself, and most specifically, the keep. Some fell in the outer city, and others outside the wall. And they came without end.
Thepany eventually entered arge public square, where Gandash had them form into tighter ranks.
Mages, he yelled. To me.
The surviving mages of ck Jackalpany formed a circle. Xerxes tried not to think about how few of them there were. Himself and Gandash. Kashtiliash, Dasi, and Katayoun, the other High Seers. Ningsummunu, Kishar, and Teucer, the Seers. Eight mages, which was exactly half of the number who had paraded through the streets of Sin-Amuhhu on the way to start the mission.
Dasi, Gandash asked. Can you shapeshift? It would be very helpful to have eyes in the sky.
Sorry, no, she said. I used thest of my mm to get that key.
Shit, Gandash murmured. He closed his eyes briefly, then opened them. Then we go forward blind. Same rough formation as before. Ill lead. Kat, I want you up with me. Xerk has rear guard. Kishar, you stay back with him for healing. Everybody else, space out evenly.
Before anything else could be said, a meteor smashed into a nearby building, releasing a shockwave along with a spray of rubble. As shouts of pain and dismay filled the air, a spawn with pale skin and a reddish face crawled into the open, apanied by an acrid odor.
Unit One, take it out! shouted Sergeant Stratos.
Go! Gandash yelled.
After Unit One soldiers took out the Abhorrent spawn, they reformed their ranks and started marching. More meteors fell. More Abhorrent rushed them.
At first, ck Jackal was dominant. Until a horde of rats overwhelmed a group that had once been Unit Eight. Three soldiers fell, throats ripped out before the Btu mages could save them. ck Jackal Company pressed on.
Cubit by cubit, block by block, they made their way toward the outer wall of the city.
Fires raged. Crowds screamed. Abhorrent crawled everywhere.
The biggest upside was that the juveniles still seemed focused on the keep. The inner wall mostly obscured that area, though, making it impossible to see what was ying out. Xerxes just hoped that the monsters would remain focused on the city center long enough for ck Jackal to escape.
A stage one juvenile appeared, a beautiful woman with spidery legs. Kashtiliash killed her, but not before she gutted two Unsighted troops. A blockter, a meteornded right in the middle of their procession. Five soldiers lost their lives instantly. Ningsummunu was next to them, and his left leg was crushed below the knee.
Katayoun rushed to heal him, but a momentter yelled, Its too far gone!
Xerxes nearly vomited at the sight of the pulp that had once been Ningsummunus limb.
What do we do? he shouted.
Katayoun looked like she was about to cry. Cut it off here! she pointed at his thigh. After that Ill cast Minor Restoration. Itll close up the wound. Probably.
Hold him! Xerxes shouted to Kashtiliash. The bearded mage knelt and put his hands on Ningsummunus shoulders.
A longsword wasnt a tool for amputation, so Xerxes used Stratos short sword, backed by all of his High Seer strength, to saw Ningsummunus leg off above the knee. Ningsummunu, a Seer, couldnt fight against Kashtiliash, who was a High Seer. But he screamed until passing out.
After, Katayoun cast the spell. They watched the flesh, bone, and muscle working to stitch together. When the spell effects ended, Ningsummunu had a bleeding stump. It wasnt fully closed, but it would have to do.
Tie him to my back, Xerxes said.
No, Katayoun said. You need to be able to fight. Dasi should do it.
Fine.
They tied Ningsummunu to Dasis back, then pressed onward.
They were now within sight of the outer wall. There was fighting atop of it. Abhorrent and local soldiers.
More meteors fell.
And then Xerxes heart went cold when he saw an enormous hand suddenly reach up and grab the top lip of the outer wall. A hand that was dozens of cubits from one end to another.
Another hand appeared, mming onto the stone of the wall. Then a stage six juvenile climbed over it from the outside.
Chapter 90: We’ll Figure it Out
Chapter 90: We¡¯ll Figure it Out
The gigantic monster climbed over the city wall. Xerxes groaned. Not again.
Further ahead, Dasi stood with Ningsummunus still form on her back. At the head of the line, Gandy also craned his neck to look up.
Around them all, Unsighted soldiers muttered curses and hefted their weapons.
As the Abhorrent lurched over the wall like a giant, four-legged spider, Gandash shouted over his shoulder, Well use the same strategy asst time, except
The Abhorrent crawled along, crushing rooftops and shaking everything as it moved toward the middle of the city.
Its going to the keep, Katayoun said.
The creature made the ground tremble as it walked past ck Jackal Company on the north side.
Xerxes exhaled slowly. Except then the thing stopped. It stood stock still, its closest hand nted a short city block away from them. From this distance, it was easy to make out the countless swaying hands that covered its disgusting surface.
Whats it doing? Xerxes muttered.
Stratos, who was only a few cubits away, growled, And why dont these fuckers have eyes?
For a long moment, ck Jackal Company watched the monstrous creature. Then it moved. The ground trembled as it continued toward the inner parts of the city.
It must have sensed us, Katyoun said.
Theyre obviously focused on the keep, Xerxes said. Either theres something there they want or they think there is.
She looked at him. The Key?
Maybe. Simeon was a cultist, but he didnt even know he had the Key under his nose the entire time.
Lets go, Gandash shouted.
Thepany started moving again. The crowds got heavier the closer they got to the gates. People fled the city. Meteors smashed buildings around them. Fires burned and smoke filled the streets.
At the gate, everything slowed to a crawl. Gandash sent soldiers from Unit One and Unit Two into the vanguard position to clear the way.
Ten minutester, ck Jackal Company struggled through the gate and into the open like a butterfly escaping a cocoon. They were out of Puabi city.
Into more chaos.
Abhorrent were everywhere. Puabi soldiers fought them while citizens scrambled to flee the ming city.
ck Jackal Company formed up and started moving. Nearby Abhorrent were attracted to the mages, but none were beyond the spawn level. Now that they were on open ground, they destroyed any Abhorrent that came their way and moved as quickly as possible away from the city. By the time they were a few hundred cubits away, they were past the point where the Abhorrent were a problem.
They started running as fast as they could while keeping the mages grouped together with the Unsighted. About a thousand cubits from the city, they jogged to the top of a hill, where they stopped briefly to catch their breath.
Looking back, Xerxes saw a city burning and crumbling. People streamed from the gates. Abhorrent swarmed.
Some of the fleeing citizens passed their position on the hill and fled further into the night. Others gathered nearby, obviously hoping to find protection with ck Jackal.
For a few minutes, Gandash just had everyone catch their breath.
Xerxes sat down on the hillside. Katayoun sat next to him and leaned against his shoulder.
You okay? he asked.
Yeah.
They held hands. Then a scream ripped across the hillside.
Ningsummunu had regained consciousness.
I need to go, Katayoun said, pulling her hand out of his and rushing to Dasi and Ningsummunu.
Something caught Xerxes eye. Movement overhead. More falling stars. Many of them.
Xerxes wasnt sure what Katayoun did, but Ningusmmunu stopped screaming. After that, Gandash let them have another five minutes of rest before calling for another march. They moved as fast as the Unsighted could manage.
At a certain point, they passed the general area where Kashtiliash and Xerxes had hidden their fancy sword sheaths. It only took a few minutes to dig them up.
Not all of the Unsighted were soldiers. Many were attendants of some sort. To Xerxes, progress seemed excruciatingly slow. He couldnt help to think back to how he and the other High Seers had sped acrossnds like the wind.
Not here and now.
Meteors kept falling.
asionally, Abhorrent would attack from the darkness. They were all spawn, so for the most part, they were easy to deal with. Even still, three soldiers fell.
Hourster, they reached a hilltop that, while not exactly a teau, was possible to defend. Gandash said they would rest at this spot.
They had no supplies to allow them to entrench, not that it mattered, considering how exhausted everyone was. What was more, they didnt have any traveling supplies. Thankfully, Gandash had his holding bracelet.
There were no camping supplies therein, but there were enough food supplies that a simple fire would give them some hot sustenance.
As the Unsighted tended to that, Gandash called the mages together for a meeting.
As all of you can tell, were in a very bad position, Gandash said. We have very few supplies, no horses or carts, and a huge distance between us and the Gateway. The closest city to the north, Eresh, is gone ording to what the High Seers reported. There are other cities along the Brocade Road. Perhaps we could head toward one of them in the hopes of getting supplies.
After a long moment passed, Ningsummunu said, Gandy, Ive been loyal to you this entire time. And Ill stay that way. But the Unsighted are the problem here. Without them, we could make much better time.
Dasi shook her head. Its not that simple. Gandy, I hate to tell you, but the Abhorrent have been falling out of the skies for days. We never got to the Gateway. There are just too many of the fuckers. And most of them seemed to be falling to the north. I wouldnt be surprised if none of the northern cities are around anymore.
Gandash took her words stoically. I see.
Ningsummunu made an exasperated growl. We cant just walk like Unsighted all the way back home. Well get picked off one by one. Eaten.
Xerxes chose not to point out that Ningsummunu only had one leg now. Following his logic, it would make sense to leave him behind with the Unsighted.
Gandash simply sat there thinking for a long time. Finally he said, Military conventions be damned. I called for a vote before, and Im going to do the same here. Im personally obligated to keep the Unsighted safe. But I wont force the rest of you. Ningsummunu is right in some ways. If we left them behind, we could travel much faster. I just cant make myself abandon them. What do the rest of you think?
Xerxes thought back to the vote in the cave, and how little good it had done him to side with Jad. That said, if the High Seers had gone with Gandash to Puabi, perhaps they would have fallen into the trap as well, and all of them would have been locked away. In fact, they would likely have been stuck in a prison cell when the Abhorrent struck.
But that was neither here nor there. His stance had resulted in the schism between him and Gandash. Maybe this was his chance to make things right. Besides, he liked Stratos and the other soldiers. He didnt want to abandon them.
Im on your side, Gandy, he said. Maybe it will take longer, but we cant abandon the Unsighted.
The other mages took longer to weigh in.
Dasi raised her hand. Im in. Whats the point of being mages if we screw the Unsighted?
Kashtiliash was next. Practically speaking, I think we should leave them behind. Sorry. But it makes sense.
Next in line was Kishar. Everyone looked at her. It took about a minute for her topose her words. When she spoke, her voice was soft and apologetic. I vote to leave. We can move faster without them. Besides, the Abhorrent want mm from us, not them. Theyll probably stand a better chance of surviving on their own.
Xerxes didnt fault Kishar for her line of reasoning. However, based on what he knew, though the trace amounts of mm in Unsighted humans wasnt ideal for Abhorrent, it was still mm.
After Kishar was Kat.
During this entire time, my Unit is the only group thats still whole. Not a single casualty. I think I owe it to them to get them home. I vote to stick with the Unsighted.
Ningsummunu grimaced. Id rather live as a scoundrel than die pointlessly with noble ideals. I say we leave them.
Ningsummunu was staring at the ground, so he didnt notice the expressions on the faces of the other mages. Kishar looked confused. Kashtiliash sneered, though only for a fraction of a second. Teucer looked incredulous.
Did Ningsummunu assume that one of the other mages would carry him? Xerxes opened his mouth to remind Ningsummunu that he had no leg. But then he closed his mouth. What was the point?
Teucer had thest vote. The current lineup was four to three, which meant that if he agreed with Gandash, the final tally would be five to three, and they would stay with the Unsighted. If he voted against Gandash, the vote would be split evenly, and would require a tiebreaker of some sort.
Teucer took even longer than Kishar. When he finally spoke, he said, My parents back home on Harmu are Unsighted. Most of my friends too. Theyre people, just like we are. We shouldnt leave people behind. I vote with the captain.
Neither Kashtiliash nor Kishar seemed upset about how the vote turned out. Ningsummunu, on the other hand, glowered at the dirt in front of him.
Gandash looked around at the group. The votes been cast. We stick together. Well rest here until sunrise. Then well continue west.
Later, when Katayoun and Xerxes were alone in their tent, wrapped in each others arms, she said, It took us a month to get here. How the hell are we going to make it back across all thatnd?
He ran his hand down her cheek and toward her shoulder. Well figure it out.
Chapter 91: The Last Stretch
Chapter 91: The Last Stretch
It started raining during the night, and didnt let up in the morning. The water thrumming on the tent soothed Xerxes.
As they made ready for travel, he thought back to the storms the constable Daniyel had mentioned.
That storm from the other day wasnt a one-off, was it? he said to Katayoun. It was the start of the rainy season.
I think youre right.
In the frenzied flight from the city, they hadnt been able to free their horses or find new ones. That made the scouting harder. But there were still some members of the old light cavalry units, who were trained for such duties regardless of being mounted or not. One of them, Tustimant, ran ahead of thepany to get an idea of they of thend. Thanks to his efforts, plus the maps Gandash had, they identified a westward route that would allow them to stay off the road, and hopefully find shelter in caves or forested areas.
Xerxes heart was in his throat for almost the entire day. He found himself constantly looking over his shoulder expecting to see a horde of Abhorrent bearing down on them. That was when he wasnt peering ahead to see where they might be ambushed.
But for an entire day, they didnt see any signs of movement. Were the Abhorrent really so focused on Puabi that they were going to let ck Jackalpany just leave?
They found a dry spot to set up camp. After the tents were pitched and sentries posted in nearby trees, Xerxes huddled by a fire with Katayoun, Teucer, and Dasi.
As they ate gruel and drank water, Katayoun said, I wonder if the Abhorrent dont like rain.
Teucer cocked his head. We didnt see a single one when we were holed up in that cave.
That could have been coincidence, Dasi said. Wed just killed that big one, plus hordes of spawn. Besides, the big one attacked in the middle of a storm.
More like the beginning of one.
Xerxes thought about it for a few spoonfuls of gruel. If it were as simple as that, we would know about it already. Kat, do you remember anything from that book? Surviving a Trip to the Nightmare Cove?
Katayoun shook her head. I read it before the ss, and I thought it was fiction, so I wasnt paying much attention. After Mystic Rabya said it wasnt fiction, I wanted to re-read it but never had the chance.
There was one part, Dasi said. Something about a rainforest.
Katayoun stopped eating. Youre right. Anunnaki Ninursag was injured and out of mm. She rigged up some sort of raft and floated down a river. Now that you mention it, that was one part of her journey that didnt mention any Abhorrent.
Seriously? Teucer said. Heughed. Theres no way the Abhorrent are scared of rain. Thats ridiculous.
Who knows? Katayoun continued. But Im certain of that part of the story. The author doesnt make any spections about why the Abhorrent didnt bother Ninursag. But I definitely remember that part. I kept expecting something bad to happen because she had no mm. Isnt that when youd expect bad things to happen to a mage in a story? When they cant use magic?
If its true, maybe we should keep marching through the night. Its still raining out there.
We have a month to go, Xerxes said. No use wearing ourselves out this soon.
The rain let up during the night, but resumed in the morning. As before, there were no signs of Abhorrent. Of course, with the sky choked with clouds, there was no way to determine with certainty if meteor showers were urring.
But as the second day of travel turned into a third day, the rain continued. For an entire week, they dealt with mud and cold. Theck of the monsters and their stench made it worth it.
As they entered the second week of travel, everyone in the group was convinced that the presence of rain meant no Abhorrent. The events of Puabi weighed on everyones hearts, but morale was climbing higher.
The rain stopped on the second day of travel during the second week.
They found a horse. It was impossible to say where it came from, but it had a saddle, and seemed friendly. And it allowed for much more effective scouting runs.
Despite that, and Gandashs more strict marching orders, anxiety mounted. Without the rain, everyone worried about Abhorrent attacks.
They didnte.
Clouds cleared, giving a view of the starry sky. And no meteor showers. Xerxes found it all, in some ways, more disturbing. What happened to the Abhorrent? Where were they?
As the second week of travel came to an end, mountains rose up in front of them. The same mountains the High Seers had attempted to pass not too long ago.
When they reached the road that ran north to south, and found it empty, Xerxes enthusiasm to reach the Gatewayplex gave way to worry.
Gandash called for a meeting of the mages and officers.
I have a bad feeling, he said. What about the rest of you?
I think we all feel the same, Katayoun said.
Xerxes didnt hesitate to add. Where are the Abhorrent?
Gandash unfurled a map and put it between them all. Theres one road that actually goes through the mountain. And two obvious areas we can get through without a road. This one here, to the north, is where the High Seers went through. Right, Dasi?
Dasi leaned over the map. Thats right.
Given your description of the terrain on the other side, it doesnt seem like the ideal ce to cross. And I want to avoid the road as much as possible. But before wemit to climbing a mountain, I want to scout the area. Dasi. Xerxes. Im assigning you. Xerxes, youre our only Asgagu High Seer. If fighting breaks out, youll be the best choice to deal with it. And Dasi, as our shapeshifter, you have a tremendous advantage over the rest of us. I want you to get to the top of the mountain, shapeshift into a bird form, and see whats going on. If possible, identify the best path from the mountains to the Gatewayplex.
Xerxes took a moment to digest Gandashs orders. He looked at Katayoun. Her expression was neutral.
Im low on mm, Dasi said.
Here. Gandash held out a pill. Ourst Double Concentrated Mm Pill.
Dasi took the pill. Ill make it count.
Good.
As Xerxes made the final preparations, Katayoun fretted off to the side.
No, tie the loop the other way, she said as he worked on binding his garments to allow for high speed running.
He switched the fabric and tied the loop the other way.
You should bring an extra knife, she said.
Isnt a sword and one knife enough? he asked.
Better safe than sorry.
He put another knife on his belt.
When he was finally ready, he said, Good enough?
She nodded, then stepped to him and embraced him. Come back, she said.
Of course I will. Were going scouting, not raiding.
There were still hours until sunset as Dasi and Xerxes set out at High Seer speed, racing south down the road. The terrain was familiar. Last time, though, theyd opted to go further north, and hadnt explored this section of the mountains.
After running for only about ten minutes, they angled into a narrow valley. From the road, the valley looked to be choked with trees. But it became apparent that the forested area quickly gave way to barend.
Wish wed known about this before, Dasi said when they stopped briefly for water.
He shrugged. No use second-guessing.
True. Ready to run up a mountain?
Ready as ever. You lead?
Yeah.
Xerxes double checked hisponent pouch and sword, then got moving. This mountain path was much easier than the one to the north. They didnt do any doubling back, and reached the top without incident. They crossed a narrow teau, and were once again looking out over thends stretching to the Gateway.
Holy Pontifarch, Dasi murmured.
Xerxes scalp tingled. Thends below were destroyed. Before, they had been filled with forests, rivers, and other terrain features. Viges and towns had dotted thendscape here and there, and roads had been just barely visible.
Things looked apocalyptic now. Half of the forests burned or leveled. Viges and towns gone. Craters could be seen in numerous locations.
And there was movement everywhere. Packs of Abhorrent were obviously on the move. Somerge Abhorrent were visible in a few locations, likely stage five or six juveniles.
So did they alle here? Xerxes asked.
Dasi took out a spyss and put it to her eye. Maybe. For all we know, they sacked Puabi and kept going east. These could be the ones that fell from the sky.
Xerxes shook his head. I dont think so. I think they went to Eresh thinking the Gateway Key was there. When they realized it wasnt, they took out Puabi. And when that failed, they took the fast way back, that north road. Think about it, if theyre after that Key, then they know that welle this way. Why waste time hunting for us when we have toe to them?
Dasi grunted. Recing her spyss, she loosened herponent pouch. Well, nows as good a time as any to get a birds eye view of everything. Im going into eagle form. Ill fly out as far as I can, and observe as much as I can. If I see a safe spot tond, return to human form, and cast a second spell, I will. Otherwise Ille right back.
Sounds good. Be safe, Dasi.
Always.
She transformed into arge brown eagle with yellow eyes, and flew off the mountain. The updrafts caught her, and she was soon soaring out across thends, bing a dot that Xerxes could barely track, before she finally vanished. From that point, he had nothing to do but wait for her return.
As he looked out at the Abhorrent-chokednds, he wondered what orders Gandash would give when they returned. Could they realistically sneak to the Gateway with the Unsighted in tow? It would be a trip of at least ten or fifteen days, traveling through rough territory controlled by enemies that could sense their presence? If they somehow left the Unsighted behind, for instance, hiding in a cave system with plenty of supplies, would the mages even be able to make the journey with their superior speed? What would happen if the Gatewayplex itself was upied?
Such thoughts upied him for about fifty minutes. That was when he caught movement below.
Dasi, he murmured, standing up. She was flying back toward him in eagle form. Chased by three flying Abhorrent.
Chapter 92: Aerial Clash
Chapter 92: Aerial sh
Dasi pped her wings as she shot through the sky toward the mountains. The Abhorrent were so far behind her that Xerxes couldnt make out any details about them. But he could tell they were catching up to their quarry.
Come on, Dasi, he said, reaching around to the hilt of his sword. He pulled the weapon off his back. Not that it would do any good until Dasi was at his side. Even though he wasnt an archer, he suddenly wished hed brought a bow and arrows. Or even a few javelins.
Dasi caught an updraft, soaring high before tucking her wings against her side and increasing speed rapidly in a dive. However, it only got her so far before she had to spread her wings wide again and gain altitude.
By the time she halved the distance to Xerxes, he got a clear view of the flying Abhorrent. They didnt corrte to any existing living things he knew. They had wings, of a sort. Massive, leathery appendages that stretched away from oblong bodies. The beasts had single eyes up front, ck orbs that glistened wetly as they flew along. Hanging beneath them were dozen of tentacles, octopus-like, except with sharp hooks at the end.
He tried to assess their size, to get an idea of whether they were spawn or juveniles, but the perspective and angle made that difficult.
Dasi raced toward him. The Abhorrent flew after.
One of the monsters angled up, gaining altitude rapidly while the other two got closer and closer to Dasi.
Theyre not that big. Probably spawn. Theres no way some spawn will cause real trouble for Dasi.
He loosened hisponent pouch. His current n was to wait until Dasi was just about tond. Then he would cast Minor Augmentation and unleash fury on the Abhorrent. He would stab their ck eyes, and hopefully kill each one with a single attack. The things didnt have any natural armor, so it seemed reasonable to assume they would die easily.
The monster whod climbed into the sky tucked its wings against its body and dove, heading toward Dasi at high speed.
Watch out, Dasi, he said, his fingers tightening on the hilt of his sword. Behind you!
Dasi noticed at the veryst second. She tucked her wings in slightly and veered to the left to avoid the falling Abhorrent.
Except, its tentacles were long. They shot out, the hooks slicing through the air like a farmers scythe.
One of the hooks hit Dasi. It knocked her in a loop and caused a puff of feathers.
The diving Abhorrent was now below her. The other two were close behind her. She pped her wings and tried to gain altitude, but was favoring the wing that had been hit.
Just get to me, Dasi. Ill handle them.
Dasi climbed higher, then higher still. Then she tried to gain speed and distance with another dive.
Xerxes tore his attention from the chase to look around his current position. He had no ranged weapons on his person, but if he could find some good rocks, there was always a chance he could throw them at the Abhorrent.
Unfortunately, the ground was nothing but packed earth, and the rocks were all boulders.
Dasi was now flipping through the air left and right to avoid the Abhorrent and their tentacles. Up and down. Left and right.
All the while, she favored her injured wing. At the moment, they were at least a hundred cubits away from Xerxes position, and about half that above the surface of the mountain.
An Abhorrent climbed and dove. It hit her, striking with the backs of its tentacles.
Dasi started falling, reverting to her human shape along the way. Below her were countless sharp rock formations, interspersed with hard-packed earth.
Fuck, Xerxes blurted, taking another step forward. Could he throw his sword? Even if he could, there were three enemies to deal with. If he killed one, he would then be unarmed but for Singr Lethality.
Dasi iled her arms and legs, but quickly tucked them in and reached for herponent pouch. Spellcasting while falling out of the sky? It wasnt impossible. In the Institute, theyd received instruction on how to cast spells in difficult conditions, such as during windstorms or rainfall. But in those situations, the first step was to find a stable ce to nt your feet.
There were only seconds to work with. Dasi had to get out herponent, trace the rune, and shapeshift back into a flying creature before she got too close to the ground.
Xerxes felt like his jaw was about to fall off from clenching it so tightly.
You can do this, he murmured.
He saw mm stirring around her. And then an Abhorrent mmed into her from the side. The mm stopped.
She tumbled as the Abhorrent wheeled away and turned around.
Her arms and legs had gone ck. They whipped in the wind as she fell back-first toward the steep mountain side.
No. Wake up, Dasi. Theres still time.
The three Abhorrent soared above her falling form.
She was only ten cubits from the ground.
Five cubits.
Xerxes closed his eyes and looked away when she hit.
Opening his eyes, he saw the Abhorrent dropping down. Dasi had fallen behind a rock outcropping, such that he had no way to see her. But shed fallen at least fifty or more cubits. Not even a High Seer could survive that.
He broke into a jog, determined to make his way down the slope and y the Abhorrent. What if, by some wild twist of fate, Dasi hadnded in a way that enabled her to survive?
But the Abhorrent were already on the ground. He stopped walking.
Dasi was gone. She had to be.
And the Abhorrent had wings. If he didnt kill them all with extreme efficiency, one or more could get airborne and quickly bring reinforcements. Juvenile Abhorrent that could outrun him, were stronger than him, and had magical abilities.
He ground his teeth as he stood looking down the slope. Then he took three steps back and leaned against a boulder.
A few secondster, he heard a piercing, inhuman scream apanied by a shockwave of mm. One of the Abhorrent shot straight up into the air, surrounded by strands of mm, its odd wings grew in size, while at the same time, the tentacles beneath it entwined around each other.
It was experiencing a breakthrough. Which meant that it had consumed Dasis mm from her chambers of energy.
Xerxes felt emptiness growing within him.
The Abhorrents multiple tentaclesbined into a single,rger tentacle. What was more, its single ck eye split apart into four eyes in a diamond configuration.
It shrieked again as it climbed higher into the sky. The other two monsters took to flight, following it away.
Xerxes simply leaned against the boulder for a while. He felt like he should be crying, yet tears wouldnte. When he was sure the flying beasts werenting back, he went down the slope.
When he found Dasis corpse, he dropped to his knees and threw up.
Her body wasnt even in one piece. The Abhorrent must have fought over her like wolves fighting over a fallen sheep. And that was after shed hit the rocks.
Mystic Rabyas words from a lecture popped into his mind.
Youre in Military Magic, my friends, she said. And military means war. Youre going to see friends die. Maybe in horrible ways. Youll have to learn topartmentalize. Put the horror and the sadness away, and focus on practical things. As mages,ponents are important. Is a fallen friendsponent pouch visible? Take it. Do they have money on their person? Dont let the enemy get it. Youll have time for mourning and heartacheter. But not in the field.
He took a deep breath and found Dasisponent pouch. It was empty.
He muttered a curse.
Dasis head, neck, and shoulders were all in one piece. Even in death, she was pretty. Exotic, with her piercings. Memories shed through his mind. Times in the Institute. The failed attempt to reach the Gatewayplex. The infiltration of Puabi.
Crouching next to her, he closed her eyes.
Im sorry, Dasi, he said. Im sorry I couldnt help.
He carefully unsped the silver ne shed worn and put it away. Perhaps one day he would be able to find her family and give it to them.
The ground was hard, but using his sword, he was able to scrape out a very shallow grave, into which he gathered her remains. After pushing the dirt on top of the hole, he wrenched a small boulder out of the ground and ced it on top.
Looking down at the grave, he thought about offering a prayer.
But to who?
As he considered what to say, he found his breathing turning heavier and more ragged. His cheeks became more slick.
Finally, he prayed, Monad. Pontifarch. I dont care who you are. We asked for your help, and you didnt give anything. Did you even hear Kats prayer when Jad died? Or did you hear it but just ignore it?
He stood there in the wind, shaking his head slowly as he looked at Dasis grave. Then he looked out at thends below. There was still lots of movement. Perhaps some of the flying Abhorrent. Maybe something else. It was too far to tell for sure.
It was time to leave.
He looked up into the sky. Enusat. Jad. Dasi. Arwia. Kuri. Tizqar. Ningal. Atra-Hasis. Laxu. Vadamerca. I remember all of their names, even if you dont. You didnt help us at all. Not one bit. So Im done offering my prayers to you. Goodbye.
He walked back up the slope, crossed the mountain, then started running down.
Thinking back to Mystic Rabyas advice, he crushed the tumult within him and focused on the task of getting down the mountains safely. For one thing, he kept checking the skies above him. Now thatrge flying Abhorrent were part of the scenario, everything was different.
However, none appeared, nor any other type of monster. He made it down the mountain, through the trees, and then ran up the road toward the camp.
Before entering, he stopped topose himself, initially intending to take a few seconds to simply catch his breath. But the seconds turned into a minute. Then minutes.
The memory of Dasis mangled corpse seemed unshakable.
Finally, he entered the camp. Many eyes locked onto him, including those of Sighted and Unsighted. Katayoun rushed over.
Wheres Dasi?
He didnt answer. He just took her hand and pulled her with him toward Gandashs tent.
Gandash opened the p as Xerxes neared.
Xerxes stopped a few cubits away. He opened his mouth to speak, only to find words failing him.
Gandash stepped out, his face a stony mask. Xerk.
Dasis dead. There are big flying Abhorrent on the other side of the mountain. She shapeshifted into an eagle. They got to her before she couldnd. I couldnt His voice cracked suddenly, and his throat felt swollen. He swallowed hard. Shes dead.
Gandash was clearly trying hard not to react, but couldnt prevent his cheek from twitching. I see.
Feeling more tightness in his chest and throat, Xerxes continued, The situation is bad. Abhorrent are everywhere. As far as the eye can see. I dont know how well get to the Gateway. Can I go now?
Of course. Youre dismissed.
Chapter 93: What Would Gandash Order?
Chapter 93: What Would Gandash Order?
Xerxes wasnt sure why Dasis death shook him so hard. Hed been much closer with Jad and Enusat, and though their loss had hit him, it didnt unsettle him this deeply. Maybe it was the shocking image of her mutted corpse, and the way it seared itself into his brain. Or the fact that hed been forced to watch, unable to do anything.
Back in their tent, Katayoun tried to calm him down, but it didnt work. He didnt realize it, but he only answered her with one or two word sentences. Eventually, she got frustrated, though she tried to hide it.
He apologized, and started talking. Once the word came out, they didnt stop. He talked and talked until his throat hurt. When it was over, he was in Katayouns arms sobbing.
Later, he didnt remember half of what hed said. Nor did he want to revisit the topic. He fell into a deep sleep thatsted until Katayoun shook him awake in the morning.
Gandash is calling a meeting, she said.
He groaned, dressed, and stepped out of the tent into a misty morning. There was no sign of the sun or sky, and he wondered if rain was on the horizon again.
Gandash had the mages and Unsighted officers gather in the conference tent again.
Xerxes was thest to arrive.
As youve all heard, Gandash said, we lost Dasi. And we now have to worry about flying Abhorrent. Xerk, can you tell us any more about them?
Theyre bizarre. And big. Probably human-sized. Lots of tentacles, with hooks on the end. They dont look like any animal Ive ever seen.
Thank you. And, based on what you said before, theres no clear path to the Gatewayplex. Is that right?
Xerxes nodded. At least, thats my impression. From where we stood on the mountain, it was like everything was full of Abhorrent. But maybe it would be possible to sneak through carefully.
Do we want to risk our lives on a maybe? Teucer asked.
No, Xerxes replied. At least, thats my opinion.
Gandash sighed. I agree. But the fact remains we have to get to the Gateway. As you know, I have food supplies in my holding bracelet, but they wontst forever. Right now, my inclination is to head into the mountains and find a safer ce to hole up. Caves. Something like that. Then we take some time to look at thends on the other side. Maybe even scout them. Get a better idea of what it will take to get to the Gatewayplex.
At this point he trailed off for a moment. Then his eyes hardened. Im going to issue orders about what to do. But given how everythings gone to shit, I want to make sure everybody is on board with what we do next. We cant afford any bad feelings or doubts. So if anybody else has any other suggestions, nows the time to bring them forward. He looked around the tent.
Teucer lifted his hand. Gandy, he said. I just want to say that I trust you. Youve done everything you thought was right. Maybe in retrospect some of the decisions werent perfect, but you tried. And right now Ill follow you whatever you do. Are you sure it wouldnt be smart to just try to disappear? This continent has ice and snow in the north. Maybe we could find a ce to hide until the Combined Armed Forcese in full force.
First, Gandash said, thanks for your words. To answer your question, trying to hide out somewhere is an option. But I dont think its a good one. We have no idea how long it will take Sin-Amuhhu to realize whats happening here. And once they do, how do we know they wont just abandon Jehannemid to the Abhorrent? If they doe, how would they find us? The supply issues remain the same regardless of where we go. Feeding this many people is going to be a constant issue.
Dont forget that we have a Gateway Key. That means that, as long as we can get to the Gateway, we can use it to go up. We can leave this ce.
He looked around the tent. None of the mages seemed inclined to offer input.
Captain? Sergeant Stratos said. Permission to speak?
Granted.
I dont speak for all the Unsighted, but I ave something which ought to be said. Sir, you Sighted mages are a lot faster than us Unsighted. We slow you down. Why not go ahead? We can find a ce to ole up on our own. We might not have magic, but were tough. Let us take care of ourselves while you go to the Gateway. Best case scenario, you send elp back. Worst case, we unker down until these fucking monsters give up and leave.
I second that, said Sergeant Vasilios, from Jads old unit.
Me too, another sergeant said.
The other officers all said simr things.
Gandash sighed again, this time more deeply. That is, of course, a possibility. But for now, well stay together. Does anyone have anything else to add? No one did. Meeting adjourned. Well break camp and head into the mountains. Once were safe, well consider the next step. Go.
Fifteen minutester, they made their way across the road, then south. They went past the ce Dasi and Xerxes had made their ascent, and climbed into the mountains via a different path. Two hours up the mountain, they found the perfect location. Three caves near each other that wererge enough to house everyone.
They fortified each cave mouth, though not with wooden stakes. They shifted earth around and used High Seer strength to move boulders. The result was three caves, each of which could be defended, but werent obviously being used as fortifications.
Later, Gandash asked Xerxes, Katayoun, and Kashtiliash to apany him up the mountain. They brought Sergeants Stratos, Laz, and Arda with them.
Upon finding a narrow teau that offered a good view, they studied whaty before them.
They had three spysses between them. After everyone had a chance to examine the situation, Gandash said, You were right, Xerxes. This is bad.
What about there, Kashtiliash said. He pointed to a specific area of the terrain, then put the spyss to his eye. See? By that river.
Gandash looked in the same direction. Hmm. Its difficult to tell exactly how those hills are situated. But I see what you mean. Theres a lot of emptynd there.
Its like I mentioned, Captain, Stratos said. I know all the talk among the men about what appened before. The Igh Seers going off for elp. It didnt work out. But the n wasnt bad to begin with. Lieutenant Ningsummunusme now. Lieutenants Kishar and Teucer are only Seers. The four of you are High Seers. You can cover thisnd in less than a day. So do it. Get to the Gateway. Bring help if you can. And if you cant, then we just be cave rats for a time.
Xerxes thought back to when they voted on Jads proposal. Had it really been the right decision? Was it smart to do the same thing right now? He wasnt sure. Would the Abhorrent ever be done with Jehannemid? Or did they n to stay? If the High Seers left, would they be abandoning the rest of ck Jackal to their deaths?
I understand your suggestion, Sergeant, Gandash said. Would you and the other sergeants please go back to the camp? I need to have words with the High Seers.
Yes, sir.
After the sergeants were gone, Gandash looked at Kashtiliash, Xerxes, and Katayoun.
What do you think? he asked.
Xerxes doubted Kashtiliash would be the first to make a speech, so he looked at Katayoun. She was gazing at the horizon, beyond which were the mountains where the Gatewayplex was.
Theres no right choice, Xerxes said. Were damned if we do, damned if we dont.
Gandash noticed Katayouns expression and followed her gaze to the mountains. Im afraid youre right.
The three High Seers stood in silence for a time.
I dont agree, Kashtiliash said.
Xerxes looked at the bearded mage. Gandash did the same.
There is a right choice, its just a hard one to make, Kashtiliash continued. We dont want to abandon our friends. Our fellow warriors and mages. So we dont want to continue alone. But its the smartest thing. Before, Jad wanted us to do the same thing because he was afraid. Im still not sure what his real n was. Escape? Help his family? I guess well never know.
Maybe he didnt know, and maybe thats why the n was doomed. Maybe the Pontifarch saw the weakness in his heart. In our hearts. So he withheld his blessing.
But right here and now, the hard choice is the only choice. The four of us should make a break for it. Run as fast as we fucking can. Get to that Gateway. Ask for help. The only other option is a slow death.
It was another record for Kashtiliash. Xerxes had never heard him make a longer speech. And Xerxes couldnt think of anything to say in response. He wanted to argue against the points made, but had to admit that it was logically sound.
Katayoun finally spoke, her voice so soft Xerxes had to strain to hear her words clearly. What if we make it off of Jehannemid, and they dont send anyone back? Then we really would be leaving our friends to die.
Wed have the key, Xerxes said. We could juste back if we wanted.
Kashtiliash shook his head. No. Gandash will have to turn the key over. First thing. Kats right. But going on our own is still the smart thing.
A flit of motion caught Xerxes eye. He narrowed his eyes as he craned his neck. Flying Abhorrent, he said. There.
They were so far away it wasnt possible to make out their anatomical details. But he was fairly sure they were the same type that had killed Dasi. Maybe even the exact same ones.
Lets go, Gandash said. Keep this discussion between the four of us for now. I wont make a decision for a few more days.
They went back to the cave camps.
During the following days, they continued to make observations of thends between the mountains and the Gatewayplex. They made a crude map, identified possible routes, and tried to determine what the Abhorrent were actually doing.
Kishar, the only mage left who had been assigned to light cavalry, helped in scouting the surrounding mountains. They identified locations where food could be foraged, and confirmed that there was game to be found, such as squirrels, rabbits, and deer, or at least the Jehannemid equivalent to those creatures.
The entire time, the question loomed.
What would Gandash order?
Chapter 94: Racing to the Gateway
Chapter 94: Racing to the Gateway
When Gandash made the decision for the High Seers to make a break for the Gateway, the Unsighted troops didnt seem very surprised. Of course, the fact that they were conditioned to follow orders made that something of a foregone conclusion.
Teucer took the news with a taciturn nod of his head, as if hed expected it to happen.
Kishar wept. Katayoun put an arm around her shoulder and whispered to her softly. The two eventually left the cave to talk in private.
Ningsummunu took the news the worst.
Are you fucking kidding me? he said. I stood by your side, Gandash. I voted with you when Jad was leading his insurrection. And this is the thanks I get? Abandoned and left to die?
Were not abandoning you, Ning, Gandash said. Were going to get help.
Ningsummunu looked away. Thats exactly what Jad said.
Xerxes had to admit that Ningsummunu was right. No matter what exnation was given, and no matter how theyyered their logic, Gandash was now doing exactly what Jad had pushed so hard for.
Gandash tried to mask his frustration but failed as he said, Ning, Ill never forget your loyalty. And I promise you that extracting you from Jehannemid is going to be my top priority once I reach the Gateway. Even if I have to vite orders, I will Shit. But there was no way for Xerxes to jump to help him.
He had no idea what Gandash or Katayoun were doing.
More wolves came.
Everything turned into a blur of blood, pain, and desperation.
His sword became heavy. Heavier than anything hed ever lifted. His shoulders ached. His back screamed at him. But he kept fighting.
Eventually, he couldnt lift the weapon much past his waist. He lurched forward and stabbed into a wolfs mouth. It growled, tried to paw at him, then went still. He desperately tried to pull the sword back out, but failed. He yanked at it. Heaved. It was stuck. He let go, and the sword dropped to the ground, still buried in the creature.
He looked around.
The wolves were all dead. The stream flowed with ck blood, intermixed with asional streaks of red.
Ignoring his sword, he turned to look at the tree. Gandash slumped against it. Katayoun stood next to him holding a short sword, panting.
Kash? he croaked. He scanned the area. Kash?
There, Katayoun said, pointing. She threw the sword to the ground and started walking.
Xerxes spotted the bearded mage on the bank of the stream, surrounded by wolf corpses. Hey face down, and he wasnt breathing.
Chapter 95: Why Would Spawn Flee?
Chapter 95: Why Would Spawn Flee?
Katayoun reached Kashtiliash first.
Kash, she murmured, grabbing him beneath the armpits and dragging him out of the water.
Xerxes arrived a momentter and helped. Once away from the water, they turned him onto his back in the mud. Gandash reached their side a secondter.
Light a lightning bolt from heaven, Xerxes was hit with the memory of Gemying in a street on Mannemid, his life blood seeping out of him, and Bel to the side. He blinked to clear the memory.
Kashtiliash was covered in blood, ck and red. His arm was torn, and at just a single nce, Xerxes spotted many other wounds. However, his throat didnt seem to be damaged, nor did Xerxes spot any wounds to the abdomen or chest. He had to be alive. Right?
Kash, Katayoun said, jabbing her fingers into his throat to feel for a pulse.
Dont be dead, you bastard, Xerxes said.
Katayoun, shifted the angle of her hand and dug her fingers further into Kashtiliashs neck. His hearts beating.
She opened one of herponent pouches, took out a handful of green sand, and traced a rune in it. Xerxes saw the mm gathering, and then the spell was cast. Katayoun touched Kashtiliashs face gently, and the mm swept through him.
The deep furrows on his forearm stitched together. He spasmed as other injuries were healed. Then Kashtiliash gasped hoarsely. He opened his eyes.
Xerxes reached down and sped his friends shoulder. You made it, he said, his voice shaky.
Guess I did, Kashtiliash responded. He sat up.
Gandash squatted off to the side. Xerk, are you hurt?
For the first time, Xerxes took time to examine himself. Pain was starting to build up. A wolfs jaws had reached one of his forearms, biting down hard. Blood seeped from several puncture wounds. He had a simr injury on his calf. In general, he felt battered. And now that the fighting was over, he noticed the stench that hung over the area.
Im fine.
Katayoun eyed the blood and puncture wounds. No youre not. Maybe you dont need Minor Restoration, but I need to take care of those wounds. Who knows what disgusting stuff is in Abhorrent saliva. Not to mention the dirt. You could get an infection.
I agree, Gandash said. Kat, can you patch him up? Then well catch our breath and keep moving.
He stood, stepped around, and offered a hand to Kashtiliash. Kashtiliash took it and stood.
You fought like a beast, Kash, Gandash said.
Kashtiliash nodded. Thanks.
Gandash turned his head. You too, Xerk.
Xerxes nodded. Katayoun helped him up and took him over to a nearby rock, where there was less blood and gore. She cut away some of the cloth of his garment, then used a rag and some stream water to clean him as best she could. She applied a powder to the wounds, then wrapped them in bandages. The process took about ten minutes.
By that time, the thrill and desperation of the fight had worn off, to be reced by aches, pain, and exhaustion. Xerxes sagged a bit as he sat on the boulder. Damn, Im tired.
I can imagine, Katayoun said as she worked on the bandage around his leg.
I think you outscored me, Kashtiliash said, approaching them with Gandash in tow. Both of them had cleaned off in the stream.
You were keeping a tally? Xerxes asked with a weak grin.
At first, yeah. Then things got heated.
How bad do you feel, Xerk? Gandash asked.
Xerxes stretched his neck and cracked his knuckles. Ive been worse. Not sure when, exactly. But Im sure theres been a time.
Katayoun pulled the bandage snug and secured it. She stepped away from Xerxes. If we were in an ordinary situation, she said, Id put you on bed rest immediately.
I wish we could all be on bed rest, Gandash said.
Im fine, Xerxes said, pushing himself onto his haunches, then standing. A wave of dizziness hit him, and his arms windmilled as he tried to catch his bnce.
Katayoun grabbed his elbow and steadied him. Im not sure about that.
He took a deep breath and closed his eyes. Really, Im fine.
How much blood did he lose, Kat? Gandash asked.
Its hard to say. Those fangs didnt seem to nick any major blood vessels.
We could look for a cave, Gandash said. If we can find one deep enough, we can hole up
No, Xerxes said. Opening his eyes, he gently pushed Katayouns hand off of his elbow. I just got dizzy from sitting in one ce for too long. A couple of dog bites arent going to stop me. Let me get my sword, and Ill be ready to go.
He wrenched his longsword out of the gut of the dead wolf Abhorrent, then took it to the stream and scrubbed it down.
Then they left the grisly clearing of ughtered wolves behind. They followed the stream for a time, then crossed through a brown forest. A cloud of flying leeches descended on them, but that type of Abhorrent was more annoying than dangerous.
They left behind dozens of in vermin and received only a few flesh wounds in the process.
Progress slowed.
The terrain grew rougher, and the Abhorrent grew more numerous. They began doubling back more often, and taking greater pains to circle aroundrge Abhorrent, or groups of them.
All the while, the shadow of the mountains on the horizon grew more distinct.
By the time evening fell, they were confident that they had covered about half the distance to their destination.
Well get there tomorrow, Gandash said as they hunkered down for the night in a section of a forest that barely counted as a clearing.
Xerxes felt more exhausted than he ever had in his life. The soles of his feet radiated pain up through his calves and past his knees. There were blisters on his hands, and the stench made it difficult to breathe. His wounds ached, and he was sore from the fighting. Thinking that he hurt too badly to sleep, he offered to take the first watch. Gandash refused and insisted on taking that slot.
There was a tree directly overhead that rose a bit higher than the average tree in the forest, and it seemed as good a spot as any to keep a lookout on the surroundings.
Xerxes decided he would rest his head for a few minutes, and after it was certain he couldnt sleep, would demand to take over the watch.
He was out cold within seconds.
Katayoun shook him awake when it was still dark. I need rest, she said. You have thest watch.
Stifling a groan, he got to his feet and climbed the tree. Every part of him ached, but it wasnt as bad as before hed fallen asleep.
The night was still. There were a few patchy clouds, but the stars were out. After everything that had happened, he looked up and wondered when he would see a meteor.
There were none.
His mind wandered.
Was the mission really almost over? All they had to do was travel for a day to the Gatewayplex. Then they could use the Key to leave Jehannemid and go to Humusi.
How long would it take the higher-ups in the military to decide what to do about Kishar, Teucer, Ningsummunu, and the Unsighted? How long before Xerxes had to follow through with his promise to return on his own if he had to? What would Katayoun think if he did that? He hadnt talked to her about it, neither before he made his promise, nor after.
He thought about Gandash, and wondered if hed noticed the efforts Xerxes had been making to smooth things out between them. Ive been going along with all his decisions. Supporting him at every turn. He must have realized it.
Shortly before dawn, a shadow startled him. Looking up, he saw three flying Abhorrent soaring overhead. He leaned away from the tree trunk as he tracked them. They obviously hadnt sensed the presence of the mages, as they flew onward in the general direction of the mountains.
Then the sun rose, and he shinnied down the tree to wake Gandash, Katayoun, and Kashtiliash. They ate and continued on their way.
Their progress slowed even more. Worse terrain. More Abhorrent.
Morebat.
In each instance, they ended fights quickly and efficiently. They always wiped out the Abhorrent to thest monster, never letting a straggler escape. Not once did any of them get hurt badly enough to warrant spellcasting by Katayoun.
The mountains were getting closer. They were now distinctly visible on the horizon, and rising higher and higher.
More wolves fell on them as afternoon gave way to evening. The terrain was more in the favor of the High Seers though, and they ughtered the beasts with impunity. Except, as the fight wore down to the end, for the first time, one of the Abhorrent escaped. Two of therger spawn turned tail and ran. Kashtiliash and Xerxes, wrapped up inbat with a juvenile, couldnt give chase. Gandash was also fighting. Katayoun ran after the two spawn for a short distance, until Xerxes shouted for her to return.
They wrapped up the fight within a minute.
As Xerxes cleaned his de, he said, Is it really that bad that two of them got away?
Gandash looked in the direction the stray wolves had fled. I dont know. We havent heard the wolf-types talk, but that doesnt mean they cant.
If they tell one of the bigger juveniles about us Katayoun said, but didnt finish her sentence.
Kashtiliash resheathed his sword. So we keep moving.
Yes, Gandash said.
And they did. However, it soon became apparent that their fears had been confirmed. Abhorrent came at them from the north. Rat-type. They were only spawn, but they were numerous. Dozens upon dozens.
Before the High Seers could dispatch them, another pack of wolves appeared from the northwest.
Two flying Abhorrent dropped from above.
Flying leeches flew out of the trees.
The four High Seers stood in a square formation and destroyed wave after wave of the monsters. Katyoun fought with her short sword. Gandash used a spear.
Corpses piled around them.
The only upside was that no juveniles were present. The fighting turned from grinding violence into gritty desperation. The exhaustion Xerxes had felt beforepounded on itself. He didnt think he could keep swinging the longsword.
And then, the remaining spawn turned around and fled. In a matter of seconds, it went from a scene of chaos to one of stillness.
The four High Seers panted and looked around.
Xerxes let his sword tip rest against the ground, ck blood oozing off of it. What the hell happened?
Kashtiliashs sword was in a simr position. Fuck if I know.
Breathing heavily, Gandash said, We need to move again. The most likely reason a bunch of spawn would flee is
A crashing sound reached their ears from the west, followed by a faint tremor in the ground.
Xerxes turned to look in the direction of the sound, but didnt see anything. Is what? he said.
Gandash didnt respond.
Kashtiliash and Katayoun were looking in the same direction as Xerxes.
Is what? Xerxes repeated. Why would the spawn flee?
Another crashing sound echoed through the forest. Silence.
Then something smashed through the trees fifteen cubits away,nding hard on the ground and shaking it so violently Xerxes had to take a step to the side. Katayoun dropped to her knees. Broken branches, pebbles, and other debris rained down around them.
Fifteen cubits away was a pale-skinned humanoid Abhorrent, surrounded by a cloak made of countless spider-like legs. Shednded on one knee, but was already rising to both feet.
Another crash echoed out, and a second humanoid Abhorrent smashed through the trees andnded next to the first one. A third arrived half a secondter.
Grk bak losh, Mm-oth? the first one said. She grinned. Then she took a step toward them.
Chapter 96: Hard Decisions
Chapter 96: Hard Decisions
Gotta be fucking kidding me, Kashtiliash said. He held his sword in front of him, the tip resting on the ground, the steel obscured byyers of gore.
Behind Xerxes, Katayoun exhaled in something thatbined a whimper and a groan.
Kat, Gandash said, can you cast Slow Death?
I dont have enough mm, she replied.
Shit. Xerk, what about you?
Xerxes, holding his sword like Kashtiliash, looked down at hisponent pouches. He had nothing but the residue of stibnite talc, but a full pouch of crabnickel powder. Singr Lethality only. And Im almost out of mm. But I have the breakthrough pill. And Kash and I, we trained for fights like this. We have a special move.
Swordmasters Vengeance, Kashtiliash said.
The gigantic female Abhorrent took another step. The other two joined her.
Take the pill, Gandash said. And do the move. Well only have"
The lead Abhorrent lunged forward, sped her hands into a hammer fist, and tried to crush Gandash out of existence. He dodged to the side,nding on his side and skidding through the dirt as he barely avoided the blow. The monstrous womans hands crushed the earth where hed stood moments before.
Kash, there! Xerxes barked, pointing at a spot a few cubits away.
Kashtiliash threw his sword into the sheath on his back as he ran to the spot.
The female Abhorrent stood straight, snarling.
Xerxes, ignoring his protesting muscles and weariness, lifted his sword and sprinted forward. Kashtiliash cupped his hands, and Xerxes nted his foot. He jumped, and the bearded mage heaved upward, giving him added momentum.
Xerxes shot straight up, bringing his sword with him in an arcing sh.
The de ripped into the Abhorrent womans neck and sliced up through her jaw. The momentum, coupled with High Seer strength, ensured the de kept going, devastating her cheek bone, cleaving her eyeball, and shredding through her forehead. She shrieked demonically as the de flew out of the top of her skull, trailing ck blood and gray organic material.
She lurched backward, swatting at him with her massive hand. It connected,unching him to the side, where he mmed into the ground and slid across the earth, barely keeping hold of his sword the entire time.
The giant Abhorrent spat words in hernguage as she stumbled to the left, reaching up to the massive wound going from her neck to the top of her head.
She took a step forward and waved her free hand. Her fingers became dozens upon dozens of white tentacles that shot toward Xerxes. That was when Kashtiliash shed the tendon above her heel. The tentacles faltered as the giant woman dropped to a knee. She half-fell forward, just managing to use both palms to keep herself upright.
Ribs aching, Xerxes got to his feet just in time to lurch out of the path of another stream of white tentacles from one of the other Abhorrent. They curved around in midair and swept toward him again. He barely was able to swing his sword out awkwardly to sever about half of them. The unsevered portions backed away.
A loud thump was apanied by a st of dust as the first Abhorrent copsed on her face and twitched.
And thats Swordmasters Vengeance, he growled. But there were still two to deal with, and he felt weaker than ever. Jamming his hand into an interior pocket, he grabbed the breakthrough pill, put it between his teeth, and bit down. Instantly, a tsunami of mm coursed into his chambers of energy.
The Abhorrent closest to him, whose tentacr fingers he had just severed, stepped toward him. More white strands shot through the air. He swung wildly while jumping to the side. Most missed, but not all. One strand stabbed into his abdomen. Another grabbed his ankle. He felt himself being dragged across the ground.
At first, he wondered how he would form a third chamber of energy in the middle of the fight. Then he realized the pill was doing it for him. Not only was a massive current of mm surging into the depths of his being, but also, that mm was automatically performing a series of Flushes, while simultaneously building the new chamber walls.
Fifteen Flushes left.
He just had to survive long enough for the effects to y out. His back scraped on the ground as the Abhorrent woman pulled him toward her.
Katayoun appeared, shing him free with her short sword.
Get back, Kat, he growled, lurching up onto a knee.
His eyes darted to the other side of the clearing, where Kashtiliashs fists burned white as heunched wild blows at the other Abhorrent. Gandash had cast a spell. Two of the wolf-type Abhorrent were harrying the monstrous females ankles.
Twelve Flushes left.
He shifted attention to the one in front of him. Was this a stage three juvenile? Or four. Regardless, it was only a few weeks ago that he, Kashtiliash, and Teucer had struggled to take one down when working together. How could he possibly deal with one by himself?
One thing seemed clear: the brain was a good target. To get within range, though, he would have to get her head down lower.
Feet and ankles.
Trying to summon strength, he gripped his sword with both hands, ran forward, and swung at one of her ankles.
She lifted her foot, and his sword hit nothing. What was more, the blow threw him off bnce, and he nearly fell.
Ten Flushes.
White strands flew through the air. But not toward him. Toward Kat.
He tried to fling his sword up to sever them, but it was too heavy.
Several of the strands stabbed into Katayoun.
Eight Flushes.
She screamed as the strands pierced her abdomen, thigh, and neck. He screamed too. The other strands wrapped around her. The Abhorrent sent her flying through the air until she crashed into a nearby tree.
Xerxes scream turned into a blistering shout as he shed at the Abhorrent woman again.
Five Flushes.
This time, his sword hit the mark. It hit her thigh, biting into bone briefly before she kicked it away. The movement of her leg wrenched the sword from his grasp, and it twirled off to the side.
In his peripheral vision, he saw Katayoun lying motionless at the base of the tree. But he couldnt go to her.
On the other side of the battle, the Abhorrent woman had Kashtiliash in both hands. She yanked at his right arm above the elbow. He screamed. She ripped it off.
Two Flushes.
Xerxes wasnt able to see what happened to Kashtiliash after that, as the monster he faced aimed another kick at him. He dodged, but the foot still clipped him, sending him spinning in the air tond hard on his hip. More painnced through him.
One Flush.
A handtched onto his arm. Another hand grabbed his opposing thigh. His stomach lurched as the monster pulled him up into the air. A momentter, he found himself face-to-face with the creature.
He could feel that his third chamber hadpletely formed. He was a Mystic now! Then, just as when hed experienced his High Seer breakthrough, mm flowed into the chambers like a ck hole. He felt his exhaustion waning slightly, and scattered bits of strength building up. It wasnt going to turn him into a god, but it would let him fight for a bit longer.
The Abhorrents eyes were pitch ck, her lips red, and her teeth like an animals.
Plk mm-oth, she said. A long tongue emerged as she licked her lips. Then she stopped talking and looked down at his midriff. She sensed the dramatic flow of mm, as her eyes widened.
He grinned. Yeah.
Pinching the fingers of his free hand into a point, he jabbed them toward her eye. The fingers pierced inside, and before she could react, he grabbed her eye socket. ck blood oozed out onto his fingers. She howled and released his thigh to reach her hand toward her face.
Pulling on her eye socket to get her face closer to him, he kicked out, and the toe of his boot hit her temple. He kicked again, while also yanking her head back and forth. She threw him.
He tumbled head over heels beforending t on his back. It hurt, but his strength continued to build. He stood.
The now one-eyed Abhorrent woman threw her head back and roared.
Spying his sword to the side, he grabbed it. shed it at her knee. Severed the leg.
She toppled, and he hacked at her neck. Once. Twice. Three times. Five.
Her head lolled forward, ck blood spurting out from the stump. He kicked the body to the left.
There was only one left. Her lips curled into a sneer as she threw both hands out in front of her. Dozens and dozens of tentacles shot through the air.
Xerxes knew he couldnt avoid them. He couldnt cut them away. Not all of them.
In two seconds, he would be stabbed through.
He threw his sword. There was no artistry to it. No technique. He just hurled the thing.
Even as the first white tentacr strands stabbed into him, the giant de whipped end over end toward the female Abhorrent. Backed by the strength of a Mystic, it flew faster than anything an ordinary human could track with the naked eye.
More tentacles stabbed into him. His abdomen. His neck. His thighs. It didnt hurt, but he knew that damage was being done.
The longsword stabbed into the Abhorrents open mouth, and the momentum of its spin caused the de to cut down, sending cold steel deep into her neck and torso. The white tentacles went ck.
The Abhorrent woman stood there for a long moment, then dropped to her knees. Fell on her face.
Xerxes sagged, gasping for breath. Hed done it. Somehow, hed done it.
Then a crashing sound reached his ears. Followed by another. He swiveled his head to the left.
Two more gigantic Abhorrent women had appeared. More crashing sounds. There were five total.
He whimpered. His sword was embedded in the corpse several cubits away. His arms were numb. Pain throbbed everywhere. Mm was still flowing into his three chambers of energy, but how could he possibly keep fighting?
He took a step toward the corpse and his sword. That one step took so much effort he didnt think he could take another. But he had to try. He lifted his foot. The lead Abhorrent jumped, flew through the air, and mmed into the ground between him and his weapon. Sheughed. He lowered his foot without taking a step. It was over.
Then a line appeared on her neck. A ck line that went from one side to the other. A second passed, and the head tipped to the side and fell off the shoulders. ck blood fountained out of the stump. The massive Abhorrent tilted, then copsed forward. The head tumbled across the ground like a ball, hitting his leg. He fell to the ground.
It all happened so fast he wasnt sure what was going on. And he was too tired to get back up. He saw a figure with a longsword. Walking toward the other Abhorrent. He had broad shoulders.
The figure attacked one of the Abhorrent with a Sunrise strike, and despite the sweat in Xerxes eyes and the pain that thrummed through him with such viciousness he wanted to cry, he could tell that this persons form was excellent. He studied the Epitome, and was very skilled. What was more, he had a fancy back sheath.
Who was it?
The figure attacked, dodged a round of tentacles, then lunged in for a stab.
The Abhorrent woman bellowed and unleashed a frenzied flurry of attacks with dozens of tentacr strands.
The swordsman jumped back, sheathed his sword, then reached to aponent pouch. He traced a rune, and mm surged with force that surpassed anything Xerxes had seen from a High Seer. Darkness radiated from the swordsmans hand as he jumped forward and pped the Abhorrent.
Purattu, Xerxes muttered. He struggled to get to his feet.
Not pausing for a moment, Purattu cast the same spell again. Darkness again erupted from his hand as he cast Instant Death.
In Xerxes muddled state, it was impossible to recall how much life force the spell would drain, or how the effects would stack.
Xerxes closed his eyes in the hopes of gathering some energy. He heard fighting. The sound of Abhorrent dying.
He sat up and opened his eyes. Purattu obviously had the fight under control.
Katayoun.
Struggling to his feet, he limped toward Katayoun, who was still motionless beneath the tree.
You have to be alive, Kat. You cant be dead from an attack like that.
Kneeling next to her, he leaned down and tried to spot signs that she was breathing. He saw movement. He reached out and put his finger to her neck. It took a moment to find the right spot, but he detected a pulse.
A bubbling groan reached his ears, and he looked over his shoulder to see that the final Abhorrent had fallen t on her back. Purattu was on her chest, shoving his sword into her torso. When the woman reached up to grab him, he gave the sword a quick twist, then jumped away.
Purattu! Xerxes yelled. Or at least he tried to yell. His voice felt hoarse and weak.
The stocky mage hurried over. Sorry I didnte sooner. Took a bit of fighting to get clear of the Gateway. Whats the situation?
Kat got stabbed and thrown. But shes breathing. Can you help her?
Purattu knelt next to Katayoun. He felt her pulse, tilted her eyelids up, and quickly checked to see if she had any other injuries. Shes probably fine, but we dont have time to wait for her to wake up.
Now that he was close up, Xerxes noted that Purattu had threeponent pouches at his belt. Reaching into one of them, the stocky mage pulled out some green sand and traced a rune.
Minor Restoration, he said. He touched Katayoun, and healing mm flowed through her.
She shuddered, then opened her eyes. What?
Youre fine, Kat, Purattu said. Your other friends got it much worse, though. Gandash is unconscious over there. I dont see any wounds, so well get to himst. Kashtiliash, though. He stood and walked toward the bearded mage.
Xerxes helped Katayoun to her feet. Together, they walked over to where Purattu was examining Kashtiliash.
Is he? Xerxes asked.
Dead? Purattu said. No, you can see him breathing. But this is a damn horrific wound.
The sight of the bearded mages severed arm off to the side made Xerxes feel ill.
Purattu examined Kashtiliash for about thirty seconds. Im going to cast Major Restoration, he said. Theponent cost is more than double that of Minor Restoration. And it takes quadruple the mm. But without it, Im not sure hell pull through. Give me his arm.
Katayoun, the closest to the severed arm, gingerly picked it up and handed it to Purattu.
Prepare to watch some real magic,dies and gentleman. Purattu ced the arm next to the gaping hole in Kashtiliashs torso, so that the flesh touched.
Then he loosened anotherponent pouch and took out an aqua-colored sand. When he traced the rune, it was obviously much moreplicated than Btu Isten. As the mm infused Kashtiliash, flesh and muscle came alive, reaching out to grab the arm. Squelching and cracking sounds caused Katayoun to look away. Xerxes, fascinated, watched as the spell reattached Kashtiliashs arm to his body.
About a minuteter, a groan escaped Kashtiliashs lips.
Youre alive, Kash, Purattu said. Can you hear me?
Kashtiliash murmured something indistinguishable.
Purattu put his hand behind Kashtiliashs neck and lifted him up. The bearded mages eyes opened. What the hell?
Purattu grinned. I wish Ide sooner. But it looks like I still made it in time. Good thing I found it suspicious that a whole group of those fuckers just up and started running in this direction. Wheres everyone else?
Almost a hundred leagues that way. Gandash pointed to the east.
I see. Purattu stood, then helped Kashtiliash to his feet. In that case, we have some decisions to make. Some hard decisions.
----
Note: "Swordmasters Vengeance" seeminglyes out of nowhere. In the edited Beta version, I went back and had the Swordmasters invent this move starting early in the "academy" arc. They practiced it a lot, but this is the first time they ever used it inbat. This is one of many changes made to the Beta version that didn''t make it into my original draft.
Chapter 97: An Expensive Device
Chapter 97: An Expensive Device
Hard decisions? Gandash asked.
You have the Gateway Key, right? Purattu asked.
We do.
Good. Purattu looked around at the carnage and wrinkled his nose. Lets find a less disgusting ce to talk.
He led them further west, to where a small waterfall formed a churning pond near some boulders.
This is as good a ce as any. Kneeling, he washed the blood from his hands and face. The other mages did the same.
Xerxes relished the feeling of the cool water on his skin.
Theres a lot to exin, and time is limited, Purattu said. Archon Shabadras is dead.
What? Gandash blurted.
Are you serious? Katayoun said.
Theres no way, Xerxes added.
Purattu looked at them one by one. Hes either dead, or hes a traitor. General Kamaru-Ayyabu as well, though none of you knew him. That fact alone has the Mage Parliament and the militarypletely on edge. Forgetting all of the countless ramifications this could have, the salient issue for us is that Shabadras and Kamaru-Ayyabu were the leaders of the Gateway Key program. Theyre the ones who ordered the mission to hide the Key here. And now theyre dead.
Because of that, I want to take the Key away from here. The situation is too vtile on Sin-Amuhhu. He extended his hand. Give it to me.
Xerxes had the key, but instead of simply pulling it out, he nced at Gandash.
His friend seemed to be standing very stiffly.
Who ordered the mission? Gandash asked. Who said to take the Key away?
The stocky mage pulled his hand back and crossed his arms. Its not an official mission. Like I said, the people who actually know about the Key are dead. Or missing. Nobody in the military leadership ispletely aware of all the details. Thats why I want to get the Key to somewhere safe.
Gandash stood in ce looking back at him.
Purattus eyes shifted between the four other mages. Where. Is. The Key?
We hid it, Gandash said.
Purattus eyes narrowed. You did what?
Before that fight with the big Abhorrent. We hid the key just in case we all died.
Purattu stood. Then tell me where it is.
Not unless you promise us something.
The stocky mages eyes zed. Promise you something? Like what?
Help us go get the rest of ck Jackal Company. Theyre in a cavework in the mountains to the east. They
Are you fucking kidding me? Purattu exploded. This is being overrun by Abhorrent, and theres a damned Gateway Key here! If the monsters get the Key, they can run rampant throughout the Great Reef. Throughout the damned empire! And you want to waste time saving a few Unsighted soldiers? Theyre conditioned to die for the empire! They wont give a shit if you save them!
There are mages there, too, Gandash said. I promised not to abandon them. If you want the Key, then help us get them.
I hereby order you to give me the Key, Purattu said. I know youre a by-the-book officer, Gandash, so dont you dare try to refuse a direct order.
Gandashughed. Youre not in the Sin-Amuhhu Combined Armed Forces. You cant order me to do anything. Whats more, you already said your mission isnt sanctioned. If anything, I should refuse to give you the Key under any circumstances.
Purattu made a spitting sound. He looked at Xerxes. What about you, Xerk? Dont tell me youre going to side with Gandash. Tell me where the Key is.
Xerxes peripheral vision picked up Gandash looking in his direction. Xerxes considered the situation briefly. Im with Gandy, he said. I made the same promise. Im not going to abandon ck Jackal Company to death.
Jaw tightening, Purattu said, Kash? Kat? What about you two.
If you want the Key, then you have to help us, Katayoun said.
Xerxes looked at Kashtiliash. The bearded mage had always erred on the side of practicality. All he had to do was tell Purattu that Xerxes had the Key, and their gamble would fail.
Kashtiliash rubbed his shoulder. We need help, Purattu. Are you really going to refuse?
Purattus eyes zed hotter. His eyes widened. And then he rxed. Sighed. Heughed. Youre a bunch of Monad-damned motherfuckers, did you know that? Fine. I agree to your request. Ill save your friends, you give me the Gateway Key.
Gandash took a step toward him and extended his hand. Deal.
They shook hands.
Shaking his head, Purattu said, I still cant believe Im doing this. I swear if you get me killed. He sat back down. Lucky for the four of you, Im rich. Stinking rich. And I didnt hold anything back in preparing for this mission. For all I know, I might not be going back to Sin-Amuhhu for a long time. Among the many toys I have with me is a very, very expensive device. A limited-use spell formation thats essentially a miniature Gateway. If youre dead set on saving your people, we can use it to get them from their hiding ce to the Gatewayplex.
He reached for a pack strapped around his waist and pulled out two objects. One was a simple silver ring, the other was a stone disc.
The ring is the entrance. The disc is where you step out. The first step is to put the disc in ce. If you want to do this, then heres how itll happen. Youll need to go the rest of the way up the mountain and put the disc in ce. Ill take the ring and run to the east. I can cover the distance in a matter of hours.
Thends are full of Abhorrent, Xerxes said.
Thats fine. Like I said, I brought lots of toys I can use to stay safe. Now, let me show you how to use this thing. He went on to exin how to send the flows of mm into the object to activate it.
Afterward, Gandash put the disc into his traveling pack.
I have a question, Purattu, Xerxes said.
Yeah?
When you say youre not going back to Sin-Amuhhu, and that youre taking the Gateway Key somewhere else, what do you mean?
I dont want to reveal the details except to those whoe with me. The less who know, the better.
Those who go with you? Katayoun asked. Who do you mean?
Purattu grinned again. I want at least one or two High Seers on my side. I have things to do away from Jehannemid. ces to investigate. People to talk to. Any of you feel likeing along? Gandash is right that I dont have the authority to order him around. But I do have some paperwork originally drafted by Shabadras and signed by Kamaru-Ayyabu. It allows me to recruit anyone under the Mystic level, overriding their existing orders for the sake of the Gateway Key mission. In other words, if any of you want to join me, youre wee toe along.
Xerxes was so taken aback he didnt say a thing.
It seemed Gandash, Katayoun, and Kashtiliash were all simrly surprised.
Purattu, noting their expressions, said, You dont have to decide right now. Get up the mountain to the Gatewayplex. Stay away from the road and you shouldnt have to worry about Abhorrent. And incidentally, dont go to theplex itself. Theres an opening in the trees about a quarter league to the southeast of the ce, a clearing or something that will fit all your people. Ill bring them through, thene along myself. Ill help you clear theplex and activate it with the Key.
The stocky mage reached down to tighten one of the straps on his longsword sheath.
If you move quickly, Purattu said, you can get in ce well before I reach your people.
Hold on, Xerxes said. If you dont use the Gateway, how will you get off Jehannemid?
Theres a secret few people are aware of. But its also on the list of things Ill only exin to those whoe with me. The fewer people that know, the better.
Where will you go, exactly? Katayoun asked.
Many ces. And those of you whoe with me will get a say in the path we take. If you have somewhere you want to go, Im sure we can work it into the itinerary. Purattu started tying his sleeves down in the mannermonly used for high-speed running. Theres no use sitting around chatting. Lets get this thing done. Tell me where to find your people.
Purattu provided all four of them with pills that provided minor healing and a boost in energy. Ten minutester, they parted ways. Purattu disappeared into the trees within seconds, leaving the four High Seers alone.
Not looking at anyone, and keeping his head bowed, Gandash said, Thanks.
There was no need to question what he referred to.
No need for that, Xerxes said.
Yeah, Katayoun added.
Gandash nodded. Well, I know were all exhausted, but the end is in sight. We should get up the mountain.
Despite staying off the road, they made good time. It only took two hours to get close to the Gateway. There were no further Abhorrent encounters. The de Purattu had mentioned, located about a quarter-league from theplex, was empty.
After scouting the perimeter to ensure there were no enemies lurking about, they set up the stone disc in the middle of the ce, then picked a ce to wait.
Time seemed to move in slow motion as the sun crawled down past the treeline, and afternoon gave way to evening. Not wanting to risk attracting attention with a fire, they ate hard bread and water.
I guess we have a choice to make, Gandash said. He looked around the group. I, for one, am tired of secret missions. And I dont want to risk my career just on Purattus word. Its not that I distrust him. Just.
We get it, Xerxes said. When he thought about the situation, he had a hard time deciding what he wanted to do. The idea of working side-by-side with Purattu, a High Mystic and an expert in the Epitome, was attractive. Surely it would be better than trudging through the mud with Abhorrent lurking around every corner, which seemed the future of ck Jackal in the face of a massive invasion.
Besides, it sounded like Purattu had some sort of n. Maybe even a way to deal with the Abhorrent invasion that the mages on Sin-Amuhhu hadnt considered. And the truth was that Xerxes had long abandoned any aspirations of rising through the ranks in the military.
That said, there were other considerations. His friendship with Gandash. His rtionship with Katayoun. His family and friends on Mannemid.
What about you, Kash? Gandash asked. Are you thinking of taking up Purattus offer?
Kashtiliash swallowed some bread and washed it down with water. Nope. Im done taking risks. I want my pay from the military. And a promotion. You think thatll happen?
Gandash didnt hesitate. Yes. After the hell we went through, youll get an officermission for sure. As for me its harder to say.
Kashtiliash nodded. Thats what I was thinking. Ill go through the Gateway.
Xerxes felt a bit of heaviness tugging his heart down. He breathed in and out. Kat? What are you thinking?
I want to go with Purattu, she said. I have to go with him. Gandy, I think you did great as the captain. You got us through the mission as apany, and Im sure theyll give you that promotion, and probably a medal too. I know were on the threshold of the Gateway. But I never wanted to be in the military to begin with. I want to see my family. And make sure theyre safe. So Ill go with Purattu. Xerk, will youe with me?
His heart sank further. So, it came down to this.
He looked at Gandash, but his childhood friend was staring at the tree line. Gandash looked calm and peaceful, but at the same time, haggard. It had been many days since Xerxes realized his friend had changed. Grown. The effect was even more pronounced now.
Xerxes looked at Kashtiliash. The bearded mage looked back at him and nodded slightly.
Ill go with you, Kat, Xerxes said. I think that in a lot of situations, a couple of mages working on their own have a better chance of making a difference than they would working with an army. Not that Im minimizing the role of the Unsighted. Just.
We know what you mean, Kashtiliash said. I guess this means the Humusi Swordmasters are going to disband.
No, Xerxes replied without even thinking about it. Well always be Swordmasters. Just taking different paths. And when we meet again, well be stronger and better than before.
Kashtiliash grinned. All right.
Gandash, still looking at the trees, somehow appeared to be sitting much more stiff than before. But before Xerxes could say anything else, the stone disc in the middle of the clearing red with light, and Teucer stepped out.
For an hour, the surviving members of ck Jackal appeared in the clearing. Thest toe through the opening was Purattu. He immediately knelt and fiddled with the disc. There was a final burst of light, whereupon the ring appeared atop the disc. Then the light faded.
Purattu approached. Looking at the faces of Gandash, Xerxes, Kashtiliash, and Katayoun, he said, You all look like you just ate a bug. I guess that means you made a decision?
Yes, Gandash said. Xerk and Kat will go with you. Ill take ck Jackal through the Gateway.
Excellent. In that case, why dont you form ranks and well march to theplex. I wiped out the Abhorrent that were camping out there, but I bet more have reced them. Well need to do a bit of fighting.
Gandash called out his orders, and ck Jackal formed into ranks.
With Purattu in the lead, they marched toward the Gatewayplex.
Chapter 98: Brilliant Light
Chapter 98: Brilliant Light
ck Jackal Company destroyed the Abhorrent that had retaken the Gatewayplex with no casualties. Purattu led the way to the tform and used the Gateway Key to force a tunnel open to Humusi above. Purattu exined that Xerxes and Katayoun would be staying behind with him to help with a confidential task. No one asked any questions. They were all obviously relieved to be leaving.
Ningsummunu offered to be the first go through, not only to exin the iing arrival of dozens of soldiers and apanying mages, but also to send an urgent message ahead to Sin-Amuhhu.
After a group of Unsighted followed Ningsummunu, it was Kishars turn to leave. She had a tearful parting with Katayoun, then disappeared.
More troops went through. Then came Teucer, who embraced Xerxes, then stood in front of him with hands on both his shoulders. See you again soon, right?
Yeah, Xerxes said. Say hi to Mystic Rabya. And keep practicing. I expect you to give me a run for my money next time we spar.
You got it.
Teucer left.
More troops went through. Some, he knew. Stratos. Tustimant. Mauwa. They offered sincere salutes that he returned with full formality.
Kashtiliash stopped in front of Xerxes. He had his sword in his hand. To us, he said.
He lifted the sword in a salute.
Xerxes returned the salute.
Kashtiliash lowered his sword, flipped it around, and sheathed it at his back. Take care, Xerk. I want to hear good stories next time we meet.
Same.
Kashtiliash left, and more troops followed. Finally, Gandash prepared to go in. He bowed deeply to Katayoun and gave a crisp salute to Purattu.
Then he was in front of Xerxes.
Good luck, Xerk, he said. I hope you do a lot of good out there.
Yeah, Gandy. So are we you know?
Gandashs brow furrowed slightly. Are we what?
Xerxes looked awkwardly at Katayoun and Purattu, who were standing only a few cubits away.
Seeing his expression, Katayoun grabbed Purattu by the arm and pulled him out of the room.
The light of the Gateway danced as Xerxes looked back at Gandash, then lowered his gaze. Friends, he said. Are we still friends?
Oh. A long moment passed. Xerxes, everything I said before it still stands. Were different people now. Moving in different directions in life. I respect that you had difficult decisions to make, and you you did what you had to do. It was the same with me. I dont have any hard feelings. But at the same time, I realize we need to go in different directions.
A tight, piercing sensationnced through Xerxess chest. He ignored it. I understand.
Gandash took a step forward and extended his hand. No hard feelings?
A flickering fire burned inside of him. He quashed it, reached out, and took Gandashs hand. Of course not.
Gandash shook his hand firmly, then stepped into the Gateway.
Xerxes stood looking at the shimmering light for a while, then stepped around to the control station and severed the connection. Then he looked once more at the empty portal, and thought about everything. Tears welled up, but he brushed them away. Then heposed himself and walked out into the hallway beyond.
Purattu was leaning against one wall, with Katayoun opposite him. They had been talking, but once he appeared, they stopped and looked over.
Theyre gone, Xerxes said.
Purattu stepped away from the wall. Noplications?
No.
Good. Now, lets get out of here and to a safer ce. Thats where Ill exin what were doing next.
**
Purattu set a rapid pace, pushing the two mages hard, but not too hard. They sped south through the mountains into the gathering darkness, eventually winding down into a tree-choked valley that was filled half with ake. Nestled in amongst the trees on the shore of theke was a cabin that Xerxes didnt realize existed until Purattu opened the front door.
How did you know about this ce? Katayoun asked.
Purattu stepped across the small room and produced a device that sparked a me. He lit two candles on the mantle of the firece that took up half the wall opposite the door.
I did a lot of research before my initial mission. He closed the device. Then he looked at Xerxes, who was just stepping in the door. Grab some wood from outside, will you? Its scattered everywhere.
The area outside the cabin was dark, but he could still make out a pile of wood beneath the eaves. It seemed dry despite all the recent rain, so he picked up a few pieces.
Were building a fire? Xerxes asked. Is that safe?
Should be, Purattu said. I havent heard anything to indicate Abhorrent are drawn to smoke.
As Purattu built a fire, Katayoun used a broom from the corner to sweep the cabin, while Xerxes used a spare stick to remove cobwebs.
A few minutester, Purattu produced a small tin, into which he put some lentils and water. He put it over the fire.
There are Gateways other than the ones you know about, he said. They usually call them obsolete. Or dysfunctional. You see, the starsea isnt a static thing, like a statue. Its constantly moving. New starisles arent just discovered. Theyre born.
Of course, it all happens over very long periods of time. Long even for the Anunnaki. But the point is that, as the geography of the starsea changes over time, the Gateways need to be adjusted. In the starisles subsidiary to Ku-Aya, theres a wholework of Gateways that stopped working some ten or fifteen thousand years ago.
They were disabled, and new Gateways were built. The same ones that exist today. But the old ones are still around, if you know where to look. And the thing is, its not like the oldwork just ceased to function. Rather, the connection between the different nodes grew more unstable and weak. But they still work. Especially if you have the power of a Gateway Key to operate them. To be clear, I didnt know about this until recently.
In any case, thats what were going to do. Well travel to the obsolete Gatewayplex here on Jehannemid, and use it to disappear along with the Key. After that, Im going to get to the bottom of this whole invasion thing.
Xerxes felt like the new information should bbergast him. But given everything that had happened, he was underwhelmed.
Okay, he said.
Purattu looked at him with eyebrows raised. Thats it? I tell you that the very fabric of reality is different than you understood, and your only response is okay?
Katayoun shifted against Xerxes. Sorry, Purattu. I guess its just it seems very academic. Especially after everything that happened.
I see. Purattu edged back to the fire and stirred the lentils. That makes sense. I imagine it wasnt easy losing so many fellow mages and soldiers.
It wasnt, Xerxes said, and he realized the words came out sounding more gruff than he intended. I guess thats just war.
I guess so.
Shortly thereafter, they had some lentils, and then slept on bedrolls.
The next day, they woke early and moved south. Purattu provided them with special clothing and footwear designed for long-distance, high-speed running. He also taught them a few tricks of breathing and stance, designed to make running more efficient.
Then he set a speed that made anything Gandash had asked of ck Jackal seem like a walk in the park.
They ran in extreme bursts of speed, followed by short cooldowns and rest periods. Using this method, they left the mountains behind them by the evening of the next day. Because of the focus on running, Xerxes hadnt been checking the skies. But as the sun set, after purchasing foodstuffs from a town and then setting up a fire by a riverside, he noticed the falling stars.
This time, for the first time on Jehannemid, they fell from north to south.
What does it mean? Katayoun asked.
I dont want to specte too deeply, Purattu replied, but its probably because of us. Maybe ck Jackals message reached Sin-Amuhhu already, and word got to the traitors.
What if it has nothing to do with us? Xerxes said. What if they just want to take over Jehannemid? Destroy all the people. Or eat them. Isnt that what they did in the Nightmare Cove?
Purattu frowned. I guess its possible. And if thats whats happening, we need to get out of this starisle as soon as possible.
But what about all the people here? Katayoun asked.
You think the three of us can save them? Purattu asked.
Neither Katayoun nor Xerxes provided an answer.
Can the two of you survive on four hours of sleep?
Xerxes shared a nce with Katayoun.
I think so, she said. Do you have any more of those energy pills?
I do, but you cant take too many. Another round tomorrow will be fine, though. Ill wake you in the morning.
True to his word, Purattu started them out before the sun rose. Encountering no Abhorrent, they stuck to roads. They made excellent progress.
More meteors fell throughout the day.
The night went smoothly, but they ran into some Abhorrent the following day. And from there, the journey became harder. Meteors fell endlessly, and more and more Abhorrent filled thends through which they traveled.
The spawn, and even the low-level juveniles, were easily dispatched. Xerxes taught the Swordmasters Vengeance to Purattu, who was suitably impressed, but had suggestions to improve it. Using the improved version, they took downrge juveniles with ease.
Toward the end of a week of travel, stage four and five juveniles became moremon.
The endless running and fighting weighed on Xerxes. And the further they got away from the Gatewayplex in the mountains, the more he thought about what he was leaving behind.
Temperatures got hotter, and the air, more humid. Eventually, they reached a city with arge harbor and thick walls. It was clear that the ce had suffered some Abhorrent attacks, but not enough to destroy the city. Yet.
It was remarkably easy for Purattu to hire a boat. After all, he had a lot of money. That reminded Xerxes of the loan he still needed to pay back. Purattu brushed off mention of the outstanding debt, saying that it didnt matter anymore. But Xerxes wasnt going to forget it. Hed pay back the loan one day.
Once they were out on the open water, the Abhorrent werent a problem. Purattu remarked that water-dwelling Abhorrent were known to exist, but apparently hadnt been part of the invasion force.
After three days of sailing, they reached a chain of inds. The captain was surprised when Purattu asked him to drop them off and return to the city. But heplied without asking any questions.
Located in the depths of the ind was a crumbling facility that Xerxes would never have guessed to be a Gatewayplex. It was in the middle of the maze of weathered stone walls and pathways, inside a cave. The facility was in such ruins that, even with his knowledge of Gateways, he would never have guessed its true nature.
And here we are, Purattu said. He walked to the far end of the tform, to where a pile of vine-covered stone rose slightly above everything else. Im guessing this is the control station.
Are you sure its functional? Katayoun asked, squatting and plucking a flower from a crack in the stone.
Yes, Purattu replied, producing the Gateway Key. Come over here.
Katayoun put the flower behind her ear as she and Xerxes joined Purattu at the control station.
Purattu used mage touch to clear the vines and dirt from the rubble. As he did, Xerxes realized that the stocky mage was right: it was a control station.
A momentter, Purattu inserted the Key into what had once been a dirt-filled hole.
The ancient Gateway trembled, and mm surged within it.
Purattu grinned. Were in business. Based on what I can sense, this Gateway can open seven unique tunnels downward, four parallel, and one upward.
Wait, Xerxes said. Parallel?
Purattu nodded. To other Stricken starisles. You want to go to see your family, we can probably make it happen.
We want to, Katayoun said firmly.
Then we will. He did some things with mage touch. The downside is that I can sense the passageways, just not where they go to. So it might take some experimentation to reach a specific intended destination. But I promise you, well get there. With this Gateway Key, were more free than you can imagine.
Brilliant light illuminated the area as he opened a passageway. Then he pulled the Key out of the control station. Itll remain open for two minutes. Lets go.
Not waiting for them, he strode across the open space and stepped into the Gateway, leaving Katayoun and Xerxes alone.
You sure about this? Xerxes asked.
At this point, she replied, what else are we going to do? Run back to the other one?
He smiled, leaned forward, and kissed her. She kissed him back.
Lets go together.
She nodded.
Holding hands, they walked into the brilliant light.
The End of Immanent Ascension Book 1
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