Glossing...
Glossing...
341 quotes (341 spoken, 0 mentions)
“You are blushing.”
“Yes, but I have my badge on. You have not brought yours. Again. For the eighth day in a row. Therefore, I was the most logical choice to—”
“Good job not scaring her.”
“Good evening.”
“I will accept the pasta and water as well. But may I inquire if you have any more meat-based dishes? Corusdeer, perhaps?”
“A pity.”
“You said it poorly. I am merely rephrasing your words for the benefit of all.”
“Well, to begin with, may we inquire where you come from?”
“To put it succinctly: we saw the fire and decided to investigate.”
“Your hurtful remarks are unnecessary. Besides which, I believe we are getting off track. We are in the presence of a member of the general public, remember.”
“Not if they did not cause it. Intriguing. Was it a magical duel, perhaps? Some high-level spellcasting?”
“Do you mean to say you found a Dragon? Somewhere around this area? And you—survived the encounter. Unharmed?”
“Our pardons. We have not introduced ourselves. Allow me to correct this mistake. I am Klbkch, Senior Guardsman in the employ of the City of Liscor. This is my partner, also a Senior Guardsman.”
“Razorbeaks. Go on, Miss.”
“Indeed. We would not violate our duty as guardsmen.”
“Indeed. And I must apologize again, but our true intent in coming here was to ascertain the danger posed here.”
“Actually, the plague symptoms manifested themselves as—”
“And not oozing.”
“Indeed. There is no law against occupying this area.”
“I will have another as well.”
“That would be a preservation spell. It is quite common among higher-class establishments.”
“That is unusual. I was under the impression levels worked uniformly across all species. However, I too understand the issues of communicating leveling and the system of classes. Even so, it is odd to think there is a nation that does not teach it in some way. Unless you are referring to a cultural difference in classes?”
“Indeed. It is part of our shared past. Once, of course, all races fought with tooth and claw and magic, but then they divided. Those who decided to forsake their natures and pursue a different truth received the gift of leveling, while those creatures who stayed true to their nature kept the might of their natures instead. According to historical records, at least. It is the subject of some studies, but that is the consensus.”
“I believe it was my turn to do that. Apologize to the Human for your rudeness.”
“Nice rocks to laze about upon while we should be performing our duties.”
“Only a few differences, but the animosity between their cultures is—”
“I am sure it is.”
“Please, I mean no harm. But your hand. May I see it?”
“Please, it was nothing. That was merely a low-grade healing potion of no great worth. Let us call it payment for the meal. Unless, of course, you object?”
“There is a fish in the rivers near here. It secretes a mucus that damages the area it touches. Such as in this case. I have seen several similar afflictions as a guardsman.”
“It is not an infection.”
“Please, do not be alarmed. This is treatable. Allow me.”
“Apologies. It is unwise to hug those with exoskeletons. Please, are you hurt?”
“Please, believe me. It will heal you.”
“Yeah. Um, yeah.”
“This is a low-grade healing potion. If you pour it over your injury, it should heal your affliction.”
“We are still on duty, if you recall. The Captain will be expecting a report. If we do return, we will have more time to socialize.”
“I will accept gladly. But for now I am full, and I believe it is time to be going. We would not wish to intrude upon your hospitality for too long.”
“Are you alright?”
“I am sure you would prefer that. But we are being paid to work, not to enjoy ourselves. Moreover, you are eating all of this Human’s dinner.”
“Is she female? I could not tell with complete accuracy. She sounded so, but I have met few Humans in social settings.”
“That is what I heard some small Humans saying once. But she’s female. And young, correct?”
“Do you believe she is a lawbreaker or fearful for her life?”
“It was almost certainly safe as I and Watch Captain Zevara assured you repeatedly, Relc. Besides, that young woman’s presence is proof enough. She would be dead within the day if the disease were still present.”
“You are correct in at least one definition of the word. But speculation is pointless in any case. We investigated the smoke, and now we can make our report. She is not breaking the law since the inn was abandoned nearly ten years ago.”
“It seems more likely that she was hallucinating. However…she may have run into a fire-breathing salamander. I cannot imagine she would survive an encounter with a real Dragon. Armies would not.”
“…Indeed.”
“She was not lying, at least not intentionally. But it is possible she was mistaken.”
“Would you have had me tell her the true value?”
“…Perhaps.”
“So, shall we return tomorrow?”
“We may be able to fit checking in there as part of our duties if we convince the Captain it is necessary.”
“I did not believe a lesser one would be worth the risk. I shall make do with a replacement, and I will deduct the cost from my pay. Besides which, it was used to protect a civilian.”
“You know fully well that I have no levels in any class of the kind. I was merely being kind.”
“Mm. It’s not very interesting. They are very fleshy.”
“She was quite interesting in any case. It was pleasant talking to her.”
“I have no sexual attraction towards Humans. Unlike you.”
“Indeed.”
“Indeed.”
“The plague. This location was once a small community until everyone here died. Horribly. Admittedly, this was a decade ago, but it was evacuated and has been condemned since then.”
“Inquiring into others’ personal affairs is only a matter for the Guards while we’re on duty. Respecting another’s personal space is a principle of social interaction.”
“Deviant.”
“Maybe it was a bad time?”
“Good evening, Miss Human. I was wondering if my colleague and I could take up a moment of your time—”
“I will pass for the moment. We should get down to business rather than partake of food.”
“It is poison. Of a sort.”
“I would prefer that you call my species by their proper name.”
“Her being a runaway would be most likely. I find it hard to believe any Human would wander so far into the grasslands by accident, and she did not seem to be looking for directions. Her magical teleportation story is also possible, but why would she not have asked to be taken to the Mage’s Guild? It is clearly a cover story.”
“I will endeavor not to in the future.”
“Actually, I would like to correct you on that point. While the thinking races may level, animals and even creatures such as Dragons are not capable of leveling. Which is common knowledge.”
“Indeed.”
“I feel I must mention that you, personally, cannot breathe fire, Relc.”
“Again, apologies. But could I trouble you to remove the bandage?”
“Mammary glands? Breasts, I think they’re referred to. Or maybe the word is tits.”
“Now what? I do not believe breaking and entering would be appropriate at this moment.”
“Or inflict other forms of bodily or mental harm upon you.”
“I would gladly partake of nourishment if offered. However, we would not wish to deprive you of your meal.”
“Oh, so are you…lost? Or travelling maybe?”
“Michigan? I’m not familiar with that city. Or is it a nation…? Is that north of here? Over the mountains, maybe? On this continent?”
“That was my assessment.”
“Agreed. And it is very restful. You should attempt it sometime.”
“Almost.”
“A pity. Let’s be on our way.”
“You know we will be called upon to go after those who got away. And there is damage assessment, guard detail, investigating any burglaries during the violence…”
“After you.”
“Don’t insult the Watch Captain while we are within earshot.”
“Do not fret. The Human will not be going anywhere.”
“There. I have signed us both out. Again.”
“Indeed. It has been nice to make your acquaintance.”
“I would be delighted to try the blue fruit. I believe my tongue-tied partner would like some as well.”
“Please excuse my companion’s lack of tact.”
“I believe staring is considered rude in most cultures. Sit down and cease your rudeness.”
“My thanks.”
“Very true. Our absence was most lamentable. But allow us to perform our duty now. Incidentally, Mistress Solstice, the pasta was delicious.”
“Do not move. You are under arrest for intimidation and attempted theft. Remain still. Any sudden moves will result in bodily harm.”
“[Detect Guilt] is a basic Skill most [Guardsmen] get. I can sense your guilt, which is enough for me to justify this arrest.”
“I believe that may be a Human standard.”
“A pity. But we shall do without.”
“You are lying.”
“Gone.”
“Thank you for informing us of his class, Mistress Erin. Although he posed no threat to either Relc or I, he is far more dangerous than we had believed. I did not notice the illusion spell. I have grown inattentive, lax. Relc as well, but this is a critical failing on my part.”
“We should be able to cover the distance in approximately ten minutes if we run.”
“I believe Humans have more limited eyesight than you or I.”
“Indeed. It is unfortunate we must leave so soon. Our apologies, Miss Solstice.”
“Well then.”
“Please pardon our intrusion. Is this establishment open for business?”
“Relc.”
“If you would be so kind. Thank you, Miss Erin. It is Klbkch, but you may refer to me as Senior Guardsman if that is simpler.”
“Alas, I did not anticipate an arrest, and my gear is signed out at the barracks. I am without manacles or spell-bind rope. We shall have to be attentive with its lack. Unless Miss Solstice has anything to bind him with?”
“Do not be alarmed. I mean you no harm.”
“Not entirely. I do believe my companion would earn a small fee for directing any business to his associates.”
“I am merely pointing out the truth.”
“Perhaps if you explained our function more properly there would be no need for outrage. Clearly, the nature of guardspeople differs culturally. I thought Humans did it quite similarly in the north, but…elaborate, Relc.”
“Or destroying us in a number of ways. The lack of lightning falling from the sky or [Fireballs] confirms this.”
“Relax. I would prefer not to damage this establishment. Nor would the owner or even you, I suspect.”
“Or me. However, you should encounter no problems. Only those with past records of crime are unwelcome in Liscor.”
“I believe she is saying insults to our position are quite common.”
“Such as?”
“I am unsure of when he left. He may have escaped only a few minutes ago. We may still catch him if we hurry.”
“I do not believe she can, in point of fact.”
“Miss Solstice.”
“That is well. Then, please stand clear. We will be going about our business, and I would not wish you hurt.”
“Desist your actions or—”
“Regardless of your affiliation to any academy, you are still under arrest. Please surrender now or I will be forced to employ lethal force.”
“No.”
“In point of fact, my comrade’s actions are not—”
“I believe Senior Guardsman Relc does have just cause, Miss Erin Solstice. It is true that his personal sworn testimony would be called into question if you were to speak against him. [Detect Truth] spells would settle that matter, but Relc’s history of inappropriate conduct on-and-off-duty does not help his case.”
“I do not believe I am.”
“Do not mind him. You are within your rights to enforce law within this establishment as you choose. I apologize for the mess on both our behalves.”
“…I believe I am incorrect. Relc, the Watch has no authority here. This is an independent inn, and the [Innkeeper] is allowed to deny our authority here.”
“Please forgive my rudeness. Are you well? We doubled back and lingered, knowing the criminal may have only pretended to flee the area. Are you hurt or in need of assistance?”
“She is correct. Without her testimony, we cannot submit a report regarding his attempted thefts.”
“Is useless. Surrender.”
“However. As Senior Guardsman Klbkch, I will vouch for my partner to take this Human into custody for unlawful practices which include extortion, theft, and intimidation, which we have every right to suspect, with or without your testimony.”
“That would be inadvisable, Relc. We are off-duty, and Miss Solstice has stated her case. Executing a [Mage] of Wistram might also affect the Academy’s relationship with our city. Which the Council and Watch Captain would not be happy about.”
“Miss Solstice? Miss Solstice, you must drink.”
“Drink.”
“Miss Solstice. Are you well?”
“Say rather that it has become obvious. It is an unbelievable statement, but it is the only one I can come to.”
“Ah. Miss Solstice?”
“I thought as much.”
“I do not mean this country or even this continent. You are not from here, are you?”
“You are not from here, are you, Miss Solstice?”
“Many clues lead me to this conclusion. Your curiosity about levels and classes, your mysterious arrival, and this ‘Michigan,’ which is no nation recorded in any book or map. But most of all, it was this last moment. No Human would weep for a Goblin.”
“No Human. No Drake or Gnoll, Selphid, Dullahan, Beastkin, or any creature from this world would.”
“Worry not. The healing potion worked. The bandage has stuck to your skin.”
“The Antinium? We do not weep.”
“You will be weak for at least a day afterwards. However, you will recover in full. You are lucky; there was no infection that the healing potion could have exacerbated.”
“I buried it outside. Far from the inn, in pieces, to prevent chance reanimation. Worry not.”
“You are still suffering from this encounter. Your mental state is unbalanced.”
“I had made the observation that you were not from this world, Miss Solstice.”
“Then you have a commonality with many non-Antinium species. My apologies. I should not be asking such questions now. You are still in shock.”
“As you say.”
“I have disposed of the Goblin Chieftain’s body. However, there are many Goblins still hiding nearby. If you feel safe here, I will dispose of as many as I can. If not, I will escort you to the city and then return with reinforcements to—”
“Of course. Forgive my rudeness. But if I may, I would like to suggest a course of action.”
“Is there something you wish to ask of me, Miss Solstice?”
“They are worthy skills. Unusual for the [Innkeeper] class, but not unheard of.”
“May I ask why not?”
“Undoubtedly.”
“No? If you feel unable to travel, I can—”
“I do not understand your reasoning. But I will accede to your request. Know that I will defend myself with lethal force if attacked, however.”
“This is true. Over a quarter of the deaths of travellers on the roads around Liscor are due to Goblin attacks. They are murderers.”
“Many would argue otherwise, Miss Solstice. Goblins are considered monsters and bandits for the purposes of determining crime under Liscorian law. They are killers who prey on the weak. You have nearly died at the hands of one.”
“I mean no offense. It is simply that all beings know how classes and skills work.”
“To put it simply, classes are general ways of life that individuals take. In life, one might choose to become a [Butcher], or perhaps a [Musician]. It is simply a matter of fulfilling the requirements. Often, they are known, but there are exceptions. One cannot simply take [Ruler]-type classes for instance.”
“That is indeed one of the ways to learn such a class. But in any case, classes increase one’s proficiency at their role with each new level. And with that increase in ability, Skills may be learnt. But there is no one set of Skills for a class.”
“Indeed not. Two individuals taking the [Soldier] class, for instance, may learn different Skills at the same level. It is a matter of need and inclination which allows individuals to learn skills. For instance, while Relc is a higher-level warrior than I, he is not of a higher level in the actual [Guardsman] class and thus does not possess the [Detect Guilt] skill.”
“It is not known. But our oldest texts tell us of this truth.”
“Do you understand?”
“It is the way of the world. All races that think are given the ability to level and take classes.”
“Learning skills is not merely a matter of levels. Classes and leveling are simply the basis of our lives so we may grow faster from what we do. It is a fact of life.”
“It is simply how we live our life. This is a universal truth throughout the world. Is yours not the same?”
“It is part of the lessons any child learns. The exact wording comes from a book: The Book of Levels, which was originally written nearly twenty thousand years ago. Copies of this text are among the few mainstream works that have been faithfully reproduced into this age. I have studied it extensively upon coming to this continent to understand the mentality of the peoples here, as well as levels and classes in general.”
“All those that Think—Feel. From Feeling do we Act. It is in Action that we Level. All those who Think have a Class. And it is in that Class which we find destiny.”
“I beg your pardon?”
“I took no offense, Miss Solstice. I realize you have gone through a traumatic event. The fault lies with me for not being more receptive to your distress. I should have provided more comfort and companionship. In that, my partner Relc is occasionally more effective than I.”
“I see. It is a long way to Rhir. Here. Please accept this.”
“I will remain here with your permission. It would be unwise to—”
“One last question, Miss Solstice, if I may? What caused the Goblin Chieftain to attack you in the first place? It is rare that the tribal leader takes any aggressive action if unprovoked.”
“Well then. Take care, Miss Solstice.”
“Good night to you. Please accept my apologies for the inconvenience. I shall take my leave.”
“May I ask how you know?”
“Allow me to apologize on both our behalves. Words cannot express my shame.”
“Respectfully, I must disagree. Though the Goblin Chieftain is dead, his tribe may seek vengeance.”
“Not at all, Senior Guardswoman Beilmark.”
“Very well then.”
“Another sign you do not belong to this world, Miss Solstice.”
“I understand this is a bet made to recover your lost coin. However, I fear I must issue the same warning as Relc. The odds of you winning a game against Olesm are quite slim.”
“Indeed. It is all over the city.”
“I believe you have given her adequate information. If she will not listen to you, she will not listen to me.”
“I am uncertain at this point. Allow me a few moments to assess the board before I give you my opinion. And please, lower your voice.”
“Miss Solstice. Please forgive my companion's interruption. We are on duty, and it is improper of us to disturb a member of the public without cause. But Relc insisted we speak with you once we heard of the bet that had been made.”
“As Senior Guardsmen, we would be happy to provide assistance in assessing all financial income for your business, as well as any unpaid taxes that may be extant. For now, we will have to order your shop closed while we begin a thorough investigation of your wares and inventory.”
“And he is a Level 22 [Tactician]. There are few higher-level [Tacticians] even within the Liscorian army. Although that is largely because most consolidate to [Strategist].”
“Miss Solstice. I believe this is your wager.”
“—Of course, these games are quite rare outside of your home nation, Miss Solstice. I doubt they would have permeated to Izril yet. I have heard of and observed Shogi before.”
“May I ask how you managed such an incredible display? I would not have thought it possible, nor deemed it prudent to bet against Olesm in a game of chess until this moment.”
“Congratulations on your victory, Miss Solstice.”
“I am merely fulfilling my duty as a member of the Watch. And once again, may I congratulate you on your victory? I would greatly enjoy playing a game against you once I am off-duty.”
“The sun is rising in two hours. This will do.”
“Within you will dig. There is a door. Reach it. If monsters attack, kill them. Dig—you have until morning.”
“Follow. In silence. We must not be detected.”
“Good. Very good. Go back and rest. This will do.”
“Collapse the opening. The door should be visible from above; no signs of any tunneling. Work fast. We have less than an hour.”
“I shall expedite it at once. Five teams of Workers have already perished, but we are near completion. You four. And you…sixteen. Follow me.”
“Another breach. The fifth this week. Casualties mount. My Queen—we cannot continue this rate of attrition.”
“My fellow…Workers are not as used to dealing with other species as I. It would be imprudent to bother you with their presence.”
“I would not want to put you to any inconvenience.”
“Not if you’re a Goblin.”
“Despite their competency, a Goblin tribe is no threat to any but lone stragglers, Miss Solstice. On the other hand, a small raiding party is usually comprised of at least three hundred Goblins. Larger groups have been known to exceed a thousand individuals.”
“I fear you were under a slight misapprehension, Miss Solstice.”
“Exactly how many Goblins were in this group you observed, Miss Solstice?”
“It is quite true, Miss Solstice.”
“Extremely. Although Goblins are considered a minor threat by most settlements of any size, when they do appear in numbers, they are fully capable of wiping out villages, cities, and even nations in the past.”
“Or underground.”
“They are usually confined in villages to the north of Liscor. The city hosts many pigs, sheep, horses—”
“That is appropriate for the season. At this time of the year, the Floodplains contain few creatures besides the Goblins. Aside from grazing herds, most animals—”
“—The certainty of Drakes in the impregnability of Liscor seems unwise. My people have brought up the need for increased vigilance to your governing body, but—”
“The north is still relatively unguarded. If the Humans were to unite under the Five Families—”
“That is true. Most residents of Liscor do not fear war. I personally deem this unwise given the volatile nature of conflict between nations on this continent.”
“Exactly my point. If a stranger to our city can identify the weak spot so quickly, why is the populace so resistant to any suggestions regarding defense?”
“I assure you, soup is completely palatable to my kind.”
“My kind is fully capable of digesting most dishes eaten by humanoids. However, it is true that if offered we will eat creatures Humans and Drakes deem unsavory. We do not tend to consume such meals in public—”
“I would not like to offend your sensibilities with a description of my diet, Miss Solstice—”
“I would like a bowl of soup too, if it would not trouble you, Miss Solstice.”
“I am not sure that would be too…wise.”
“Do you mean for me to bring others of my kind, Miss Solstice?”
“It is a troublesome predicament.”
“Naturally, the influx of adventuring parties leads to more trouble. However, it will also bring in needed trade and many merchants who seek to do business. Thus, while guardsmen such as Relc and myself find the situation hard to manage, the city is far more positive about these findings. Also, may I trouble you for another plate?”
“It is…surprising. I had not known the Acid Flies of this region were so…tasty. Until this moment, I had never attempted to consume one.”
“Was it difficult?”
“A creature that lives in the sea, I believe. The name is quite apt.”
“That is not entirely correct. Levels cannot replace tactics or numerical superiority, or equipment, for that matter. However, it is still a potent deterrent to larger forces. That allows the Liscorian army to fight as a mercenary force without prolonged engagements.”
“The strain of madness has not been eliminated from the current generation. We have reduced the average instance of insanity by 14% per year, but we must remain vigilant.”
“Another serving, if you please, Miss Solstice. It is true such sites bring increased commerce to our city, but the negative effects of so many adventurers cannot be discounted.”
“Greetings, Miss Solstice. Is something wrong?”
“I believe the Necromancer did not help public perception, but the undead have always been considered a threat, Miss Solstice. It is said that the three most dangerous things to Liscor are rain, the undead, and war.”
“Thank you, Miss Solstice.”
“We have a standing contract with the people of Liscor. In exchange for our presence, we provide services and goods to the city. It is a mutually beneficial arrangement.”
“…Are any of their objections backed by orders? Have Xrn or Wrymvr made any objections of their own known?”
“To the best of my knowledge and ability, I believe her so. Nor does she fear us, my Queen. It is as if she has no past with nor knowledge of the Black Tide.”
“My Queen, do we no longer seek to improve relations with other species? Is this not why Liscor’s Hive was founded at such great effort? Drakes are one species; Humans would be a rare boon, even if she was but one representative predisposed to look kindly on us.”
“She did not ask for the Workers specifically. Rather, she was inclined to sell foodstuffs to our people. Acid Flies. She wishes to earn money by gaining our business.”
“Her name is Erin Solstice, my Queen. And I believe—yes, I believe the experience may help further our plan in some small way. At the very least, it would help increase her trust of our kind. A rare opportunity.”
“Is that the position of the Grand Queen? If I may offer my counsel, that would be…unwise. The Hives are not ready.”
“I cannot. But I will try.”
“I shall bring you a sample, my Queen.”
“I will ensure that all goes well, my Queen. Erin Solstice is not hostile to our kind. I believe she will be a positive influence for them.”
“Sit!”
“Ha. Hahahaha. That is a good joke, Miss Erin. No, these are Workers. They will behave themselves under my supervision.”
“You have entered an inn. The polite protocol is to introduce oneself and then take a seat. I will handle your greetings. Move to those tables.”
“I am afraid you are under a misapprehension. These are Workers, Miss Solstice. They are not fellow guardsmen—rather, they perform tasks within the Antinium section of the city. I took them because you wished for more customers, but I have not interacted with them before.”
“There is no problem, Miss Solstice. I have brought others of my kind as you requested.”
“My deepest apologies. I was not aware this was an insult to your culture.”
“It was a good game.”
“Do you mean to say that there are established counters to this opening? And that this move is a chronicled…strategy? I had not heard of that.”
“Indeed. I am quite impressed by your ability.”
“It is impolite to intrude or impede the innkeeper’s path.”
“I would not wish to impose on your hospitality or patience—”
“Congratulations, Olesm.”
“What are you doing, Worker?”
“…Watch?”
“Allow me to thank you and pay you in their place, Erin.”
“Please.”
“It is only fair payment for what we have consumed. And, might I trouble you to ask for a container of Acid Flies? I wish to bring some back to Liscor.”
“My apologies, Olesm Swifttail. I had forgotten you were with us.”
“Certainly. May I ask if you are addressing your comment to the liaison of the Antinium or Senior Guardsmen Klbkch?”
“Her mastery of the game of chess may be unmatched within the continent.”
“…Would you like to play a game after this, by any chance?”
“I understand your concerns. If it helps, I will address this topic in my monthly report to inform you of any significant changes. I shall note our conversation and these instances most rigorously in my report to Captain Zevara.”
“Indeed.”
“It is late. I am afraid we must take our leave, Miss—Erin. If I may address you in that way.”
“No, my Queen. I merely request that a few of the Workers—perhaps ten or twenty—may be allowed to leave the city in my care. They would visit a local inn for several hours before returning.”
“I regret that this is not my initiative, my Queen. She—the innkeeper of which I spoke—she requested it of me. I am merely representing our Hive in a unique opportunity. Not necessarily one I have faith in for the success we hope for.”
“Yes, my Queen?”
“I believe there are players of this game on every continent, Olesm. We appear to be in the presence of a master.”
“Address her by her title.”
“Indeed?”
“Thank you, my Queen. I will not betray your trust in me.”
“We shall see. They will be observed as usual, and I will personally supervise them.”
“I trust you have enjoyed yourself tonight?”
“I’m sorry, Watch Captain. You were saying?”
“I may have received less-than-adequate sleep, Watch Captain. The error is mine. Please feel free to dock my pay.”
“Ten years.”
“Is my own badge so poorly maintained that it has become an issue for the Watch? You should have alerted me earlier, Relc. Watch Captain, I apologize for—”
“I believed you were trying to get me to buy you snacks. Again. And skip work.”
“Guildmistress Tekshia. Good evening.”
“Do something. Say something—where are your souls? You mindless, fake Antinium!”
“How much longer?”
“Then, my punishment, Watch Captain?”
“Me? What is the occasion, Watch Captain Zevara?”
“What is going on? Am I being pranked? Again?”
“State your business immediately or be cut down. Why has the Queen not alerted me?”
“Clean up the bodies. Get back to work.”
“…Why?”
“For what purpose do you wish to visit Erin Solstice?”
“Chess?”
“Explain yourself.”
“They call me the Slayer. Come.”
“Stay awake, Erin. I have a potion. Stay alive for a few seconds longer.”
“Can you not move?”
“Miss Solstice.”
“If they could see me. Run.”
“I must save Erin. Cover me.”
“I cannot slay the rest. Nine Goblins are too many—I am a failure. Forty Goblins. Forty Goblins—”
“Then go. Once you are in sight of the city, you will be safe.”
“Erin Solstice. You are safe? Good. My Queen will send—her Soldiers will come. You will be safe.”
“I was weary. Forgive me.”
“Fascinating. So this—First Queen laugh—in pieces. Today of all days.”
“You must flee. I will buy you a moment.”
“I see. Your request will be considered. Return to your duties. Now.”
“I obey my Queen.”
“Harry the undead. Pursue that creature.”
“Are you unharmed, Miss Solstice?”
“Do not slow! The creature must not be allowed to retreat into the ruins!”
“You have fallen. Allow me to help you up.”
“It is not safe here. Remain behind me, Erin.”
“Greetings, Erin Solstice. May I come in?”
“True Antinium never truly die. And I…I have a promise to keep.”
““Yes.””
““Over two hundred guardsmen and nearly a thousand civilians perished before the Hive was mobilized. Had they broken the Watch Captain’s lines, the number would be tenfold despite our sortie. She acted very bravely.””
““Yes.””
““Three hundred sixty-five Soldiers and a hundred and forty-seven Workers. Nearly half again as many are wounded, but the losses were quite minimal.””
““The process to revive me. It was a delicate matter that occupied the Queen’s full attention. Without her guidance, Ksmvr did what he deemed best. He chose wrongly.””
““Yes, Erin?””
““Ksmvr was a fool. He nearly cost the Hive the city, our position here and status across the continent, and…other assets. I will deal with him soon enough.””
““He does not.””
““Ksmvr believed the Queen had to be protected above all else. He withdrew all Soldiers into the Hive while she finished the Rite of Anastases.””
““In truth, only a Prognugator would be considered…worthy of the effort and time required for such an act. Moreover, it is not something done lightly. There are consequences. I have lost ten levels in every class. A considerable setback, although my new body reduces the impact on my abilities quite significantly. And the time it took—my Queen labored for nearly two weeks without rest to restore my being.””
““That is broadly correct, yes.””
““There were other material costs as well. The Hive would not be able to support such an action more than once or twice. The others—””
““The Prognugator role was never meant for specialized action. Moreover, it was thought that the Worker form would allow a Prognugator to blend in to reduce the dangers of assassination during times of war. This new form will greatly improve my abilities.””
““Yes. I am swifter, more mobile, and possess several changes to my anatomy not incorporated into other Antinium. The older design of four arms was inefficient. This new body will serve me better.””
““It was nothing.””
““They died well. I would not have expected mere—they rose above what they were. For that, I honor them.””
““Yes. Many things.””
““Others? Ah. You mean the individuals who were once Workers. No.””
““There is much that must be done. Reparations must be made to the city. The Antinium did not honor their promise. We must rebuild, put up barriers outside the Ruins.””
““It is called the Rite of Anastases. It is a…process which the Queen of the Antinium may undertake. It allows the dead to be reborn into a new body. A secret of the Antinium.””
““A war would be tenfold higher at the very least. A hundredfold. It was a small price to pay and would have been smaller still had my predecessor not erred. Had we fought alongside the Watch, we would have pushed the undead back without taking nearly so many losses. Had they held the gates, less than a hundred might have died.””
““Miss Solstice. Are you alright?””