Yemina's eyes fluttered open slowly, a groan escaping her lips as a wave of pain washed over her. She attempted to shift, but her body felt leaden and uncooperative. As her gaze swept the room, she found herself in unfamiliar surroundings–a small, sparsely furnished room with her lying on a bed.
A flicker of panic ignited within her.
With a grimace, she tried to push herself into a sitting position, but a searing pain lanced through her chest forcing a deep gasp to escape her.
Her hand instinctively clutched at the bandages encircling her torso, and as she did, it was then she noticed the raithe man seated at a small table in the corner of the room. His eyes were trained on her, a look of concern etched onto his features.
The raithe’s hair was white as Tenera’s moon but with a tinge of red tips that gave them the appearance of being dipped in blood, and his skin was pale, which made his bright red eyes stand out–he was attractive and appeared almost aristocratic in how he carried himself.
Some noble’s bastard maybe?
The man gave her a fanged smile, which would probably disarm even noblewomen. She, on the other hand, searched for a weapon as she tried to remember where she had seen him before.
Where am I?
Her mind was hazy, clouded by the pain and the drugs that must have been administered to her. She tried to speak, but her throat was dry and raw, and all that came out was a hoarse croak.
The man immediately stood up from his chair and walked over to her. “Easy, Yemina. You’re safe here,” he said softly, his voice gentle and calming. “You’re in a safe house with some… friends who are taking care of you.”
Yemina looked at him, feeling the confusion etching itself into her face. “Who… who are you? Why did you hesitate before saying friends?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper as her eyes continued to dart around looking for options.
The raithe’s expression softened and he lifted his hands up, keeping them visible. “My name is Stefan. We met in the alleyway. You were hurt, and I helped you get here. There are two members of the Blades Guild here. They’re trusted by the Guildmaster, but I haven’t met them before,” he explained.
Yemina frowned, trying to remember the events that had led to her being here, but all she could recall was the pain and thinking she’d failed. She looked down at herself, noticing the bandages around her arms and legs, in addition to her torso. “What… what happened to me?” she asked, her voice starting to waver as her memory seemed to fail her.
Stefan sighed and sat down on the edge of the bed. “I believe you were attacked by the others of the same group that attacked us. They ambushed you, but you managed to kill them all. Unfortunately, you were grievously injured and have been unconscious for three days now.”
“Who were they?” she asked slowly, her voice still raw.
Stefan stood up and quickly poured her a glass of water before returning to sit beside her.
“We don’t know who they were. They were after a young girl named Mariel, and they killed Vicori Fynn when he was supposed to meet with my liege and me,” he explained, helping her up and handing her the glass of water.
Yemina took the glass with a shaky hand and took a small sip, feeling the cool liquid soothe her dry throat. She closed her eyes, a wave of nausea washing over her as the memories started to resurface. She could feel tears prickling at the corners of her eyes, and she fought to keep them at bay.
The vicori.
Her eyes widened as her memories of the night slammed into her. The note.
“Your liege, who is it?” she croaked.
Stefan's expression became guarded at her question. “My liege is Lady Reinhart,” he said slowly, watching her closely for any signs of recognition or reaction.
Yemina's mind raced, trying to place the name. Lady Reinhart… why did it sound familiar? She felt a headache starting to form behind her eyes as she tried to remember. “Why were you meeting with Vicori Fynn?” she asked, hoping to get some answers that would jog her memory.
“There is a group of people after a young priestess-in-training. They call her an Avatar,” he explained. Her eyes went wide, realizing the implications immediately.
“Of which god?” she asked quietly, her voice slowly returning.
His face took on a pained look. “Tenera.”
Yemina gasped. There is potentially an Avatar of one of the Family walking amongst us?
He must have realized her reaction because he put a hand up.
“Wait, before you get all excited. Please allow me to explain, then I need your help. My liege’s life hangs in the balance,” he said seriously.
Yemina nodded slowly and winced as she pushed to sit up further in the bed.
Then the man spoke of mana and magic and Yemina found herself unable to look away.
Captain Meerin was having a bad week. Not only had he been completely unable to locate the source of the tip that had led them to the terran, but he believed he had found evidence of corruption in several offices of the Guard.
Not only that, but they had zero leads on where to find the terran noble’s other guard or members of the woman’s House. They had disappeared. The innkeeper only recalled receiving payment and a note regarding their departure the same night the Guard had apprehended the noblewoman.
It was infuriating.
He really disliked having been put in this position, but a simple Guard Captain did not dismiss the orders of a justicar.
Captain Meerin walked into the Justicar’s Hall and made his way to the man’s office. The city’s three Justicars each dictated the policy and actions of the Guard in addition to making judgments. Their role was the peace and safety of the city. The one he needed to see was responsible for handling the Guard’s external operations, including any conflicts with foreign entities or organizations that operated outside the city’s jurisdiction. It was why the case that involved a terran and the Church was seen by him.
The man’s personal guard opened the office door as he approached, allowing him to enter. Justicar Solen was seated at his desk, pouring over a stack of documents. He looked up as Captain Meerin entered, his expression betraying no emotion.
“What news do you bring?” he asked, his voice calm and measured.
“None good, I’m afraid,” Captain Meerin replied, feeling a sense of unease settle in his gut. “We have yet to find any solid leads on the whereabouts of the terran noble’s other guard or members of her House. Worse, I have found… inconsistencies in reports regarding the woman within the Guard itself.”
Justicar Solen’s expression did not change, but Captain Meerin could feel the man’s gaze weighing heavily upon him. “I see,” the Justicar said after a moment of silence. “And what is being done to investigate these matters?”
Captain Meerin cleared his throat. “I have assigned some of my most trusted officers to look into the inconsistencies. As for the missing persons, we are continuing to search the city and question anyone who may have seen or heard something. But so far, we have come up empty-handed.”
The old telv closed his eyes for three beats before opening them, the captain didn’t dare interrupt the silence.
“Prepare the Guard at the prison for a response from the Church,” the Justicar ordered. “I will speak to the council. In the meantime, you are to stop anyone except the Inquistorious from taking action. We will not go to war against the Holy Order. Not when…”
The captain tilted his head. “When what, your honor?”
Justicar Solen suddenly seemed much older.
“The Empire conquered the port of Cartaelk,” he said grimly. “Even now an army is moving north toward us. Our reserves are moving south to intercept them, but we are very soon about to be cut off from the rest of the Cities. The Gearldine Bay is officially under blockade. Our navy… suffered a setback and has retreated to the city for repairs.”
Captain Meerin's eyes widened in shock. He had heard rumors of where the Empire was moving, but he had never expected them to succeed. The Gearldine Bay was a vital trade route, and if it was under blockade, it would mean disaster for the city's economy. He knew that the Guard would need to act quickly if they were to protect the citizens from the chaos that would undoubtedly follow.
The Justicar continued, “Relena damn us, but this trial is not important. All that matters is that the Church does not make it worse for us. If they want the woman executed, that is what they’ll get. We must prioritize the defense of our city and our people. Inform the Guard to remain vigilant and prepare for any possible unrest. We cannot afford to lose the city to panic and chaos.”
Captain Meerin nodded, feeling the weight of the responsibility on his shoulders. His thoughts turned to the lack of any true evidence that would prove the terran’s guilt. He knew that the coming days would be difficult, but he would do everything in his power to protect his home and his people.
Even if it meant standing by while an innocent woman was condemned to death.
Spread throughout the bowels of the Swanbrook prison, a full company of the City Guard stood in strategic locations, fully armed and armored, as they assured that not only would their magical prisoner not escape judgment, but that anyone else wouldn’t try and force her death.
Sloane sat in the cell while Nemura slept. The women had spent the past three days in there, waiting. She sighed as she looked at the dimly lit cell walls, trying to keep herself occupied by counting the bricks. She had been through some rough situations since arriving, but being stuck in a cell with no idea what was going on outside was beginning to take its toll. She trusted Stefan would figure out something, but the waiting was nearly unbearable.
Nemura shifted in her sleep, causing Sloane to turn her attention to her friend. Nemura had been a constant presence during their imprisonment, offering words of encouragement and support. Sloane couldn't help but feel grateful for the telv's unwavering loyalty.
I have to make it up to her.
A bang at the door caused her to jerk in surprise. The small hatch opened and two bowls of gruel were shoved through and then closed again.
She sighed as Nemura groaned and sat up. “Time to eat?”
Sloane nodded. “Yup. I swear, I think I’m more liable to blow this place up because of the food than anything else.”
The woman gave her a tired huff of air.
“Don’t worry. I have faith in Stefan,” she said.
Sloane let out an exaggerated exhale. “Yeah… me too. We already missed that first ship, though.”
Nemura shrugged as she stood up and grabbed the two bowls, passing one to Sloane, before sitting next to her. “We’ll find another one.”
I hope so.
She took a small bite of the… thin porridge that tasted bland and chunky. It took all she had to choke it down.
One more day.
Stefan stole a glance at the sleeping form of Mariel before turning and looking at the two Blades that had been assigned to protect them by Guildmaster Cross.
“Keep her safe,” he said quietly.
The woman, a telv, nodded. “Of course, Stranca. We won’t let anything happen to her.”
He turned and looked at the paladin. Her armor was beat up, but she had spent all morning cleaning it as best as she could. She would not be good in a fight in her current condition, but he didn’t expect it to come to that.
“Are you ready?” he asked the sun elf.
Evocati Yemina nodded. “Yes. Let’s prevent your baroness from being executed. Then we need to get out of the city.”
His eyes widened. “You’re leaving?”
The woman gave him another nod. “Yes, the headquarters in Rosale needs to be warned of the traitors and to call an Inquisition. The girl needs protection while her status is ascertained. I have decided that I will join you.”
Stefan raised an eyebrow in surprise. He hadn't expected the Evocati to offer her aid, especially after what she had just been through. But he could see the determination in her eyes and knew that she wouldn't back down.
“Very well,” he said with a nod. “We could use all the help we can get.”
Yemina smiled weakly. “I'll do what I can.”
Stefan took a deep breath before opening the door to the safe house. The Blades stepped out first and made sure the area was clear before gesturing for him and Yemina to come out.
The streets of the city were teeming with people going about their daily business. Stefan walked next to the paladin who strode with all of the confidence that she could muster.
As they made their way towards the Justicar's Hall, Stefan noticed a group of Blades and guards from the Banking Guild waiting for them, along with a representative from each. The group appeared to be well-armed and prepared for whatever might come their way.
One of the Blades stepped forward and greeted them with a respectful bow. “Greetings, Blade Stranca. We have been sent by Guildmaster Cross to assist you in your mission.”
Stefan nodded in acknowledgment. “Thank you. We appreciate any help we can get.”
The representative from the Banking Guild spoke up next. “We are here to ensure the safety of the noblewoman. We cannot allow the Church to overstep their bounds and execute an innocent person, especially one with such importance to the Guilds.”
The two looked at the paladin at Stefan’s side hesitantly.
Yemina spoke up for the first time since they had left the safe house. “It isn’t the Church that is doing this. There are traitors in the Temple of Swanbrook. We need to act quickly. The longer we wait, the more likely it is that the High Priest will act against Lady Reinhart.”
The two representatives glanced at each other before the Blade smiled. “We are much more amenable to dealing with corrupt members working without authority. If we have mistress paladin’s aid and coverage, we will do what needs done.”
Yemina took a deep breath. “We will seek to subdue, but do not hesitate to defend yourselves. They killed one of the youngest of my Order, and my praetor is still missing. They will be judged.”
Stefan nodded in agreement. “Let's move out then.”
The group set off towards the Justicar's Hall, a determined look on their faces as they prepared for whatever challenges lay ahead.
Ressa looked at Alexi as the group moved south along the road out of the city. The man had set up a final roadblock to ensure the terran would not work with the city, but their presence had been requested by the southern commander after she had sent out one of her men to deliver a report.
The imperial army there apparently needed their help to head off a Sovereign force coming to relieve the city.
Ressa couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction as she thought about the chaos and destruction that was likely to follow in Swanbrook. She had found where the cult had been hidden and given them information on the woman. Ressa had also been surprised at the… reach the group held.
Alexi caught her gaze. “You alright, boss?”
Ressa smiled. “I am. This distraction to the south may prove fruitful in honing our abilities.”
Alexi nodded in agreement. “I hope so. Let’s put the terran out of our minds for the time being. Place our focus on helping the army that needs your magic, we will support you and improve our own abilities,” he said with conviction. “This will be good for us, a way for us to bounce back from Marketbol. The Reinhart issue is handled for now.”
Ressa smiled, feeling a sense of pride in her lieutenant’s loyalty and dedication. “Exactly. We have a job to do, and we’ll do it well. The Empire will be proud of our efforts.”
The group continued along the road, their spirits lifted by the knowledge that they would once again be directly serving the war efforts of the Empire. While Sloane Reinhart had been the first target in their extended mission, they hadn’t forgotten that it wasn’t just about the terran.
And as they marched onward, Ressa couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for what lay ahead.
Hunting Sovereign magic users supporting their armies. It will be good practice for when we return our attention to the terran.
Sloane and Nemura were marched back into the Justicar’s Hall in manacles, surrounded by a large group of heavily armed guards. As they entered the hall, Sloane noticed that the atmosphere had changed. The Justicar sat on his chair, but he had two guards to each side of him, each with spears held tensely.
In the area where the two women were being led stood Swanbrook’s high priest in his long robes with the holy symbol of the Church around his neck. The moon elf was protected by a large group of paladins in their red armor, their faces obscured by helmets.
Where had so many come from?
The guards escorted them to the prescribed point for those being judged, where their manacles were removed before a group of guards moved to stand between them and the paladins, led by the high elf Guard captain from before.
The Justicar looked uneasy. The old telv glanced between the high priest and his retinue and Sloane. She could tell that what was happening was weighing heavily on him. The unfortunate thing was she couldn’t blame the man. He had to choose between his people and giving her up to the Church.
She narrowed her eyes. On a hunch, she used [Mana Sight] and looked at the paladins. Her eyes widened as she saw the telltale signs of at least three casters within the group. The swirling of mana that poured into them was weak, but it meant that she and Nemura would have a more difficult time if they tried to escape.
Sloane glanced at the woman and caught the woman rolling her shoulders. It was her tell that she had used her abilities that increased her attributes at the cost of a constant stamina drain.
The woman was clearly prepared.
The justicar stood up from his seat. “Lady Reinhart. You have been accused of murdering a member of the Paladins of Alos, witnesses and evidence have pointed to this being the case. What say you to these charges?”
Sloane stood tall and confident, her gaze unwavering as she faced the Justicar. “I say that I am innocent of these charges and that the evidence and witnesses against me are either false or manipulated. I demand a fair trial and the opportunity to plead my case.”
The old telv let out a deep exhale and shook his head sadly. “I do not know how things are done where you are from, but the only trial you get is my judgment. If you have no proof of your innocence then you are guilty.”
She narrowed her eyes. “You have no evidence. If you did, you would flaunt it for all to see. All people should be considered innocent until proven guilty, but I see that corruption and cowardice run deep within this city.”
“This has gone long enough, Justicar,” the high priest called out. “The Church demands justice and the fury of Alos knows no bounds. Release the terran into our custody and we will be on our way.”
Sloane turned and faced the high priest, the man looking awfully confident surrounded by his paladins. “I am telling you right now, I will not be submitting to you or anyone else here for any further punishment.”
The moon elf high priest's expression turned into a snarl. “You are in no position to negotiate, terran. You will give us the location of the girl and come with us willingly, or we will take you by force and anyone who stands in our way will be considered enemies of the Church.”
The city guardsmen around her shuffled uncomfortably at the man’s remarks. The high elf captain’s hand moved to the hilt of his sword.
Sloane stood her ground, her hands balled into fists. “I will not be party to whatever you have going on in the Church. You will not get Mariel.”
The high priest’s face turned red with rage and he spun on the Justicar. “Make your judgment, Justicar.”
With a look of resignation, the man nodded. The tension in the room grew, and Sloane prepared herself to fight. She drew on her mana, pooling it within herself to cast as many spells as possible.
The door to the hall burst open and a large crowd of people entered. The guards shifted and drew their weapons, and Sloane’s eyes widened. Stefan was at the head of a large group of armed men and women, his arm wrapped around the waist of another paladin in battered red armor. The woman looked tired but determined as she scanned the room, her eyes narrowing as she took in the sight of the other paladins.
Sloane felt a wave of relief wash over her. Not all was lost it seemed.
“What is the meaning of this?” The Justicar bellowed. “Captain!”
The high elf captain nodded. “Halt! This is a private proceeding of judgment. Vacate the hall immediately.”
Stefan let go of the paladin and he joined two other men as they made their way down the aisle. “We have come as representatives of the Banking and Blades Guilds to protest this farce of a judgment,” her raithe guard stated.
The high priest scowled. “Unless the Guilds wish to make an enemy of the Church, you will stand down immediately.”
“The Guilds have no business here,” the Justicar stated. “This is a matter for the city.”
The more nicely dressed representative shook his head. “We disagree. The Banking Guild will not allow any harm to come to Lady Reinhart, by order of the Grandmaster, himself.”
“Then an Inquisition will be called upon the corrupt Banking Guild,” the High Priest said.
“No, there won’t,” a woman shouted. The paladin that Stefan had helped enter stepped out of the group of Blades and limped her way down the aisle. She drew her blade and pointed it at the high priest. “Because these are not paladins.”
The high priest’s eyes widened, but he didn’t skip a beat. “You are a traitor to the Order, Evocati. You–”
“You are hereby Judged, High Priest. By my authority as the highest remaining member of the Holy Order, I strip you of your status. You are to–”
As one, the false paladins drew their blades. The city's guardsmen started to round on them, but the lead paladin acted quickly. With a single, fluid motion, his sword pulsed with a flash of mana as he lunged forward and impaled the Guard Captain's chest through his armor.
Nemura moved. She yanked a sword from a stunned guard and did something because she was suddenly in front of Sloane, her sword stopping the lead imposter’s blade.
“Take them out!” Nemura yelled.
The Hall descended into chaos. The guards and paladins launched into combat with each other, and the Blades and guards from the Banking Guild rushed forward.
Sloane snap-fired a [Mana Bolt] at an approaching imposter only for the armor to seemingly absorb her magic. Her eyes widened and she fired a [Flashbang], the spell going off with a crack and flash of light.
Unfortunately, her spell did more harm than good as even the guardsmen cried out, but it appeared somehow the helmets the imposter paladins wore protected them. Four guards were cut down in seconds, and Nemura shoved Sloane back before launching herself at the paladin.
“Lady Reinhart!” a female voice called out.
Sloane turned and caught sight of one of the city’s guards holding a sword and a sack. Her sword.
She rushed over and recognized the high elf woman from when they were processed into the prison. “Why do you have these?” Sloane yelled as the battle raged on around them.
“The captain told me to have them, just in case!” the woman said as she handed Sloane her sword and reached into the bag, pulling out her watch. “I told you I’d keep it safe.”
Sloane nodded and grabbed the watch, slapping it onto her wrist. She turned and saw one of the paladins launch a spike of ice that caught the Justicar in the chest. The old telv went down with a cry of pain.
The high elf woman’s eyes widened in shock. “We have to stop them!”
Sloane nodded as she raised her hands and cast [Arcane Barrage]. The five arcane projectiles burst forward and slammed into a group of imposter paladins, each exploding with increasing effect as it overwhelmed whatever protection they had on their armor.
Nemura followed up with a series of swift strikes, taking out two more of the paladins before they could react, while Stefan weaved through more, cutting down a man before moving on to another.
The battle raged on, with the imposter paladins slowly being pushed back, but the city guard was taking heavy losses. Sloane saw one of the imposters, the ice magic user, casting spells that were causing the ground to freeze over, making it difficult for the guards and Blades to move.
She gritted her teeth and focused her mana, casting [Arcane Lance]. The beam of concentrated arcane power shot out and slammed into the ice magic user, the armor resisted for only a moment before the spell pierced through the man’s chest.
An imposter threw a burst of fire at a Blade, then used another spell that ignited it further as it hit the woman. The woman let loose a primal scream of pain as she was burned to death. The man turned and his hands started to burn again when suddenly the fire vanished in a flash of yellow mana.
The wounded paladin woman stepped forward, her hand raised and her eyes glowing yellow. The man tried to cast again, but the woman again did something, dispelling his fire.
She cast two [Mana Bolts] at the man, causing him to nearly fall over. Then Stefan appeared and stabbed into the weak points of the fire caster’s armor with his daggers.
The man tried to swing his blade behind him, but then Stefan pulled his long daggers out and stabbed again and twisted. The man fell as Stefan moved on.
Several other imposters turned their attention to her, and Sloane dodged their attacks as she weaved through the melee.
As she ran, she cast [Mana Bolt] at one of the imposters, hitting him in the chest and sending him stumbling back. She followed up with another [Arcane Barrage], channeling the spell as it spit forth its arcane fury, taking down two more of the imposters.
But she wasn't the only one using magic. One of the imposters was a healer, and Sloane could see him weaving spells to heal the wounded “paladins” as they slowly retreated toward one of the exits, surrounding the high priest. She knew they needed to take him out if they wanted to win this fight.
She rushed at the man, but the healer noticed her and tried to cast a spell. She altered her [Flashbang] and fired it. The changed spell hit the man square in the face and popped off in a dull ringing that vibrated the man’s armor, interrupting his concentration, and leaving him vulnerable. She weaved around an imposter fighting Nemura and brought a hand up to the healer’s chest. Sloane cast [Arcane Lance], taking him down before he could heal the frauds any further.
The tide of the battle had turned. Seeing that their healer was down, the imposters gave up any chance of winning and quickly retreated. The city guard and the Blades chased after the fleeing fighters, but Sloane just sagged in relief.
She looked around, seeing the price. The guard captain was dead, as was the Justicar. The remaining imposters had given the High Priest enough time to escape, but at least the fight was over.
And she was free.
Sloane breathed a sigh of relief as the chaos was finally over. The City Guard was starting to regroup under the direction of the high elf woman, and the Blades were checking on their wounded. She walked over to Stefan and Nemura, who was wounded but still standing.
“We did it,” Sloane said, a smile spreading across her face.
Nemura grinned. “We did. I… am going to need some work. One of the bastards got lucky and caught me on the side.”
“I have a place where we can tend to you,” Stefan said. “Mariel is there and safe. Yemina–the paladin that helped us–will be joining us.”
“Good,” Sloane said as she surveyed the scene. The high elf guardswoman caught her attention and gestured her over.
As Sloane approached, the woman took a deep breath, her expression tense. “Lady Reinhart, as the highest ranking guardsman present, I need you to…” She sighed before continuing, “With all due respect, I need you and your group to get the fuck out of here. I must regain control of the situation and assess our next course of action. While I may face consequences for this decision, I am hereby absolving you of all charges. However, we will need to have further discussions, so I urge you to remain in the city for the time being.”
Sloane nodded. “Understood. And, thank you.”
The woman gave her a weak smile. “No, thank you. While I am sure the council will try and blame you somehow for all of this, we would not have survived without you. Now, if you’ll excuse me.”
Sloane watched as the woman made her way toward the center of the chaos, barking orders at the remaining guardsmen.
Stefan placed a hand on her shoulder. “Let’s go. Let them do their job.” They turned and found the two representatives from the guilds approaching.
The Blade spoke first.
“Lady Reinhart, we will handle this. When we need you, we’ll come to find you. In the meantime, we suggest laying low,” the man implored her.
Sloane glanced at her people, Stefan moved to wrap his arm around the paladin again, while Nemura winced with a hand on her side.
“Okay, we’ll be in touch,” she said, giving one last look at the scene behind them.
As they made their way through the city streets, the reality of what had just happened began to sink in. They had been set up, and Sloane couldn’t help but wonder who was behind it all.
As Sloane and her companions arrived at the safe house, they scanned their surroundings for any sign of danger before entering. Once inside, they quickly secured the area, ensuring that they were not being followed or watched. Mariel's face lit up as she saw Sloane and the young raithe eagerly gave her a big hug, one filled with relief that everyone was safe at last. The two Blades who were already inside the safe house stepped forward to assist Nemura with her injuries, carefully tending to her wounds.
Tiberius let out a screech as soon as he caught sight of her, taking off and flying over. The bird gently landed on her shoulder and actually leaned against her.
It was both sweet and terrifying.
He’s becoming more and more lifelike…
As she stared at her falcon, she realized just how out of their depth the group was. Having a team of knights had made everything so much easier… Now, she was hiding in a safe house from some unknown group that was after them.
It may… be time to work on another for the menagerie.
Yimena was helped into a bed, and several of her bandages needed to be refreshed from overexertion causing her wounds to bleed.
When Sloane finally got a chance to sit down and relax two bells later, a knock sounded on the door.
She stood up, hand on the hilt of her sword, as Stefan moved to answer the door. It was the Blade who had spoken to them earlier, his face grave.
“Lady Reinhart, we have news,” the man said wearily as he saw her approach. “The council called an emergency meeting. The bay has been blockaded and the city’s reserves make way to the south to intercept an approaching Vlaredian army. All ships have been ordered to remain in port.”
Sloane's heart sank at the news.
Shit. Not again…
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Yemina's eyes fluttered open slowly, a groan escaping her lips as a wave of pain washed over her. She attempted to shift, but her body felt leaden and uncooperative. As her gaze swept the room, she found herself in unfamiliar surroundings–a small, sparsely furnished room with her lying on a bed.
A flicker of panic ignited within her.
With a grimace, she tried to push herself into a sitting position, but a searing pain lanced through her chest forcing a deep gasp to escape her.
Her hand instinctively clutched at the bandages encircling her torso, and as she did, it was then she noticed the raithe man seated at a small table in the corner of the room. His eyes were trained on her, a look of concern etched onto his features.
The raithe’s hair was white as Tenera’s moon but with a tinge of red tips that gave them the appearance of being dipped in blood, and his skin was pale, which made his bright red eyes stand out–he was attractive and appeared almost aristocratic in how he carried himself.
Some noble’s bastard maybe?
The man gave her a fanged smile, which would probably disarm even noblewomen. She, on the other hand, searched for a weapon as she tried to remember where she had seen him before.
Where am I?
Her mind was hazy, clouded by the pain and the drugs that must have been administered to her. She tried to speak, but her throat was dry and raw, and all that came out was a hoarse croak.
The man immediately stood up from his chair and walked over to her. “Easy, Yemina. You’re safe here,” he said softly, his voice gentle and calming. “You’re in a safe house with some… friends who are taking care of you.”
Yemina looked at him, feeling the confusion etching itself into her face. “Who… who are you? Why did you hesitate before saying friends?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper as her eyes continued to dart around looking for options.
The raithe’s expression softened and he lifted his hands up, keeping them visible. “My name is Stefan. We met in the alleyway. You were hurt, and I helped you get here. There are two members of the Blades Guild here. They’re trusted by the Guildmaster, but I haven’t met them before,” he explained.
Yemina frowned, trying to remember the events that had led to her being here, but all she could recall was the pain and thinking she’d failed. She looked down at herself, noticing the bandages around her arms and legs, in addition to her torso. “What… what happened to me?” she asked, her voice starting to waver as her memory seemed to fail her.
Stefan sighed and sat down on the edge of the bed. “I believe you were attacked by the others of the same group that attacked us. They ambushed you, but you managed to kill them all. Unfortunately, you were grievously injured and have been unconscious for three days now.”
“Who were they?” she asked slowly, her voice still raw.
Stefan stood up and quickly poured her a glass of water before returning to sit beside her.
“We don’t know who they were. They were after a young girl named Mariel, and they killed Vicori Fynn when he was supposed to meet with my liege and me,” he explained, helping her up and handing her the glass of water.
Yemina took the glass with a shaky hand and took a small sip, feeling the cool liquid soothe her dry throat. She closed her eyes, a wave of nausea washing over her as the memories started to resurface. She could feel tears prickling at the corners of her eyes, and she fought to keep them at bay.
The vicori.
Her eyes widened as her memories of the night slammed into her. The note.
“Your liege, who is it?” she croaked.
Stefan's expression became guarded at her question. “My liege is Lady Reinhart,” he said slowly, watching her closely for any signs of recognition or reaction.
Yemina's mind raced, trying to place the name. Lady Reinhart… why did it sound familiar? She felt a headache starting to form behind her eyes as she tried to remember. “Why were you meeting with Vicori Fynn?” she asked, hoping to get some answers that would jog her memory.
“There is a group of people after a young priestess-in-training. They call her an Avatar,” he explained. Her eyes went wide, realizing the implications immediately.
“Of which god?” she asked quietly, her voice slowly returning.
His face took on a pained look. “Tenera.”
Yemina gasped. There is potentially an Avatar of one of the Family walking amongst us?
He must have realized her reaction because he put a hand up.
“Wait, before you get all excited. Please allow me to explain, then I need your help. My liege’s life hangs in the balance,” he said seriously.
Yemina nodded slowly and winced as she pushed to sit up further in the bed.
Then the man spoke of mana and magic and Yemina found herself unable to look away.
Captain Meerin was having a bad week. Not only had he been completely unable to locate the source of the tip that had led them to the terran, but he believed he had found evidence of corruption in several offices of the Guard.
Not only that, but they had zero leads on where to find the terran noble’s other guard or members of the woman’s House. They had disappeared. The innkeeper only recalled receiving payment and a note regarding their departure the same night the Guard had apprehended the noblewoman.
It was infuriating.
He really disliked having been put in this position, but a simple Guard Captain did not dismiss the orders of a justicar.
Captain Meerin walked into the Justicar’s Hall and made his way to the man’s office. The city’s three Justicars each dictated the policy and actions of the Guard in addition to making judgments. Their role was the peace and safety of the city. The one he needed to see was responsible for handling the Guard’s external operations, including any conflicts with foreign entities or organizations that operated outside the city’s jurisdiction. It was why the case that involved a terran and the Church was seen by him.
The man’s personal guard opened the office door as he approached, allowing him to enter. Justicar Solen was seated at his desk, pouring over a stack of documents. He looked up as Captain Meerin entered, his expression betraying no emotion.
“What news do you bring?” he asked, his voice calm and measured.
“None good, I’m afraid,” Captain Meerin replied, feeling a sense of unease settle in his gut. “We have yet to find any solid leads on the whereabouts of the terran noble’s other guard or members of her House. Worse, I have found… inconsistencies in reports regarding the woman within the Guard itself.”
Justicar Solen’s expression did not change, but Captain Meerin could feel the man’s gaze weighing heavily upon him. “I see,” the Justicar said after a moment of silence. “And what is being done to investigate these matters?”
Captain Meerin cleared his throat. “I have assigned some of my most trusted officers to look into the inconsistencies. As for the missing persons, we are continuing to search the city and question anyone who may have seen or heard something. But so far, we have come up empty-handed.”
The old telv closed his eyes for three beats before opening them, the captain didn’t dare interrupt the silence.
“Prepare the Guard at the prison for a response from the Church,” the Justicar ordered. “I will speak to the council. In the meantime, you are to stop anyone except the Inquistorious from taking action. We will not go to war against the Holy Order. Not when…”
The captain tilted his head. “When what, your honor?”
Justicar Solen suddenly seemed much older.
“The Empire conquered the port of Cartaelk,” he said grimly. “Even now an army is moving north toward us. Our reserves are moving south to intercept them, but we are very soon about to be cut off from the rest of the Cities. The Gearldine Bay is officially under blockade. Our navy… suffered a setback and has retreated to the city for repairs.”
Captain Meerin's eyes widened in shock. He had heard rumors of where the Empire was moving, but he had never expected them to succeed. The Gearldine Bay was a vital trade route, and if it was under blockade, it would mean disaster for the city's economy. He knew that the Guard would need to act quickly if they were to protect the citizens from the chaos that would undoubtedly follow.
The Justicar continued, “Relena damn us, but this trial is not important. All that matters is that the Church does not make it worse for us. If they want the woman executed, that is what they’ll get. We must prioritize the defense of our city and our people. Inform the Guard to remain vigilant and prepare for any possible unrest. We cannot afford to lose the city to panic and chaos.”
Captain Meerin nodded, feeling the weight of the responsibility on his shoulders. His thoughts turned to the lack of any true evidence that would prove the terran’s guilt. He knew that the coming days would be difficult, but he would do everything in his power to protect his home and his people.
Even if it meant standing by while an innocent woman was condemned to death.
Spread throughout the bowels of the Swanbrook prison, a full company of the City Guard stood in strategic locations, fully armed and armored, as they assured that not only would their magical prisoner not escape judgment, but that anyone else wouldn’t try and force her death.
Sloane sat in the cell while Nemura slept. The women had spent the past three days in there, waiting. She sighed as she looked at the dimly lit cell walls, trying to keep herself occupied by counting the bricks. She had been through some rough situations since arriving, but being stuck in a cell with no idea what was going on outside was beginning to take its toll. She trusted Stefan would figure out something, but the waiting was nearly unbearable.
Nemura shifted in her sleep, causing Sloane to turn her attention to her friend. Nemura had been a constant presence during their imprisonment, offering words of encouragement and support. Sloane couldn't help but feel grateful for the telv's unwavering loyalty.
I have to make it up to her.
A bang at the door caused her to jerk in surprise. The small hatch opened and two bowls of gruel were shoved through and then closed again.
She sighed as Nemura groaned and sat up. “Time to eat?”
Sloane nodded. “Yup. I swear, I think I’m more liable to blow this place up because of the food than anything else.”
The woman gave her a tired huff of air.
“Don’t worry. I have faith in Stefan,” she said.
Sloane let out an exaggerated exhale. “Yeah… me too. We already missed that first ship, though.”
Nemura shrugged as she stood up and grabbed the two bowls, passing one to Sloane, before sitting next to her. “We’ll find another one.”
I hope so.
She took a small bite of the… thin porridge that tasted bland and chunky. It took all she had to choke it down.
One more day.
Stefan stole a glance at the sleeping form of Mariel before turning and looking at the two Blades that had been assigned to protect them by Guildmaster Cross.
“Keep her safe,” he said quietly.
The woman, a telv, nodded. “Of course, Stranca. We won’t let anything happen to her.”
He turned and looked at the paladin. Her armor was beat up, but she had spent all morning cleaning it as best as she could. She would not be good in a fight in her current condition, but he didn’t expect it to come to that.
“Are you ready?” he asked the sun elf.
Evocati Yemina nodded. “Yes. Let’s prevent your baroness from being executed. Then we need to get out of the city.”
His eyes widened. “You’re leaving?”
The woman gave him another nod. “Yes, the headquarters in Rosale needs to be warned of the traitors and to call an Inquisition. The girl needs protection while her status is ascertained. I have decided that I will join you.”
Stefan raised an eyebrow in surprise. He hadn't expected the Evocati to offer her aid, especially after what she had just been through. But he could see the determination in her eyes and knew that she wouldn't back down.
“Very well,” he said with a nod. “We could use all the help we can get.”
Yemina smiled weakly. “I'll do what I can.”
Stefan took a deep breath before opening the door to the safe house. The Blades stepped out first and made sure the area was clear before gesturing for him and Yemina to come out.
The streets of the city were teeming with people going about their daily business. Stefan walked next to the paladin who strode with all of the confidence that she could muster.
As they made their way towards the Justicar's Hall, Stefan noticed a group of Blades and guards from the Banking Guild waiting for them, along with a representative from each. The group appeared to be well-armed and prepared for whatever might come their way.
One of the Blades stepped forward and greeted them with a respectful bow. “Greetings, Blade Stranca. We have been sent by Guildmaster Cross to assist you in your mission.”
Stefan nodded in acknowledgment. “Thank you. We appreciate any help we can get.”
The representative from the Banking Guild spoke up next. “We are here to ensure the safety of the noblewoman. We cannot allow the Church to overstep their bounds and execute an innocent person, especially one with such importance to the Guilds.”
The two looked at the paladin at Stefan’s side hesitantly.
Yemina spoke up for the first time since they had left the safe house. “It isn’t the Church that is doing this. There are traitors in the Temple of Swanbrook. We need to act quickly. The longer we wait, the more likely it is that the High Priest will act against Lady Reinhart.”
The two representatives glanced at each other before the Blade smiled. “We are much more amenable to dealing with corrupt members working without authority. If we have mistress paladin’s aid and coverage, we will do what needs done.”
Yemina took a deep breath. “We will seek to subdue, but do not hesitate to defend yourselves. They killed one of the youngest of my Order, and my praetor is still missing. They will be judged.”
Stefan nodded in agreement. “Let's move out then.”
The group set off towards the Justicar's Hall, a determined look on their faces as they prepared for whatever challenges lay ahead.
Ressa looked at Alexi as the group moved south along the road out of the city. The man had set up a final roadblock to ensure the terran would not work with the city, but their presence had been requested by the southern commander after she had sent out one of her men to deliver a report.
The imperial army there apparently needed their help to head off a Sovereign force coming to relieve the city.
Ressa couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction as she thought about the chaos and destruction that was likely to follow in Swanbrook. She had found where the cult had been hidden and given them information on the woman. Ressa had also been surprised at the… reach the group held.
Alexi caught her gaze. “You alright, boss?”
Ressa smiled. “I am. This distraction to the south may prove fruitful in honing our abilities.”
Alexi nodded in agreement. “I hope so. Let’s put the terran out of our minds for the time being. Place our focus on helping the army that needs your magic, we will support you and improve our own abilities,” he said with conviction. “This will be good for us, a way for us to bounce back from Marketbol. The Reinhart issue is handled for now.”
Ressa smiled, feeling a sense of pride in her lieutenant’s loyalty and dedication. “Exactly. We have a job to do, and we’ll do it well. The Empire will be proud of our efforts.”
The group continued along the road, their spirits lifted by the knowledge that they would once again be directly serving the war efforts of the Empire. While Sloane Reinhart had been the first target in their extended mission, they hadn’t forgotten that it wasn’t just about the terran.
And as they marched onward, Ressa couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for what lay ahead.
Hunting Sovereign magic users supporting their armies. It will be good practice for when we return our attention to the terran.
Sloane and Nemura were marched back into the Justicar’s Hall in manacles, surrounded by a large group of heavily armed guards. As they entered the hall, Sloane noticed that the atmosphere had changed. The Justicar sat on his chair, but he had two guards to each side of him, each with spears held tensely.
In the area where the two women were being led stood Swanbrook’s high priest in his long robes with the holy symbol of the Church around his neck. The moon elf was protected by a large group of paladins in their red armor, their faces obscured by helmets.
Where had so many come from?
The guards escorted them to the prescribed point for those being judged, where their manacles were removed before a group of guards moved to stand between them and the paladins, led by the high elf Guard captain from before.
The Justicar looked uneasy. The old telv glanced between the high priest and his retinue and Sloane. She could tell that what was happening was weighing heavily on him. The unfortunate thing was she couldn’t blame the man. He had to choose between his people and giving her up to the Church.
She narrowed her eyes. On a hunch, she used [Mana Sight] and looked at the paladins. Her eyes widened as she saw the telltale signs of at least three casters within the group. The swirling of mana that poured into them was weak, but it meant that she and Nemura would have a more difficult time if they tried to escape.
Sloane glanced at the woman and caught the woman rolling her shoulders. It was her tell that she had used her abilities that increased her attributes at the cost of a constant stamina drain.
The woman was clearly prepared.
The justicar stood up from his seat. “Lady Reinhart. You have been accused of murdering a member of the Paladins of Alos, witnesses and evidence have pointed to this being the case. What say you to these charges?”
Sloane stood tall and confident, her gaze unwavering as she faced the Justicar. “I say that I am innocent of these charges and that the evidence and witnesses against me are either false or manipulated. I demand a fair trial and the opportunity to plead my case.”
The old telv let out a deep exhale and shook his head sadly. “I do not know how things are done where you are from, but the only trial you get is my judgment. If you have no proof of your innocence then you are guilty.”
She narrowed her eyes. “You have no evidence. If you did, you would flaunt it for all to see. All people should be considered innocent until proven guilty, but I see that corruption and cowardice run deep within this city.”
“This has gone long enough, Justicar,” the high priest called out. “The Church demands justice and the fury of Alos knows no bounds. Release the terran into our custody and we will be on our way.”
Sloane turned and faced the high priest, the man looking awfully confident surrounded by his paladins. “I am telling you right now, I will not be submitting to you or anyone else here for any further punishment.”
The moon elf high priest's expression turned into a snarl. “You are in no position to negotiate, terran. You will give us the location of the girl and come with us willingly, or we will take you by force and anyone who stands in our way will be considered enemies of the Church.”
The city guardsmen around her shuffled uncomfortably at the man’s remarks. The high elf captain’s hand moved to the hilt of his sword.
Sloane stood her ground, her hands balled into fists. “I will not be party to whatever you have going on in the Church. You will not get Mariel.”
The high priest’s face turned red with rage and he spun on the Justicar. “Make your judgment, Justicar.”
With a look of resignation, the man nodded. The tension in the room grew, and Sloane prepared herself to fight. She drew on her mana, pooling it within herself to cast as many spells as possible.
The door to the hall burst open and a large crowd of people entered. The guards shifted and drew their weapons, and Sloane’s eyes widened. Stefan was at the head of a large group of armed men and women, his arm wrapped around the waist of another paladin in battered red armor. The woman looked tired but determined as she scanned the room, her eyes narrowing as she took in the sight of the other paladins.
Sloane felt a wave of relief wash over her. Not all was lost it seemed.
“What is the meaning of this?” The Justicar bellowed. “Captain!”
The high elf captain nodded. “Halt! This is a private proceeding of judgment. Vacate the hall immediately.”
Stefan let go of the paladin and he joined two other men as they made their way down the aisle. “We have come as representatives of the Banking and Blades Guilds to protest this farce of a judgment,” her raithe guard stated.
The high priest scowled. “Unless the Guilds wish to make an enemy of the Church, you will stand down immediately.”
“The Guilds have no business here,” the Justicar stated. “This is a matter for the city.”
The more nicely dressed representative shook his head. “We disagree. The Banking Guild will not allow any harm to come to Lady Reinhart, by order of the Grandmaster, himself.”
“Then an Inquisition will be called upon the corrupt Banking Guild,” the High Priest said.
“No, there won’t,” a woman shouted. The paladin that Stefan had helped enter stepped out of the group of Blades and limped her way down the aisle. She drew her blade and pointed it at the high priest. “Because these are not paladins.”
The high priest’s eyes widened, but he didn’t skip a beat. “You are a traitor to the Order, Evocati. You–”
“You are hereby Judged, High Priest. By my authority as the highest remaining member of the Holy Order, I strip you of your status. You are to–”
As one, the false paladins drew their blades. The city's guardsmen started to round on them, but the lead paladin acted quickly. With a single, fluid motion, his sword pulsed with a flash of mana as he lunged forward and impaled the Guard Captain's chest through his armor.
Nemura moved. She yanked a sword from a stunned guard and did something because she was suddenly in front of Sloane, her sword stopping the lead imposter’s blade.
“Take them out!” Nemura yelled.
The Hall descended into chaos. The guards and paladins launched into combat with each other, and the Blades and guards from the Banking Guild rushed forward.
Sloane snap-fired a [Mana Bolt] at an approaching imposter only for the armor to seemingly absorb her magic. Her eyes widened and she fired a [Flashbang], the spell going off with a crack and flash of light.
Unfortunately, her spell did more harm than good as even the guardsmen cried out, but it appeared somehow the helmets the imposter paladins wore protected them. Four guards were cut down in seconds, and Nemura shoved Sloane back before launching herself at the paladin.
“Lady Reinhart!” a female voice called out.
Sloane turned and caught sight of one of the city’s guards holding a sword and a sack. Her sword.
She rushed over and recognized the high elf woman from when they were processed into the prison. “Why do you have these?” Sloane yelled as the battle raged on around them.
“The captain told me to have them, just in case!” the woman said as she handed Sloane her sword and reached into the bag, pulling out her watch. “I told you I’d keep it safe.”
Sloane nodded and grabbed the watch, slapping it onto her wrist. She turned and saw one of the paladins launch a spike of ice that caught the Justicar in the chest. The old telv went down with a cry of pain.
The high elf woman’s eyes widened in shock. “We have to stop them!”
Sloane nodded as she raised her hands and cast [Arcane Barrage]. The five arcane projectiles burst forward and slammed into a group of imposter paladins, each exploding with increasing effect as it overwhelmed whatever protection they had on their armor.
Nemura followed up with a series of swift strikes, taking out two more of the paladins before they could react, while Stefan weaved through more, cutting down a man before moving on to another.
The battle raged on, with the imposter paladins slowly being pushed back, but the city guard was taking heavy losses. Sloane saw one of the imposters, the ice magic user, casting spells that were causing the ground to freeze over, making it difficult for the guards and Blades to move.
She gritted her teeth and focused her mana, casting [Arcane Lance]. The beam of concentrated arcane power shot out and slammed into the ice magic user, the armor resisted for only a moment before the spell pierced through the man’s chest.
An imposter threw a burst of fire at a Blade, then used another spell that ignited it further as it hit the woman. The woman let loose a primal scream of pain as she was burned to death. The man turned and his hands started to burn again when suddenly the fire vanished in a flash of yellow mana.
The wounded paladin woman stepped forward, her hand raised and her eyes glowing yellow. The man tried to cast again, but the woman again did something, dispelling his fire.
She cast two [Mana Bolts] at the man, causing him to nearly fall over. Then Stefan appeared and stabbed into the weak points of the fire caster’s armor with his daggers.
The man tried to swing his blade behind him, but then Stefan pulled his long daggers out and stabbed again and twisted. The man fell as Stefan moved on.
Several other imposters turned their attention to her, and Sloane dodged their attacks as she weaved through the melee.
As she ran, she cast [Mana Bolt] at one of the imposters, hitting him in the chest and sending him stumbling back. She followed up with another [Arcane Barrage], channeling the spell as it spit forth its arcane fury, taking down two more of the imposters.
But she wasn't the only one using magic. One of the imposters was a healer, and Sloane could see him weaving spells to heal the wounded “paladins” as they slowly retreated toward one of the exits, surrounding the high priest. She knew they needed to take him out if they wanted to win this fight.
She rushed at the man, but the healer noticed her and tried to cast a spell. She altered her [Flashbang] and fired it. The changed spell hit the man square in the face and popped off in a dull ringing that vibrated the man’s armor, interrupting his concentration, and leaving him vulnerable. She weaved around an imposter fighting Nemura and brought a hand up to the healer’s chest. Sloane cast [Arcane Lance], taking him down before he could heal the frauds any further.
The tide of the battle had turned. Seeing that their healer was down, the imposters gave up any chance of winning and quickly retreated. The city guard and the Blades chased after the fleeing fighters, but Sloane just sagged in relief.
She looked around, seeing the price. The guard captain was dead, as was the Justicar. The remaining imposters had given the High Priest enough time to escape, but at least the fight was over.
And she was free.
Sloane breathed a sigh of relief as the chaos was finally over. The City Guard was starting to regroup under the direction of the high elf woman, and the Blades were checking on their wounded. She walked over to Stefan and Nemura, who was wounded but still standing.
“We did it,” Sloane said, a smile spreading across her face.
Nemura grinned. “We did. I… am going to need some work. One of the bastards got lucky and caught me on the side.”
“I have a place where we can tend to you,” Stefan said. “Mariel is there and safe. Yemina–the paladin that helped us–will be joining us.”
“Good,” Sloane said as she surveyed the scene. The high elf guardswoman caught her attention and gestured her over.
As Sloane approached, the woman took a deep breath, her expression tense. “Lady Reinhart, as the highest ranking guardsman present, I need you to…” She sighed before continuing, “With all due respect, I need you and your group to get the fuck out of here. I must regain control of the situation and assess our next course of action. While I may face consequences for this decision, I am hereby absolving you of all charges. However, we will need to have further discussions, so I urge you to remain in the city for the time being.”
Sloane nodded. “Understood. And, thank you.”
The woman gave her a weak smile. “No, thank you. While I am sure the council will try and blame you somehow for all of this, we would not have survived without you. Now, if you’ll excuse me.”
Sloane watched as the woman made her way toward the center of the chaos, barking orders at the remaining guardsmen.
Stefan placed a hand on her shoulder. “Let’s go. Let them do their job.” They turned and found the two representatives from the guilds approaching.
The Blade spoke first.
“Lady Reinhart, we will handle this. When we need you, we’ll come to find you. In the meantime, we suggest laying low,” the man implored her.
Sloane glanced at her people, Stefan moved to wrap his arm around the paladin again, while Nemura winced with a hand on her side.
“Okay, we’ll be in touch,” she said, giving one last look at the scene behind them.
As they made their way through the city streets, the reality of what had just happened began to sink in. They had been set up, and Sloane couldn’t help but wonder who was behind it all.
As Sloane and her companions arrived at the safe house, they scanned their surroundings for any sign of danger before entering. Once inside, they quickly secured the area, ensuring that they were not being followed or watched. Mariel's face lit up as she saw Sloane and the young raithe eagerly gave her a big hug, one filled with relief that everyone was safe at last. The two Blades who were already inside the safe house stepped forward to assist Nemura with her injuries, carefully tending to her wounds.
Tiberius let out a screech as soon as he caught sight of her, taking off and flying over. The bird gently landed on her shoulder and actually leaned against her.
It was both sweet and terrifying.
He’s becoming more and more lifelike…
As she stared at her falcon, she realized just how out of their depth the group was. Having a team of knights had made everything so much easier… Now, she was hiding in a safe house from some unknown group that was after them.
It may… be time to work on another for the menagerie.
Yimena was helped into a bed, and several of her bandages needed to be refreshed from overexertion causing her wounds to bleed.
When Sloane finally got a chance to sit down and relax two bells later, a knock sounded on the door.
She stood up, hand on the hilt of her sword, as Stefan moved to answer the door. It was the Blade who had spoken to them earlier, his face grave.
“Lady Reinhart, we have news,” the man said wearily as he saw her approach. “The council called an emergency meeting. The bay has been blockaded and the city’s reserves make way to the south to intercept an approaching Vlaredian army. All ships have been ordered to remain in port.”
Sloane's heart sank at the news.
Shit. Not again…
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