Chapter 120: Venturing Food
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Chapter 120: Venturing Food
Tala left the Constructionist Guild feeling conflicted. Jevin had helped her, but he wasodd. All the older Mages Ive met are odd, though
She would be meeting up with him the following day to meld Flow with the glaive, but she wasnt sure that she wanted to see him after that. Being able to train myself against a Paragon, though The level of control and resistance he could offer would be unlike most others she could work with.
An old proverb came to mind: When training the sword, find a master. Though, in truth, shed heard the sword replaced with all sorts of things. More a format, than a true saying, I suppose.
Tala decided to walk down the spiral to let herself have some time to contemplate. I can climb up a pedestrian tube when Im to the south. Ill avoid the market that way, too.
The trip down the 6 oclock spiral was uneventful, and she found the Up pedestrian ladder without issue. A short climb brought her to 12 oclock, south and a Culinary Guild office.
She squared her shoulders, put a smile on her face, and strode in.
The brush of magic moved over her as she entered, and a chime sounded from within the space. If Tala had to put an emotion to the sound, it would be one of cautious alarm.
An attendant immediately bustled out from a side room to intercept her. Mistress? Did a courier miss a delivery or payment?
Tala frowned at the man. No? I just had some questions for a guild official.
Apologies, but Mages are not permitted within Culinary facilities unless specifically invited or seeking restitution. If no delivery or payment has been missed. I must, respectfully, ask you to leave. We will gladly accept any inquiry via courier.
Tala was almost stunned into inaction, but she had slightly expected something like this. Instead of responding, she pulled out her iron medallion. The coin bore the deeply inset relief of a scythe.
It had been given to her by Brand in order to identify her as in the know. And as an apology for attempting to stab me in the heart
I would really like to speak to someone of authority.
The assistant hesitantly took the coin, examining it closely. Where he swallowed involuntarily, his voice barely above a whisper, where did you get this?
From the head chef on a caravan venture. It was voluntarily given and gratefully received.
He gave her a long look, then nodded. I willI will see if the branch head can see you.
Tala gave a partial bow in thanks, but he was already gone.
Well, Im in it now.
There were several notable sounds from the back rooms, and Tala tried not to overhear. It wasnt hard, given the number of walls between her and the raised voices. She likely couldnt have heard details even if shed tried.
A moment later, an older man strode out into the entry hall. He wore expensive clothes and clearly was a figure of importance, here.
The assistant hung back, walking behind and to his bosss left.
Tala opened her mouth to greet the man, but he cut across her.
Im not sure what your game is here, Mistress. He flicked the medallion her way.
Tala caught it from the air, examining it for a moment to ensure it was the same one. At least of the same kind.
The Inter-Guild accords are clear, and you havent been invited.
Then, I am requesting an invitation.
Request denied.
Tala gave the man a flat look. May I at least have the name of my denier? I am called Tala.
He hesitated, then seemed to decide it wasnt worth refusing. I am Wannor. I do not wish to be rude, Mistress, but you are treading near many violations. You must leave if requested to do so. We have.
Then, invite me to stay. The problem will be solved.
He glowered. I will not.
Tala let out an irritated breath. Dont you want to know why Im here?
No.
Are you rusting serious? Or where I got the medallion?
No.
Fine then; lets poke the bear. Or how much arcanous meat Ive eaten?
Wannor hesitated. Why would I want to know that?N0v3lRealm was the platform where this chapter was initially revealed on N0v3l.B1n.
Tala held up the coin. Because of this!
No Im genuinely curious. Why the rust would I care how much you eat?
Tala opened her mouth, then paused. Well that probably doesnt really factor indoes it? Fine. That wasnt really the point.
Wannors features scrunched in irritation. I dont know what you know. I dont really want to. I have six caravans leaving in the next three days, and I need to finalize the manifests and He trailed off, shaking his head. Im not going to justify myself to you. He locked gazes with her. Please, go whatever it is youre here for, do it somewhere else.
Tala opened her mouth to argue further, but finally just shook her head. Fine.
Wannor smiled.
Ill leave. She didnt turn. Maybe Im being a bit mean
His smile slipped just slightly, but he made a visible effort to maintain it.
Im departing. She hadnt moved. Still, hes been very rude.
He lost the struggle, and his expression became blank once more.
Ill gojust as soon as I know where I should go to. Where can I talk with someone from this Guild?
Wannors eye began to twitch.
Tala stood there, smiling.
He grimaced, then sighed. Fine. Go to the Guild reception on the fifth floor. Theyll have more time for your foolishness. Without another word, or backward glance, he turned and strode from the room.
Well, thats something I suppose. She shook her head. Have a good day!
She didnt listen too closely to his response, but if she interpreted the tone correctly, it was filled with imaginative curses.
She had just left the building, and started walking away and upward, when an imposing figure stepped out after her.
She glanced back, taking in the mans appearance. He might be taller than Rane.
He towered over her. His hair was a smooth black, and he had a beard that almost caused her jaw to drop. It went down nearly to the mans waist, and it was skillfully braided in complex patterns, taming the otherwise voluminous locks.
His clothes were simple, but clean, and he had an apron over one shoulder. Mistress Tala, was it?
As you wish, Mistress Tala.
Tala felt her eye twitch but didnt press the issue. So?
Honestly, I am unsure how to reply. To speak with you, directly, violates our Guild charter, but since you bear a medallion, to turn you away would similarly breach procedure.
I apologize for putting you in such a difficult position. Will there be repercussions?
Honestly? Probably not. But if someone decides to make a play at replacing me, they could try to get me removed. That was assured as soon as you showed up.
Tala frowned. Wannor, down on the third tier, sent me up here. Would that factor in?
Atrela sighed. It just might. Thank you for that warning. You said he sent you? Did he meet with you personally to do so?
He did.
Atrela nodded thoughtfully but didnt comment.
So I am aware that the Order of the Harvest has a very poor history with Mages, and I assume that the Culinary Guild is the public face of that order?
Quite correct.
Honest of her. If I may askwhy havent you approached more Mages through the years? You are a powerful guild, after all.
Atrelas mouth quirked into a small smile. We have, Mistress. Every ten to twenty years, we ask for an unaffiliated volunteer to present our ideas to the local Archon counsel, or the Constructionist Guild, or some individual Mage or Archon. The response is always the same: That is not for you to pursue. Drop it, immediately.
Tala frowned. That didnt seem right What if I were to take and present it?
The woman leaned back, considering. After a long moment, she poured herself some coffee and took a careful sip. That would certainly be different.
I am unaffiliated. Id meet that requirement.
Atrela let out a short, soft chuckle. True enough. I cannot authorize this, however, not on my authority alone. I can propose it to the Guild counsel. Would you be willing to keep the Guild and the Order out of it?
Yes? I dont want to lie, but I can obfuscate.
That is acceptable, so long as you are willing to refuse to answer about certain things.
Im open to that.
Atrela nodded. That could work. Weve never worked directly with a Mage before. She hesitated. Well, not openly and not on this side of things.
Tala frowned. I find that very unlikely.
Oh? The other woman seemed genuinely confused.
Has no member of the Order ever had a child who grew up to become a Mage?
Of course, we have. One of my sons, and three of my aunts are Mages.
So?
We are barred from discussing it with them, or anyone who is not of the Order. We dont admit any minors to the Order, so none ever become Mages after admittance.
That seems foolish.
Atrela gave Tala a pointed look. If I told you that we were studying and enacting necromancy within this building, and you believed me, what would you do?
Thats hardly-
Atrela cut across Tala. What would you do, Mistress?
Tala paused to consider. Academy doctrine was to kill them all, then hunt down anyone they had ties to and kill them as well.
If she did that, shed probably be rewarded. No, a law-abiding Mage should report it to the local council and then return with reinforcements, so that no one could escape. But that didnt answer the question. What would she do?
Tala frowned. Necromancy. The animating of dead flesh. That portion was a bit gross, but hardly that immoral. Disrespectful, though. Even so, it wasnt actually outlawed. Working with the souls of the dead, however, that was utterly forbidden. Does that include founts?
Tala hadnt actually considered that association. Could every arcanous beast be considered the product of necromancy?
That had disturbing implications.
She glanced to Terry, who was clearly listening with interest, despite his closed eyes.
So, what would I do? I would clarify what type of necromancy you meant.
Mistress Tala. You know what-
Tala held up her hand. I wasnt finished. I do see your point, Atrela. If it was the forbidden kind, if I even suspected the forbidden form, I would burn this place to the ground. She hesitated, looking around at the wood and considering the tree around them. Well, not literally. That would probably end badly.
Atrela quirked a smile. Precisely. Mages do not respond gently to those pursuing forbidden knowledge or practices.
Theres good reasonfor most of it anyways. And you feel that youve been told the consumption of harvests falls into that category.
From the best of our understanding, it does.
But it doesnt! At least she didnt think it did. Am I willing to risk thousands of peoples lives on my assumption? After thinking for a long moment, she realized that she wasnt. Very well. I will bow to whatever the Culinary Guild decides. I dont like it, but I wont pull back the curtain from your Order without permission.
Atrela visibly relaxed. Thank you, Mistress. I hope that we dont put you in any awkward positions because of this.
Tala shook her head. Im already seen as a bit of an oddball. I doubt Ill be pressed too closely about anything I ask or attempt.
Atrela gave her a skeptical look but didnt comment on that. Very well. So, you mentioned venture supplies?
Yes. I would like food and equipment to carry in my dimensional storage, so that I can always have food ready at hand.
They briefly discussed Talas available resources, and the conversation actually went quite quickly, given it was a mirror of the one shed had with Sarenor on the walk up.
I think I can put together some things for you. What is your budget?
It depends a bit on how much food you can get me, but a gold or two?
That is considerable for such things.
I eat a lot of food.
So youve said. Atrela was smiling. Very well. I will see it done. Would you be willing to return in three days to discuss your offer and pick up your food?
That sounds perfect. Thank you.
No, Mistress Tala. Thank you. I cannot express the stress I feel in the presence of any Mage. Even your offer to potentially alleviate that is valuable beyond what I can express.
Tala gave a seated bow. I am glad to be able to help.
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Chapter 120: Venturing Food
Tala left the Constructionist Guild feeling conflicted. Jevin had helped her, but he wasodd. All the older Mages Ive met are odd, though
She would be meeting up with him the following day to meld Flow with the glaive, but she wasnt sure that she wanted to see him after that. Being able to train myself against a Paragon, though The level of control and resistance he could offer would be unlike most others she could work with.
An old proverb came to mind: When training the sword, find a master. Though, in truth, shed heard the sword replaced with all sorts of things. More a format, than a true saying, I suppose.
Tala decided to walk down the spiral to let herself have some time to contemplate. I can climb up a pedestrian tube when Im to the south. Ill avoid the market that way, too.
The trip down the 6 oclock spiral was uneventful, and she found the Up pedestrian ladder without issue. A short climb brought her to 12 oclock, south and a Culinary Guild office.
She squared her shoulders, put a smile on her face, and strode in.
The brush of magic moved over her as she entered, and a chime sounded from within the space. If Tala had to put an emotion to the sound, it would be one of cautious alarm.
An attendant immediately bustled out from a side room to intercept her. Mistress? Did a courier miss a delivery or payment?
Tala frowned at the man. No? I just had some questions for a guild official.
Apologies, but Mages are not permitted within Culinary facilities unless specifically invited or seeking restitution. If no delivery or payment has been missed. I must, respectfully, ask you to leave. We will gladly accept any inquiry via courier.
Tala was almost stunned into inaction, but she had slightly expected something like this. Instead of responding, she pulled out her iron medallion. The coin bore the deeply inset relief of a scythe.
It had been given to her by Brand in order to identify her as in the know. And as an apology for attempting to stab me in the heart
I would really like to speak to someone of authority.
The assistant hesitantly took the coin, examining it closely. Where he swallowed involuntarily, his voice barely above a whisper, where did you get this?
From the head chef on a caravan venture. It was voluntarily given and gratefully received.
He gave her a long look, then nodded. I willI will see if the branch head can see you.
Tala gave a partial bow in thanks, but he was already gone.
Well, Im in it now.
There were several notable sounds from the back rooms, and Tala tried not to overhear. It wasnt hard, given the number of walls between her and the raised voices. She likely couldnt have heard details even if shed tried.
A moment later, an older man strode out into the entry hall. He wore expensive clothes and clearly was a figure of importance, here.
The assistant hung back, walking behind and to his bosss left.
Tala opened her mouth to greet the man, but he cut across her.
Im not sure what your game is here, Mistress. He flicked the medallion her way.
Tala caught it from the air, examining it for a moment to ensure it was the same one. At least of the same kind.
The Inter-Guild accords are clear, and you havent been invited.
Then, I am requesting an invitation.
Request denied.
Tala gave the man a flat look. May I at least have the name of my denier? I am called Tala.
He hesitated, then seemed to decide it wasnt worth refusing. I am Wannor. I do not wish to be rude, Mistress, but you are treading near many violations. You must leave if requested to do so. We have.
Then, invite me to stay. The problem will be solved.
He glowered. I will not.
Tala let out an irritated breath. Dont you want to know why Im here?
No.
Are you rusting serious? Or where I got the medallion?
No.
Fine then; lets poke the bear. Or how much arcanous meat Ive eaten?
Wannor hesitated. Why would I want to know that?N0v3lRealm was the platform where this chapter was initially revealed on N0v3l.B1n.
Tala held up the coin. Because of this!
No Im genuinely curious. Why the rust would I care how much you eat?
Tala opened her mouth, then paused. Well that probably doesnt really factor indoes it? Fine. That wasnt really the point.
Wannors features scrunched in irritation. I dont know what you know. I dont really want to. I have six caravans leaving in the next three days, and I need to finalize the manifests and He trailed off, shaking his head. Im not going to justify myself to you. He locked gazes with her. Please, go whatever it is youre here for, do it somewhere else.
Tala opened her mouth to argue further, but finally just shook her head. Fine.
Wannor smiled.
Ill leave. She didnt turn. Maybe Im being a bit mean
His smile slipped just slightly, but he made a visible effort to maintain it.
Im departing. She hadnt moved. Still, hes been very rude.
He lost the struggle, and his expression became blank once more.
Ill gojust as soon as I know where I should go to. Where can I talk with someone from this Guild?
Wannors eye began to twitch.
Tala stood there, smiling.
He grimaced, then sighed. Fine. Go to the Guild reception on the fifth floor. Theyll have more time for your foolishness. Without another word, or backward glance, he turned and strode from the room.
Well, thats something I suppose. She shook her head. Have a good day!
She didnt listen too closely to his response, but if she interpreted the tone correctly, it was filled with imaginative curses.
She had just left the building, and started walking away and upward, when an imposing figure stepped out after her.
She glanced back, taking in the mans appearance. He might be taller than Rane.
He towered over her. His hair was a smooth black, and he had a beard that almost caused her jaw to drop. It went down nearly to the mans waist, and it was skillfully braided in complex patterns, taming the otherwise voluminous locks.
His clothes were simple, but clean, and he had an apron over one shoulder. Mistress Tala, was it?
As you wish, Mistress Tala.
Tala felt her eye twitch but didnt press the issue. So?
Honestly, I am unsure how to reply. To speak with you, directly, violates our Guild charter, but since you bear a medallion, to turn you away would similarly breach procedure.
I apologize for putting you in such a difficult position. Will there be repercussions?
Honestly? Probably not. But if someone decides to make a play at replacing me, they could try to get me removed. That was assured as soon as you showed up.
Tala frowned. Wannor, down on the third tier, sent me up here. Would that factor in?
Atrela sighed. It just might. Thank you for that warning. You said he sent you? Did he meet with you personally to do so?
He did.
Atrela nodded thoughtfully but didnt comment.
So I am aware that the Order of the Harvest has a very poor history with Mages, and I assume that the Culinary Guild is the public face of that order?
Quite correct.
Honest of her. If I may askwhy havent you approached more Mages through the years? You are a powerful guild, after all.
Atrelas mouth quirked into a small smile. We have, Mistress. Every ten to twenty years, we ask for an unaffiliated volunteer to present our ideas to the local Archon counsel, or the Constructionist Guild, or some individual Mage or Archon. The response is always the same: That is not for you to pursue. Drop it, immediately.
Tala frowned. That didnt seem right What if I were to take and present it?
The woman leaned back, considering. After a long moment, she poured herself some coffee and took a careful sip. That would certainly be different.
I am unaffiliated. Id meet that requirement.
Atrela let out a short, soft chuckle. True enough. I cannot authorize this, however, not on my authority alone. I can propose it to the Guild counsel. Would you be willing to keep the Guild and the Order out of it?
Yes? I dont want to lie, but I can obfuscate.
That is acceptable, so long as you are willing to refuse to answer about certain things.
Im open to that.
Atrela nodded. That could work. Weve never worked directly with a Mage before. She hesitated. Well, not openly and not on this side of things.
Tala frowned. I find that very unlikely.
Oh? The other woman seemed genuinely confused.
Has no member of the Order ever had a child who grew up to become a Mage?
Of course, we have. One of my sons, and three of my aunts are Mages.
So?
We are barred from discussing it with them, or anyone who is not of the Order. We dont admit any minors to the Order, so none ever become Mages after admittance.
That seems foolish.
Atrela gave Tala a pointed look. If I told you that we were studying and enacting necromancy within this building, and you believed me, what would you do?
Thats hardly-
Atrela cut across Tala. What would you do, Mistress?
Tala paused to consider. Academy doctrine was to kill them all, then hunt down anyone they had ties to and kill them as well.
If she did that, shed probably be rewarded. No, a law-abiding Mage should report it to the local council and then return with reinforcements, so that no one could escape. But that didnt answer the question. What would she do?
Tala frowned. Necromancy. The animating of dead flesh. That portion was a bit gross, but hardly that immoral. Disrespectful, though. Even so, it wasnt actually outlawed. Working with the souls of the dead, however, that was utterly forbidden. Does that include founts?
Tala hadnt actually considered that association. Could every arcanous beast be considered the product of necromancy?
That had disturbing implications.
She glanced to Terry, who was clearly listening with interest, despite his closed eyes.
So, what would I do? I would clarify what type of necromancy you meant.
Mistress Tala. You know what-
Tala held up her hand. I wasnt finished. I do see your point, Atrela. If it was the forbidden kind, if I even suspected the forbidden form, I would burn this place to the ground. She hesitated, looking around at the wood and considering the tree around them. Well, not literally. That would probably end badly.
Atrela quirked a smile. Precisely. Mages do not respond gently to those pursuing forbidden knowledge or practices.
Theres good reasonfor most of it anyways. And you feel that youve been told the consumption of harvests falls into that category.
From the best of our understanding, it does.
But it doesnt! At least she didnt think it did. Am I willing to risk thousands of peoples lives on my assumption? After thinking for a long moment, she realized that she wasnt. Very well. I will bow to whatever the Culinary Guild decides. I dont like it, but I wont pull back the curtain from your Order without permission.
Atrela visibly relaxed. Thank you, Mistress. I hope that we dont put you in any awkward positions because of this.
Tala shook her head. Im already seen as a bit of an oddball. I doubt Ill be pressed too closely about anything I ask or attempt.
Atrela gave her a skeptical look but didnt comment on that. Very well. So, you mentioned venture supplies?
Yes. I would like food and equipment to carry in my dimensional storage, so that I can always have food ready at hand.
They briefly discussed Talas available resources, and the conversation actually went quite quickly, given it was a mirror of the one shed had with Sarenor on the walk up.
I think I can put together some things for you. What is your budget?
It depends a bit on how much food you can get me, but a gold or two?
That is considerable for such things.
I eat a lot of food.
So youve said. Atrela was smiling. Very well. I will see it done. Would you be willing to return in three days to discuss your offer and pick up your food?
That sounds perfect. Thank you.
No, Mistress Tala. Thank you. I cannot express the stress I feel in the presence of any Mage. Even your offer to potentially alleviate that is valuable beyond what I can express.
Tala gave a seated bow. I am glad to be able to help.
Chapter 120: Venturing FoodTala left the Constructionist Guild feeling conflicted. Jevin had helped her, but he wasodd. All the older Mages Ive met are odd, thoughShe would be meeting up with him the following day to meld Flow with the glaive, but she wasnt sure that she wanted to see him after that. Being able to train myself against a Paragon, though The level of control and resistance he could offer would be unlike most others she could work with.An old proverb came to mind: When training the sword, find a master. Though, in truth, shed heard the sword replaced with all sorts of things. More a format, than a true saying, I suppose.Tala decided to walk down the spiral to let herself have some time to contemplate. I can climb up a pedestrian tube when Im to the south. Ill avoid the market that way, too.The trip down the 6 oclock spiral was uneventful, and she found the Up pedestrian ladder without issue. A short climb brought her to 12 oclock, south and a Culinary Guild office.She squared her shoulders, put a smile on her face, and strode in.The brush of magic moved over her as she entered, and a chime sounded from within the space. If Tala had to put an emotion to the sound, it would be one of cautious alarm.An attendant immediately bustled out from a side room to intercept her. Mistress? Did a courier miss a delivery or payment?Tala frowned at the man. No? I just had some questions for a guild official.Apologies, but Mages are not permitted within Culinary facilities unless specifically invited or seeking restitution. If no delivery or payment has been missed. I must, respectfully, ask you to leave. We will gladly accept any inquiry via courier.Tala was almost stunned into inaction, but she had slightly expected something like this. Instead of responding, she pulled out her iron medallion. The coin bore the deeply inset relief of a scythe.It had been given to her by Brand in order to identify her as in the know. And as an apology for attempting to stab me in the heartI would really like to speak to someone of authority.The assistant hesitantly took the coin, examining it closely. Where he swallowed involuntarily, his voice barely above a whisper, where did you get this?From the head chef on a caravan venture. It was voluntarily given and gratefully received.He gave her a long look, then nodded. I willI will see if the branch head can see you.Tala gave a partial bow in thanks, but he was already gone.Well, Im in it now.There were several notable sounds from the back rooms, and Tala tried not to overhear. It wasnt hard, given the number of walls between her and the raised voices. She likely couldnt have heard details even if shed tried.A moment later, an older man strode out into the entry hall. He wore expensive clothes and clearly was a figure of importance, here.The assistant hung back, walking behind and to his bosss left.Tala opened her mouth to greet the man, but he cut across her.Im not sure what your game is here, Mistress. He flicked the medallion her way.Tala caught it from the air, examining it for a moment to ensure it was the same one. At least of the same kind.The Inter-Guild accords are clear, and you havent been invited.Then, I am requesting an invitation.Request denied.Tala gave the man a flat look. May I at least have the name of my denier? I am called Tala.He hesitated, then seemed to decide it wasnt worth refusing. I am Wannor. I do not wish to be rude, Mistress, but you are treading near many violations. You must leave if requested to do so. We have.Then, invite me to stay. The problem will be solved.He glowered. I will not.Tala let out an irritated breath. Dont you want to know why Im here?No.Are you rusting serious? Or where I got the medallion?No.Fine then; lets poke the bear. Or how much arcanous meat Ive eaten?Wannor hesitated. Why would I want to know that?N0v3lRealm was the platform where this chapter was initially revealed on N0v3l.B1n.Tala held up the coin. Because of this!No Im genuinely curious. Why the rust would I care how much you eat?Tala opened her mouth, then paused. Well that probably doesnt really factor indoes it? Fine. That wasnt really the point.Wannors features scrunched in irritation. I dont know what you know. I dont really want to. I have six caravans leaving in the next three days, and I need to finalize the manifests and He trailed off, shaking his head. Im not going to justify myself to you. He locked gazes with her. Please, go whatever it is youre here for, do it somewhere else.Tala opened her mouth to argue further, but finally just shook her head. Fine.Wannor smiled.Ill leave. She didnt turn. Maybe Im being a bit meanHis smile slipped just slightly, but he made a visible effort to maintain it.Im departing. She hadnt moved. Still, hes been very rude.He lost the struggle, and his expression became blank once more.Ill gojust as soon as I know where I should go to. Where can I talk with someone from this Guild?Wannors eye began to twitch.Tala stood there, smiling.He grimaced, then sighed. Fine. Go to the Guild reception on the fifth floor. Theyll have more time for your foolishness. Without another word, or backward glance, he turned and strode from the room.Well, thats something I suppose. She shook her head. Have a good day!She didnt listen too closely to his response, but if she interpreted the tone correctly, it was filled with imaginative curses.She had just left the building, and started walking away and upward, when an imposing figure stepped out after her.She glanced back, taking in the mans appearance. He might be taller than Rane.He towered over her. His hair was a smooth black, and he had a beard that almost caused her jaw to drop. It went down nearly to the mans waist, and it was skillfully braided in complex patterns, taming the otherwise voluminous locks.His clothes were simple, but clean, and he had an apron over one shoulder. Mistress Tala, was it?As you wish, Mistress Tala.Tala felt her eye twitch but didnt press the issue. So?Honestly, I am unsure how to reply. To speak with you, directly, violates our Guild charter, but since you bear a medallion, to turn you away would similarly breach procedure.I apologize for putting you in such a difficult position. Will there be repercussions?Honestly? Probably not. But if someone decides to make a play at replacing me, they could try to get me removed. That was assured as soon as you showed up.Tala frowned. Wannor, down on the third tier, sent me up here. Would that factor in?Atrela sighed. It just might. Thank you for that warning. You said he sent you? Did he meet with you personally to do so?He did.Atrela nodded thoughtfully but didnt comment.So I am aware that the Order of the Harvest has a very poor history with Mages, and I assume that the Culinary Guild is the public face of that order?Quite correct.Honest of her. If I may askwhy havent you approached more Mages through the years? You are a powerful guild, after all.Atrelas mouth quirked into a small smile. We have, Mistress. Every ten to twenty years, we ask for an unaffiliated volunteer to present our ideas to the local Archon counsel, or the Constructionist Guild, or some individual Mage or Archon. The response is always the same: That is not for you to pursue. Drop it, immediately. Tala frowned. That didnt seem right What if I were to take and present it?The woman leaned back, considering. After a long moment, she poured herself some coffee and took a careful sip. That would certainly be different.I am unaffiliated. Id meet that requirement.Atrela let out a short, soft chuckle. True enough. I cannot authorize this, however, not on my authority alone. I can propose it to the Guild counsel. Would you be willing to keep the Guild and the Order out of it?Yes? I dont want to lie, but I can obfuscate.That is acceptable, so long as you are willing to refuse to answer about certain things.Im open to that.Atrela nodded. That could work. Weve never worked directly with a Mage before. She hesitated. Well, not openly and not on this side of things.Tala frowned. I find that very unlikely.Oh? The other woman seemed genuinely confused.Has no member of the Order ever had a child who grew up to become a Mage?Of course, we have. One of my sons, and three of my aunts are Mages.So?We are barred from discussing it with them, or anyone who is not of the Order. We dont admit any minors to the Order, so none ever become Mages after admittance.That seems foolish.Atrela gave Tala a pointed look. If I told you that we were studying and enacting necromancy within this building, and you believed me, what would you do?Thats hardly-Atrela cut across Tala. What would you do, Mistress?Tala paused to consider. Academy doctrine was to kill them all, then hunt down anyone they had ties to and kill them as well.If she did that, shed probably be rewarded. No, a law-abiding Mage should report it to the local council and then return with reinforcements, so that no one could escape. But that didnt answer the question. What would she do?Tala frowned. Necromancy. The animating of dead flesh. That portion was a bit gross, but hardly that immoral. Disrespectful, though. Even so, it wasnt actually outlawed. Working with the souls of the dead, however, that was utterly forbidden. Does that include founts?Tala hadnt actually considered that association. Could every arcanous beast be considered the product of necromancy?That had disturbing implications.She glanced to Terry, who was clearly listening with interest, despite his closed eyes.So, what would I do? I would clarify what type of necromancy you meant.Mistress Tala. You know what-Tala held up her hand. I wasnt finished. I do see your point, Atrela. If it was the forbidden kind, if I even suspected the forbidden form, I would burn this place to the ground. She hesitated, looking around at the wood and considering the tree around them. Well, not literally. That would probably end badly.Atrela quirked a smile. Precisely. Mages do not respond gently to those pursuing forbidden knowledge or practices.Theres good reasonfor most of it anyways. And you feel that youve been told the consumption of harvests falls into that category.From the best of our understanding, it does.But it doesnt! At least she didnt think it did. Am I willing to risk thousands of peoples lives on my assumption? After thinking for a long moment, she realized that she wasnt. Very well. I will bow to whatever the Culinary Guild decides. I dont like it, but I wont pull back the curtain from your Order without permission.Atrela visibly relaxed. Thank you, Mistress. I hope that we dont put you in any awkward positions because of this.Tala shook her head. Im already seen as a bit of an oddball. I doubt Ill be pressed too closely about anything I ask or attempt.Atrela gave her a skeptical look but didnt comment on that. Very well. So, you mentioned venture supplies?Yes. I would like food and equipment to carry in my dimensional storage, so that I can always have food ready at hand.They briefly discussed Talas available resources, and the conversation actually went quite quickly, given it was a mirror of the one shed had with Sarenor on the walk up.I think I can put together some things for you. What is your budget?It depends a bit on how much food you can get me, but a gold or two?That is considerable for such things.I eat a lot of food.So youve said. Atrela was smiling. Very well. I will see it done. Would you be willing to return in three days to discuss your offer and pick up your food?That sounds perfect. Thank you.No, Mistress Tala. Thank you. I cannot express the stress I feel in the presence of any Mage. Even your offer to potentially alleviate that is valuable beyond what I can express.Tala gave a seated bow. I am glad to be able to help.
