Chapter 183: Embarrassing for Everyone
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Chapter 183: Embarrassing for Everyone
As Tala and Rane were leaving the training complex, Tala remembered that shed promised to be at the Guardsmens training area the next day, and Aummar was even going out of his way to prepare some special things for her and Terry. Now, she wouldnt be there.
Ahh, rust. That could have been bad.
-Agreed.-
So, with that realization, she walked over to the front desk where a young woman was reading a book.
What book is that? She was able to catch enough of a look at it that Alat could extrapolate.
-Its either, How to Become a Mage without the Academy, or How to Seduce a Mage, Academically.-
Tala almost choked. Those are nothing alike!
-Well, take a better look, then. Its at an extreme angle.-
Wait is the second one actually a real book?
-Of-
Tala cut across Alat. Never mind! I dont want to know. She pushed that aside, hopefully permanently. Excuse me.
Yes, Mistress? The woman closed the book and set it title side down, before she glanced up and then frowned slightly. Despite her confusion, she didnt comment further, instead waiting for Tala to make her inquiry.
Tala assumed that the womans difficulty came from this being a for-Mages facility. While mundanes werent barred by any means, there wasnt much that would be useful to them there, generally speaking.
My lack of visible inscriptions is a bit annoying. She felt like Jenna would have known that, and they could have made the item with that in mind, but she was letting herself get distracted. Could I send a messenger from here? If not, do you know a close location that could take it.
The clerk looked to be about to give some negative response, but then her eyes moved over Terry on Talas shoulder and to Rane, before returning to Tala, her entire demeanor shifting. It seemed that whether or not Tala was a Mage didnt really matter, as she kept the company of Mages. We can do that for you for a small fee.
As that was reasonable, Tala composed a short message for Aummar and asked for it to be delivered to that specific Guardsman Training Ground as soon as possible.
It cost a half a silver but saved her the trip. And the possibility of me forgetting or getting distracted.
-I think I sense personal growth.-
Tala decided it was best to not engage.
Alat laughed in the back of Talas mind.
The message taken care of, Tala thanked the clerk and departed with Rane and Terry in tow.
They discussed the days training along with other small things as they trudged through the slush.
With no new snow added in the last bit, the existing stuff had been trampled and dirtied to the point of becoming slushy black-brown mess.
Thisthis I dont like. It was a part of the less pleasant side of winter, and Tala was grateful for both her shoes, which she had quickly grown on, and for her weight distribution scripts, which helped keep her from sinking into the dark filth. When she glanced behind herself, she did see a series of shallow, circular prints leading away behind her. I wonder if that will confuse anyone. It didnt really matter, she supposed.
She didnt know exactly what would happen to all the nastiness when she altered her clothing.
In the worst case, it would be carried with the material as it- The dirt sloughed off, falling back into the rest of the snow. Right. Self-cleaning.
-Did you really forget a part of what they do?-
I suppose Well, forget isnt quite right, I just didnt try to remember. I dont really think about that aspect of their magic very often.
-Thats fair.-
Rane, for his part, was getting his boots and lower pants covered in the dark muck that resulted from the snow-slurry and countless passersby, both human and animal.
Terry stayed warm, dry, and clean on Talas shoulder.
They didnt talk too much as they made their way home. Well, to my home. And Lynsand now Kanniss as well, I suppose.
-It could be Ranes too, if you wanted.-
You dont know that, and no. I dont want that.
-Its pretty obvious.-
Tala ignored that, taking special satisfaction in the wide-open, free-from-buildings park near her home.
-You know. Since I can sense when youre being influenced and then help to mitigate it. We could ride Terry through the city, until we found other syphons.-
Thatthat was a surprisingly interesting idea. Not now. Too much else going on.
-Fine, fine.-
Tala let them into the house, calling out as she did so. Im home! I brought Rane with me.
-Not Master Rane.-
Hush, you.
Tala! Come on back. Lyns voice floated out to greet them. You too, Master Rane.
Rane cleared his throat, looking down at his filthy boots and pants. Ive got to get a bit cleaned up first. Ill be out in a moment.
With that, he ducked into the washroom right of the entryway.
Tala simply stamped her feet on the mat a couple of times to let everything fall free and retracted her shoes before proceeding into the house.
She came out of the entry hall and into the main space to find Lyn and Kannis sitting in two of the chairs, seeming to have been chatting before Tala got there.
Come, sit. Lyn looked around and frowned slightly, realizing that there were only three big chairs.
Tala sat in the only other large reading chair and relaxed.
-You should say something.-
Tala sighed, leaning forward once again. So, how was the first day? I like the mage-sight inscriptions. Thats a good set. A bit taxing for new Mages, but way better than the standard.
Oh, it was wonderful. Thank you for asking. And Kannis hesitated, then blinked at her. Wait. You can tell what type of inscriptions I have?
Tala shrugged. She could. So long as I have a basis for comparison and interpretation. Yeah. My own mage-sight assists in the interpretation of inscriptions, so Ive started to pick up the basics.
Kannis seemed a bit at a loss as to how to respond to that.
Thankfully, Rane chose that moment to join them wearing new, clean pants. Hey, all.
Lyn smiled. Welcome, Master Rane. As to chairs-
Rane grinned and held up a forestalling hand, seemingly guessing what she was thinking, before pulling out a folding chair from his dimensional storage and sitting in it with practiced comfort.
Tala thought she recognized the style, and it reminded her vividly of a cyclops and being bodily skipped across the ground like a stone. I hope Grediv is still alive. Id like to slap him one day.
Well, I never really got to see my own reaction to seeing an arcane. I was already under compulsion before I noticed him She shuddered at the thought.
There was a prolonged silence, while Kannis continued to drink her tea, that was bordering on awkward when Rane cleared his throat. Well, look at it this way, Kannis. Now you have three Archons to help you out.
Lyn gave Rane a wide-eyed glare.
Rane immediately misinterpreted the look and added. Assuming your master approves of course.
Lyn groaned, and Kannis turned slowly to regard Tala. Youre an Archon, too?
Rane made an Oh face, and shifted backwards under Lyns continued disbelieving glare.
Tala smiled awkwardly and scratched her own cheek. Didn't you notice?"
"Yes, Mistress Tala, I noticed your Archon-ness under the inhuman skin and glowing arcane-looking lines." Kannis hesitated. No, you know what? No. I couldnt have noticed. You had no magical signature except what was reflecting off of you. She clucked her tongue. Why are you covered in iron? She shook her head. No, how are you covered in iron? Kannis looked to Lyn, who continued to glare at Rane.
Rane, for his part, shifted his chair backwards, to lessen his prominence in the conversation.
Tala glanced between her fellow Archons and cleared her throat. This is likely a conversation for another time.
Lyn turned back to her mageling and nodded. I agree. This will be an excellent conversation for us to have, later.
Rane slapped his hands down on his knees, drawing everyones attention back to him. So, celebration time? Kannis, youre a mageling now. Mistress Lyn, you have a mageling now. Tala, you have a new housemate. Good things all around!
That shook the group loose from the aftermath of the odd moments.
That sounds wonderful, Master Rane. Lyn stood, offering Kannis a hand. Lets get our coats and boots, and well be on our way.
Coats and boots? As Tala considered, she realized that most of the people shed seen walking through the streets had been wearing such. Those that werent had either been obviously Mages, or just as obviously miserable. I guess it is pretty cold.
-Just a bit below freezing, if my estimation is correct. The slush will be freezing, now that traffic is slowing. Be careful navigating the ice. Id hate for you to hit your head.-
Tala ignored that and turned her attention to happier topics. Where do you all want to go to eat?
Kannis gave Tala a long look, seeming much more in control of herself. I do have questions. I have so, SO many questions, but Ill take my masters guidance and not pursue them, for the moment..
That really doesnt help us find a place to eat Tala was hungry, but she shrugged. Lyn can answer what she deems appropriate for you to know, and Im happy to convey anything that she asks me to.
Thatsfair. The mageling looked conflicted, but seemed to draw herself out of it. Alright. Lets eat!
There you go. Back on the right track.
Rane smiled. I like your attitude, but we still need to know where.
Tala grinned. Little Caravans?
Lyn groaned. I cant eat that much, and while its tasty, its hardly uniquely celebratory.
Thats hardly fair. Those are amazing! But the night wasnt really about her. Alright then. Soup? Meat pies? What are you in the mood for, Kannis?
The young woman seemed to consider. You know what? I really want ice cream.
Tala chuckled. That sounds like fine dessert plans. Do you know what you want to eat for dinner before dessert?
Kannis compressed her lips, quirking them off to one side. Never heard of a little caravan before. Lets try that.
Tala lightly clapped her former-year-mate on the shoulder. I like how you think, Kannis. To little caravans!
Lyn groaned again. Youre going to be the death of me. I mean that literally, too. When these inscriptions go out of alignment, she patted her middle, Im going to pop and kill everyone around me.
Oh, youll be fine. Your inscriptions arent anywhere near the distortion point.
Rane was looking down at his clean pants, not paying attention to the current flow of the conversation, with a sour expression.
Tala regarded him for a moment before simply asking, Whats up, Rane?
He huffed a sigh. Im deciding whether to get these dirty, or change back into the pair thats already dirty.
Decisions, decisions, make up your mind, though. I have a bit of quick business with Lyn, then we should get going.
He waved her off. Ill go change back.
Tala turned to Lyn, who was now regarding her with interest. First, when will I be leaving for Marliweather?
Oh, in about a week.
Usual arrangements?
Yes. Charging required for two days before and after each leg.
Understood. Now, can you sell an assortment ofrandomly acquired items for me?
Lyns eyes narrowed. What did you do, Tala?
Nothing, nothing. I just picked up what no longer had an owner.
Uh, huh.
So, where can I put the stuff? No need for me to keep carrying it about.
Lyn sighed. Pile it on the table, so we can go.
And so, Tala did just that, laying out the woodcutting axes, hatchets, pouches, and other odds and ends that shed taken from the woodsmen whod tried to pursue her, and who had met a timely end beneath Terrys talons and beak.
Lyn looked at the items and then turned her gaze back to Tala. No. This isnt suspicious at all.
I can sell them myself if-
No, no. Its fine. Lyn cut across her. Ill see what I can do. It wont net you much, though.
Tala shrugged. Better than carrying it around any longer.
Alright. Now, lets go.
They all trudged through the snow to acquire the little caravans. Tala ate five of the cheesy little caravans; Rane ate one, and Lyn and Kannis split a smaller little caravan.
When Kannis actually noticed the pace at which Tala was eating, she couldnt hold back any longer, and she cut loose with some pointed questions. Tala explained how her healing inscriptions worked, and how Holly had added spell-forms to maintain her form, while compacting muscle and reserves into the predefined shapes at increasing densities.
Kannis obviously didnt understand the intricacies, but she seemed to get the gist of how and why it worked, at least enough for them to return to more standard dinner conversations.
They chatted about small things, but mostly just spent the time together, getting used to the new person in their midst.
After dinner, they hunted down a place that sold ice cream and continued the casual celebration.
All in all, it was a pleasant way to end what had been quite a long day.
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Chapter 183: Embarrassing for Everyone
As Tala and Rane were leaving the training complex, Tala remembered that shed promised to be at the Guardsmens training area the next day, and Aummar was even going out of his way to prepare some special things for her and Terry. Now, she wouldnt be there.
Ahh, rust. That could have been bad.
-Agreed.-
So, with that realization, she walked over to the front desk where a young woman was reading a book.
What book is that? She was able to catch enough of a look at it that Alat could extrapolate.
-Its either, How to Become a Mage without the Academy, or How to Seduce a Mage, Academically.-
Tala almost choked. Those are nothing alike!
-Well, take a better look, then. Its at an extreme angle.-
Wait is the second one actually a real book?
-Of-
Tala cut across Alat. Never mind! I dont want to know. She pushed that aside, hopefully permanently. Excuse me.
Yes, Mistress? The woman closed the book and set it title side down, before she glanced up and then frowned slightly. Despite her confusion, she didnt comment further, instead waiting for Tala to make her inquiry.
Tala assumed that the womans difficulty came from this being a for-Mages facility. While mundanes werent barred by any means, there wasnt much that would be useful to them there, generally speaking.
My lack of visible inscriptions is a bit annoying. She felt like Jenna would have known that, and they could have made the item with that in mind, but she was letting herself get distracted. Could I send a messenger from here? If not, do you know a close location that could take it.
The clerk looked to be about to give some negative response, but then her eyes moved over Terry on Talas shoulder and to Rane, before returning to Tala, her entire demeanor shifting. It seemed that whether or not Tala was a Mage didnt really matter, as she kept the company of Mages. We can do that for you for a small fee.
As that was reasonable, Tala composed a short message for Aummar and asked for it to be delivered to that specific Guardsman Training Ground as soon as possible.
It cost a half a silver but saved her the trip. And the possibility of me forgetting or getting distracted.
-I think I sense personal growth.-
Tala decided it was best to not engage.
Alat laughed in the back of Talas mind.
The message taken care of, Tala thanked the clerk and departed with Rane and Terry in tow.
They discussed the days training along with other small things as they trudged through the slush.
With no new snow added in the last bit, the existing stuff had been trampled and dirtied to the point of becoming slushy black-brown mess.
Thisthis I dont like. It was a part of the less pleasant side of winter, and Tala was grateful for both her shoes, which she had quickly grown on, and for her weight distribution scripts, which helped keep her from sinking into the dark filth. When she glanced behind herself, she did see a series of shallow, circular prints leading away behind her. I wonder if that will confuse anyone. It didnt really matter, she supposed.
She didnt know exactly what would happen to all the nastiness when she altered her clothing.
In the worst case, it would be carried with the material as it- The dirt sloughed off, falling back into the rest of the snow. Right. Self-cleaning.
-Did you really forget a part of what they do?-
I suppose Well, forget isnt quite right, I just didnt try to remember. I dont really think about that aspect of their magic very often.
-Thats fair.-
Rane, for his part, was getting his boots and lower pants covered in the dark muck that resulted from the snow-slurry and countless passersby, both human and animal.
Terry stayed warm, dry, and clean on Talas shoulder.
They didnt talk too much as they made their way home. Well, to my home. And Lynsand now Kanniss as well, I suppose.
-It could be Ranes too, if you wanted.-
You dont know that, and no. I dont want that.
-Its pretty obvious.-
Tala ignored that, taking special satisfaction in the wide-open, free-from-buildings park near her home.
-You know. Since I can sense when youre being influenced and then help to mitigate it. We could ride Terry through the city, until we found other syphons.-
Thatthat was a surprisingly interesting idea. Not now. Too much else going on.
-Fine, fine.-
Tala let them into the house, calling out as she did so. Im home! I brought Rane with me.
-Not Master Rane.-
Hush, you.
Tala! Come on back. Lyns voice floated out to greet them. You too, Master Rane.
Rane cleared his throat, looking down at his filthy boots and pants. Ive got to get a bit cleaned up first. Ill be out in a moment.
With that, he ducked into the washroom right of the entryway.
Tala simply stamped her feet on the mat a couple of times to let everything fall free and retracted her shoes before proceeding into the house.
She came out of the entry hall and into the main space to find Lyn and Kannis sitting in two of the chairs, seeming to have been chatting before Tala got there.
Come, sit. Lyn looked around and frowned slightly, realizing that there were only three big chairs.
Tala sat in the only other large reading chair and relaxed.
-You should say something.-
Tala sighed, leaning forward once again. So, how was the first day? I like the mage-sight inscriptions. Thats a good set. A bit taxing for new Mages, but way better than the standard.
Oh, it was wonderful. Thank you for asking. And Kannis hesitated, then blinked at her. Wait. You can tell what type of inscriptions I have?
Tala shrugged. She could. So long as I have a basis for comparison and interpretation. Yeah. My own mage-sight assists in the interpretation of inscriptions, so Ive started to pick up the basics.
Kannis seemed a bit at a loss as to how to respond to that.
Thankfully, Rane chose that moment to join them wearing new, clean pants. Hey, all.
Lyn smiled. Welcome, Master Rane. As to chairs-
Rane grinned and held up a forestalling hand, seemingly guessing what she was thinking, before pulling out a folding chair from his dimensional storage and sitting in it with practiced comfort.
Tala thought she recognized the style, and it reminded her vividly of a cyclops and being bodily skipped across the ground like a stone. I hope Grediv is still alive. Id like to slap him one day.
Well, I never really got to see my own reaction to seeing an arcane. I was already under compulsion before I noticed him She shuddered at the thought.
There was a prolonged silence, while Kannis continued to drink her tea, that was bordering on awkward when Rane cleared his throat. Well, look at it this way, Kannis. Now you have three Archons to help you out.
Lyn gave Rane a wide-eyed glare.
Rane immediately misinterpreted the look and added. Assuming your master approves of course.
Lyn groaned, and Kannis turned slowly to regard Tala. Youre an Archon, too?
Rane made an Oh face, and shifted backwards under Lyns continued disbelieving glare.
Tala smiled awkwardly and scratched her own cheek. Didn't you notice?"
"Yes, Mistress Tala, I noticed your Archon-ness under the inhuman skin and glowing arcane-looking lines." Kannis hesitated. No, you know what? No. I couldnt have noticed. You had no magical signature except what was reflecting off of you. She clucked her tongue. Why are you covered in iron? She shook her head. No, how are you covered in iron? Kannis looked to Lyn, who continued to glare at Rane.
Rane, for his part, shifted his chair backwards, to lessen his prominence in the conversation.
Tala glanced between her fellow Archons and cleared her throat. This is likely a conversation for another time.
Lyn turned back to her mageling and nodded. I agree. This will be an excellent conversation for us to have, later.
Rane slapped his hands down on his knees, drawing everyones attention back to him. So, celebration time? Kannis, youre a mageling now. Mistress Lyn, you have a mageling now. Tala, you have a new housemate. Good things all around!
That shook the group loose from the aftermath of the odd moments.
That sounds wonderful, Master Rane. Lyn stood, offering Kannis a hand. Lets get our coats and boots, and well be on our way.
Coats and boots? As Tala considered, she realized that most of the people shed seen walking through the streets had been wearing such. Those that werent had either been obviously Mages, or just as obviously miserable. I guess it is pretty cold.
-Just a bit below freezing, if my estimation is correct. The slush will be freezing, now that traffic is slowing. Be careful navigating the ice. Id hate for you to hit your head.-
Tala ignored that and turned her attention to happier topics. Where do you all want to go to eat?
Kannis gave Tala a long look, seeming much more in control of herself. I do have questions. I have so, SO many questions, but Ill take my masters guidance and not pursue them, for the moment..
That really doesnt help us find a place to eat Tala was hungry, but she shrugged. Lyn can answer what she deems appropriate for you to know, and Im happy to convey anything that she asks me to.
Thatsfair. The mageling looked conflicted, but seemed to draw herself out of it. Alright. Lets eat!
There you go. Back on the right track.
Rane smiled. I like your attitude, but we still need to know where.
Tala grinned. Little Caravans?
Lyn groaned. I cant eat that much, and while its tasty, its hardly uniquely celebratory.
Thats hardly fair. Those are amazing! But the night wasnt really about her. Alright then. Soup? Meat pies? What are you in the mood for, Kannis?
The young woman seemed to consider. You know what? I really want ice cream.
Tala chuckled. That sounds like fine dessert plans. Do you know what you want to eat for dinner before dessert?
Kannis compressed her lips, quirking them off to one side. Never heard of a little caravan before. Lets try that.
Tala lightly clapped her former-year-mate on the shoulder. I like how you think, Kannis. To little caravans!
Lyn groaned again. Youre going to be the death of me. I mean that literally, too. When these inscriptions go out of alignment, she patted her middle, Im going to pop and kill everyone around me.
Oh, youll be fine. Your inscriptions arent anywhere near the distortion point.
Rane was looking down at his clean pants, not paying attention to the current flow of the conversation, with a sour expression.
Tala regarded him for a moment before simply asking, Whats up, Rane?
He huffed a sigh. Im deciding whether to get these dirty, or change back into the pair thats already dirty.
Decisions, decisions, make up your mind, though. I have a bit of quick business with Lyn, then we should get going.
He waved her off. Ill go change back.
Tala turned to Lyn, who was now regarding her with interest. First, when will I be leaving for Marliweather?
Oh, in about a week.
Usual arrangements?
Yes. Charging required for two days before and after each leg.
Understood. Now, can you sell an assortment ofrandomly acquired items for me?
Lyns eyes narrowed. What did you do, Tala?
Nothing, nothing. I just picked up what no longer had an owner.
Uh, huh.
So, where can I put the stuff? No need for me to keep carrying it about.
Lyn sighed. Pile it on the table, so we can go.
And so, Tala did just that, laying out the woodcutting axes, hatchets, pouches, and other odds and ends that shed taken from the woodsmen whod tried to pursue her, and who had met a timely end beneath Terrys talons and beak.
Lyn looked at the items and then turned her gaze back to Tala. No. This isnt suspicious at all.
I can sell them myself if-
No, no. Its fine. Lyn cut across her. Ill see what I can do. It wont net you much, though.
Tala shrugged. Better than carrying it around any longer.
Alright. Now, lets go.
They all trudged through the snow to acquire the little caravans. Tala ate five of the cheesy little caravans; Rane ate one, and Lyn and Kannis split a smaller little caravan.
When Kannis actually noticed the pace at which Tala was eating, she couldnt hold back any longer, and she cut loose with some pointed questions. Tala explained how her healing inscriptions worked, and how Holly had added spell-forms to maintain her form, while compacting muscle and reserves into the predefined shapes at increasing densities.
Kannis obviously didnt understand the intricacies, but she seemed to get the gist of how and why it worked, at least enough for them to return to more standard dinner conversations.
They chatted about small things, but mostly just spent the time together, getting used to the new person in their midst.
After dinner, they hunted down a place that sold ice cream and continued the casual celebration.
All in all, it was a pleasant way to end what had been quite a long day.
Chapter 183: Embarrassing for EveryoneAs Tala and Rane were leaving the training complex, Tala remembered that shed promised to be at the Guardsmens training area the next day, and Aummar was even going out of his way to prepare some special things for her and Terry. Now, she wouldnt be there.Ahh, rust. That could have been bad.-Agreed.-So, with that realization, she walked over to the front desk where a young woman was reading a book.What book is that? She was able to catch enough of a look at it that Alat could extrapolate.-Its either, How to Become a Mage without the Academy, or How to Seduce a Mage, Academically.-Tala almost choked. Those are nothing alike!-Well, take a better look, then. Its at an extreme angle.-Wait is the second one actually a real book?-Of-Tala cut across Alat. Never mind! I dont want to know. She pushed that aside, hopefully permanently. Excuse me.Yes, Mistress? The woman closed the book and set it title side down, before she glanced up and then frowned slightly. Despite her confusion, she didnt comment further, instead waiting for Tala to make her inquiry.Tala assumed that the womans difficulty came from this being a for-Mages facility. While mundanes werent barred by any means, there wasnt much that would be useful to them there, generally speaking.My lack of visible inscriptions is a bit annoying. She felt like Jenna would have known that, and they could have made the item with that in mind, but she was letting herself get distracted. Could I send a messenger from here? If not, do you know a close location that could take it.The clerk looked to be about to give some negative response, but then her eyes moved over Terry on Talas shoulder and to Rane, before returning to Tala, her entire demeanor shifting. It seemed that whether or not Tala was a Mage didnt really matter, as she kept the company of Mages. We can do that for you for a small fee.As that was reasonable, Tala composed a short message for Aummar and asked for it to be delivered to that specific Guardsman Training Ground as soon as possible.It cost a half a silver but saved her the trip. And the possibility of me forgetting or getting distracted.-I think I sense personal growth.-Tala decided it was best to not engage.Alat laughed in the back of Talas mind.The message taken care of, Tala thanked the clerk and departed with Rane and Terry in tow.They discussed the days training along with other small things as they trudged through the slush.With no new snow added in the last bit, the existing stuff had been trampled and dirtied to the point of becoming slushy black-brown mess.Thisthis I dont like. It was a part of the less pleasant side of winter, and Tala was grateful for both her shoes, which she had quickly grown on, and for her weight distribution scripts, which helped keep her from sinking into the dark filth. When she glanced behind herself, she did see a series of shallow, circular prints leading away behind her. I wonder if that will confuse anyone. It didnt really matter, she supposed.She didnt know exactly what would happen to all the nastiness when she altered her clothing.In the worst case, it would be carried with the material as it- The dirt sloughed off, falling back into the rest of the snow. Right. Self-cleaning.-Did you really forget a part of what they do?-I suppose Well, forget isnt quite right, I just didnt try to remember. I dont really think about that aspect of their magic very often.-Thats fair.-Rane, for his part, was getting his boots and lower pants covered in the dark muck that resulted from the snow-slurry and countless passersby, both human and animal.Terry stayed warm, dry, and clean on Talas shoulder.They didnt talk too much as they made their way home. Well, to my home. And Lynsand now Kanniss as well, I suppose.-It could be Ranes too, if you wanted.-You dont know that, and no. I dont want that.-Its pretty obvious.-Tala ignored that, taking special satisfaction in the wide-open, free-from-buildings park near her home.-You know. Since I can sense when youre being influenced and then help to mitigate it. We could ride Terry through the city, until we found other syphons.-Thatthat was a surprisingly interesting idea. Not now. Too much else going on.-Fine, fine.-Tala let them into the house, calling out as she did so. Im home! I brought Rane with me.-Not Master Rane.-Hush, you.Tala! Come on back. Lyns voice floated out to greet them. You too, Master Rane.Rane cleared his throat, looking down at his filthy boots and pants. Ive got to get a bit cleaned up first. Ill be out in a moment.With that, he ducked into the washroom right of the entryway.Tala simply stamped her feet on the mat a couple of times to let everything fall free and retracted her shoes before proceeding into the house.She came out of the entry hall and into the main space to find Lyn and Kannis sitting in two of the chairs, seeming to have been chatting before Tala got there.Come, sit. Lyn looked around and frowned slightly, realizing that there were only three big chairs.Tala sat in the only other large reading chair and relaxed.-You should say something.-Tala sighed, leaning forward once again. So, how was the first day? I like the mage-sight inscriptions. Thats a good set. A bit taxing for new Mages, but way better than the standard.Oh, it was wonderful. Thank you for asking. And Kannis hesitated, then blinked at her. Wait. You can tell what type of inscriptions I have?Tala shrugged. She could. So long as I have a basis for comparison and interpretation. Yeah. My own mage-sight assists in the interpretation of inscriptions, so Ive started to pick up the basics.Kannis seemed a bit at a loss as to how to respond to that.Thankfully, Rane chose that moment to join them wearing new, clean pants. Hey, all.Lyn smiled. Welcome, Master Rane. As to chairs-Rane grinned and held up a forestalling hand, seemingly guessing what she was thinking, before pulling out a folding chair from his dimensional storage and sitting in it with practiced comfort.Tala thought she recognized the style, and it reminded her vividly of a cyclops and being bodily skipped across the ground like a stone. I hope Grediv is still alive. Id like to slap him one day.Well, I never really got to see my own reaction to seeing an arcane. I was already under compulsion before I noticed him She shuddered at the thought.There was a prolonged silence, while Kannis continued to drink her tea, that was bordering on awkward when Rane cleared his throat. Well, look at it this way, Kannis. Now you have three Archons to help you out.Lyn gave Rane a wide-eyed glare.Rane immediately misinterpreted the look and added. Assuming your master approves of course.Lyn groaned, and Kannis turned slowly to regard Tala. Youre an Archon, too?Rane made an Oh face, and shifted backwards under Lyns continued disbelieving glare.Tala smiled awkwardly and scratched her own cheek. Didn't you notice?""Yes, Mistress Tala, I noticed your Archon-ness under the inhuman skin and glowing arcane-looking lines." Kannis hesitated. No, you know what? No. I couldnt have noticed. You had no magical signature except what was reflecting off of you. She clucked her tongue. Why are you covered in iron? She shook her head. No, how are you covered in iron? Kannis looked to Lyn, who continued to glare at Rane.Rane, for his part, shifted his chair backwards, to lessen his prominence in the conversation.Tala glanced between her fellow Archons and cleared her throat. This is likely a conversation for another time.Lyn turned back to her mageling and nodded. I agree. This will be an excellent conversation for us to have, later.Rane slapped his hands down on his knees, drawing everyones attention back to him. So, celebration time? Kannis, youre a mageling now. Mistress Lyn, you have a mageling now. Tala, you have a new housemate. Good things all around!That shook the group loose from the aftermath of the odd moments.That sounds wonderful, Master Rane. Lyn stood, offering Kannis a hand. Lets get our coats and boots, and well be on our way.Coats and boots? As Tala considered, she realized that most of the people shed seen walking through the streets had been wearing such. Those that werent had either been obviously Mages, or just as obviously miserable. I guess it is pretty cold.-Just a bit below freezing, if my estimation is correct. The slush will be freezing, now that traffic is slowing. Be careful navigating the ice. Id hate for you to hit your head.-Tala ignored that and turned her attention to happier topics. Where do you all want to go to eat?Kannis gave Tala a long look, seeming much more in control of herself. I do have questions. I have so, SO many questions, but Ill take my masters guidance and not pursue them, for the moment..That really doesnt help us find a place to eat Tala was hungry, but she shrugged. Lyn can answer what she deems appropriate for you to know, and Im happy to convey anything that she asks me to.Thatsfair. The mageling looked conflicted, but seemed to draw herself out of it. Alright. Lets eat!There you go. Back on the right track.Rane smiled. I like your attitude, but we still need to know where.Tala grinned. Little Caravans?Lyn groaned. I cant eat that much, and while its tasty, its hardly uniquely celebratory.Thats hardly fair. Those are amazing! But the night wasnt really about her. Alright then. Soup? Meat pies? What are you in the mood for, Kannis?The young woman seemed to consider. You know what? I really want ice cream.Tala chuckled. That sounds like fine dessert plans. Do you know what you want to eat for dinner before dessert?Kannis compressed her lips, quirking them off to one side. Never heard of a little caravan before. Lets try that.Tala lightly clapped her former-year-mate on the shoulder. I like how you think, Kannis. To little caravans!Lyn groaned again. Youre going to be the death of me. I mean that literally, too. When these inscriptions go out of alignment, she patted her middle, Im going to pop and kill everyone around me.Oh, youll be fine. Your inscriptions arent anywhere near the distortion point.Rane was looking down at his clean pants, not paying attention to the current flow of the conversation, with a sour expression.Tala regarded him for a moment before simply asking, Whats up, Rane?He huffed a sigh. Im deciding whether to get these dirty, or change back into the pair thats already dirty.Decisions, decisions, make up your mind, though. I have a bit of quick business with Lyn, then we should get going.He waved her off. Ill go change back.Tala turned to Lyn, who was now regarding her with interest. First, when will I be leaving for Marliweather?Oh, in about a week.Usual arrangements?Yes. Charging required for two days before and after each leg.Understood. Now, can you sell an assortment ofrandomly acquired items for me?Lyns eyes narrowed. What did you do, Tala?Nothing, nothing. I just picked up what no longer had an owner.Uh, huh.So, where can I put the stuff? No need for me to keep carrying it about.Lyn sighed. Pile it on the table, so we can go.And so, Tala did just that, laying out the woodcutting axes, hatchets, pouches, and other odds and ends that shed taken from the woodsmen whod tried to pursue her, and who had met a timely end beneath Terrys talons and beak.Lyn looked at the items and then turned her gaze back to Tala. No. This isnt suspicious at all.I can sell them myself if-No, no. Its fine. Lyn cut across her. Ill see what I can do. It wont net you much, though.Tala shrugged. Better than carrying it around any longer.Alright. Now, lets go.They all trudged through the snow to acquire the little caravans. Tala ate five of the cheesy little caravans; Rane ate one, and Lyn and Kannis split a smaller little caravan.When Kannis actually noticed the pace at which Tala was eating, she couldnt hold back any longer, and she cut loose with some pointed questions. Tala explained how her healing inscriptions worked, and how Holly had added spell-forms to maintain her form, while compacting muscle and reserves into the predefined shapes at increasing densities.Kannis obviously didnt understand the intricacies, but she seemed to get the gist of how and why it worked, at least enough for them to return to more standard dinner conversations.They chatted about small things, but mostly just spent the time together, getting used to the new person in their midst.After dinner, they hunted down a place that sold ice cream and continued the casual celebration.All in all, it was a pleasant way to end what had been quite a long day.
