Chapter 72: Are You Heavier?
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Chapter 72: Are You Heavier?
Tala passed a bit of time with Master Himmal, but eventually bid him goodbye, promising to come by to test out the custom cargo-slots near the end of the week.
She had been surprised that he hadnt commented on Terry, but she supposed arcane pets werent too uncommon. She fell back into her routine as she walked to the training ground that Adam had indicated. She was almost done with the first set of topics shed noted for review. Good thing, too. Hollys got to have something to work on, or shes likely to be cross.
When Tala arrived, she was startled by what she found.
It was a sprawling compound, with the training yard open to the street so that passersby, or the curious, could watch the training. Good for recruitment, I guess?
The training yard was at least a hundred yards long, and half that wide. There were sections of grass, dirt, and paved stone of various sizes interspersed throughout. Across the entirety, hundreds of men and women were stretching, sparring, practicing techniques, or otherwise working their muscles.
To her surprise, her mage-sight picked up the ebbs and flows of power throughout the yard, and not just from the healers, ready to help if those sparring were injured. Power moved through these people in a manner that she could only equate to that of the arcanous creatures shed seen. Not the elemental magics, obviously.
Even so, she could see that, to a variety of extents, these guards would be stronger, faster, and more durable than the average citizen. How are they doing that without inscriptions? The power was clearly coming from their own un-inscribed gates, but she couldnt see anything directing it.
Something to investigate, I suppose. Shed seen hints of it in Adam, before, but it was being fully brought out as those before her worked to push themselves.
Around the training yard were quite a few buildings. Some appeared to be additional training halls, either to allow for more private or more sheltered training. It was a cool morning, but not painfully so for the average person. Probably why most of them are outside.
Other buildings seemed to be instructional classrooms or administrative offices from what little she could see. Overall, it looked more like a school, which emphasized physicality, than a barracks and muster yard. I suppose thats what I get for assuming. She felt a smile tug at her lips.
The sparring drew her attention, and she noted that those who were using weapons were using wooden or padded varieties, though they didnt seem to be pulling their strikes, whether armed or barehanded. In fact, as she watched, one of the combatants broke a training sword over anothers shoulder, the strike drawing blood and breaking bone, if the deformation of the shoulder that she could see, even at this distance, was any indication.The initial posting of this chapter occurred via Ñøv€l-B!n.
Before the mans first scream had died down, a healing Mage was beside him, the healer lighting up to Talas mage-sight as he quickly repaired the injury. Clever, so they can train at full power, get used to injuries and not lose much training time. She thought for a moment. I wonder if they ever let the injuries stand? Might be useful to practice fighting while impaired. That was a question for another time.
Quite a few citizens were standing along the road, either individually or in groups, watching the goings on. Many more slowed down as they passed, mixtures of admiration, envy, and contempt across their faces. There is someone who will look down on any endeavor, I suppose.
Without slowing, Tala walked forward, crossing the almost invisible line between street and training yard. Immediately, one of the nearby Guardsmen stood and came her way.
Mistress? How can we serve?
I am searching for Guardsman Adam. Hed asked me to come by today.
The Guardsman bowed. Would you be willing to wait here? I can go inquire on your behalf.
Tala simply nodded, and the guardsman jogged off, ostensibly to do just that. Many of the others in the yard were glancing her way, but no one seemed to pay her much more attention than their initial glance.
As she continued to look around, she could see parts of many of the techniques that Adam had taught her, demonstrated in the movements of those across the yard. It was fascinating to observe how a simple striking pattern was altered for use with a spear, mace, or sword, and how each of those differed from the others. There is such depth to the practice.
A few minutes later, the guardsman returned, gesturing towards one of the central buildings. Guardsman Adam is expecting you, and he awaits you there. Would you like a guide?
Tala shook her head. No, thank you. I can find my way just fine.
He bowed. Good day, Mistress.
Good day, Guardsman.
He returned to his practice, and she strolled through the training yard, weaving in wide arcs to avoid interfering with anyone.
As she walked, she took in the beautifully clear sky above and basked in the morning light. Many are likely still rising, and here I am, at my second task of the day.
There were, of course, the sounds of exertion and cries both of attack and of pain filling the air around her. As she walked, she saw no fewer than twelve healing Mages spaced around various parts of the yard, and she might not have spotted them all. A healer for every twenty people or so? Seems excessive but must work for them.
She came to the building in question, and looked up at the simple, sturdy architecture. There was a beauty in its utility, and she found herself smiling at that.
Mistress Tala!
Her gaze dropped, and her smile changed just slightly to one of greeting. Guardsman Adam. Seems I found the right place.
The Guardsman was wearing loose-fitting clothes, clearly meant for exercise, and he had a light sheen of sweat to him.
Spent the morning training? She stepped forward, into the building.
Mistress Tala. This way, please. He led her deeper into the building and down a series of interconnecting hallways. As they walked, he used a cloth to wipe much of the sweat from his head and arms. Thank you for coming.
Thank you for being willing to train me.
He grinned. This is a rare opportunity. Master Rane is already here. He added the last as an afterthought.
They came to one of the instructional rooms and entered together. Some thirty men and women, all in their twenties, sat facing the front of the room. They were all dressed similarly to Adam, and they each seemed to have a notebook and a means of taking notes, and each was doing just that.
A much older man, at least in his fifties, sat at the front of the room, also facing the last remaining occupant.
Rane was just finishing his sentence as they walked in. -the force is therefore redirected, or avoided, without actually being guided.
In the silence that followed, Rane waved to Tala, smiling, and she waved back.
The older man stood. Thank you, Master Rane. Can anyone tell me a key take-away from his last point?
A woman near the front spoke up. He doesnt have to concern himself with dodging, because his opponents attack causes him to be moved out of harms way.
The older man frowned. Yes and no. He will not need to focus on taking the action, that is correct. However, if any attack met by that defense, no matter how small, causes him to alter direction to mitigate the damage, that means that Master Rane is constantly subject to forces outside his direct control. He would have to be even more aware of the incoming attacks than if he simply moved out of the way beforehand or braced to take the blow.
The woman frowned in turn. Then, why is it better?
A man in the back of the room spoke loudly in response, Because unexpected movement is better than unexpected injuries.
A few people smiled at that, and Rane nodded, responding, Precisely. I could close my eyes and simply stand still and be fairly safe. Id be utterly ineffective, but safe from mundane attack.
The main instructor smiled. So, you will each write up a basic overview of a fighting style for Master Rane, and in coming classes, we will compare it to what he has actually been using.
Rane smiled. I hope to learn something. I make no claim at perfection.
The instructor had noticed Tala and Adam entering, and he turned to them now. This is Mistress Tala, and you all know instructor Adam.
Those present returned a chorus of greetings.
The central project of the next two weeks will be creating, then perfecting, a fighting style for Mistress Tala, here. That portion of your assignment for today will be to construct a series of tests to determine the scope and limit of her abilities, so that we can build a style that maximizes her effectiveness. Mistress Tala.
I guess he noticed my missing iron salve. That was fine, she wasnt trying to hide the fact. She shook her head, in response. I really dont have time.
He seemed to deflate a bit.
With effort, she kept from either sighing or rolling her eyes. Ill have more time tomorrow, but just a bit.
He perked up. Lunch, then?
She quirked a smile. After whatever crazy assessments they come up with? Ill probably need it.
Its a plan, then. He smiled.
Sounds good. She glanced ahead, to the archway back out onto the training grounds. I really do have to go, but thank you for asking.
He smiled and waved her off. See you, tomorrow.
* * *
Ok, Tala. Avoiding it wont help. Lets get this over with.
Tala held herself stiffly upright, as she walked into the Caravanners Guildhall, marching straight through to one of the main desks near the back of the atrium.
Good morning, Mistress. How can I assist you, today? The young man, sitting behind the desk, smiled warmly at her.
Im Mistress Tala. I was informed I needed to meet with a senior guild official? Come on, come on. This is not what I want to do No. She needed to be here. This had to be dealt with.
Mistress Tala He looked through a large appointment book on the desk in front of him. He turned the page, beginning to frown. Mistress Tala Im sorry, Im not seeing you in the collated calendar. Who is your appointment scheduled with and when did you schedule your appointment for?
Tala hesitated, then felt herself coloring. Oh I didnt know I needed to schedule it. I was simply told one was needed. Whenever I was ordered to attend a disciplinary meeting, I had to go right away, and I was seen right away This, apparently, was different. I have to schedule my own session to be reprimanded. She almost snorted a laugh. I guess, I should have expected that.
The young man checked a few more pages, then looked up, apologetically. It doesnt seem to be here, and no Senior Official is available, today. Who were you supposed to meet with, again? Perhaps, I can get you in tomorrow.
Tala opened her mouth to answer, then closed it. I have no idea.
The young man seemed to understand. I see. Thats more than fine. He nodded, consolingly. Id recommend reaching out to your Guild handler, or point of contact, and ask them to schedule the required meeting.
Tala nodded, feeling incredibly embarrassed. Ill Ill do that. Thank you.
Happy to assist, Mistress. I wish I could have done more. You have a good day.
* * *
Ten minutes later, Tala had shaken off her embarrassment and was again walking the streets of Bandfast, this time heading towards the Constructionists Guild. As she was walking, she realized that the pace of her reading was much faster than expected. She could now read much faster than even on the recent caravan trip.
I guess the enhancements made my movements easier, freeing up more of my mind to focus on reading? It was as good a reason as any other she could think of.
The books were a masterwork in-and-of-themselves, at least the one she was currently referencing was. It contained detailed schematics of each organ or organ system as they were discussed, coupled with cleverly rendered schema, illustrating their three-dimensional nature, along with how they would accomplish what they did. It was, unsurprisingly, incredibly detailed on the how. If Tala didnt understand what, and how, the magic was supposed to work, it wouldnt function. In the worst case, it could malfunction and destroy the parts of her body inscribed.
I didnt really expect to delve back into anatomy and physiology so deeply, so soon
Shed always preferred physics, hence the nature of her offensive spell-forms, but the work Holly would be doing now was incredibly dependent on Talas second favorite subject, just as shed suspected it would.
Im just glad that I already had specific interest and knowledge in the muscular-skeletal system, along with the vascular, or Id have to have done a bunch of research before even yesterdays inscribings
She sighed. It was fascinating, and Holly had gone out of her way to make the writing engaging, but it was still a dense subject matter.
How did she even have time for this?
Tala supposed that the general overviews would be common to anyone getting any given organ inscribed, so those would just have to be copied over.
And its not like Im the first person to have my organs enhanced. This is probably just an amalgamation of those techniques, slightly modified for my particular make-up.
She hesitated, even stopping in the middle of a stride. Wait how did she know the exact dimensions of all my organs to make properly shaped spell-forms She placed a hand on the back of her neck.
How much is this script analyzing and recording?
She thought back. Holly said that it would monitor everything about me She groaned. Well, I did understand what it would doI suppose I just didnt assume it would be literal
She sighed, continuing on her way and returning most of her attention to the current portion of this book.
Tala finished the first subject in her list-to-review by the time she reached the Constructionist Guilds local office. Closing the book with a satisfying thunk, she tucked it into Kit and looked up at the beautifully designed faade. Rust me, they really didnt spare on the expense of this place.
While highly detailed, the elements were tastefully interwoven to give an overall inviting, if humbling, atmosphere. Tala smiled as she walked to the large front doors.
There werent a lot of other patrons at the moment, but that made some sense. This guild didnt have as much to do as the Caravanners. Thoughare the Wainwrights a subsidiary? That made sense, and most guilds worked in that way. Guilds of guildsah, society. How wonderful your complications.
She found herself grinning.
As she stepped across the threshold, she felt a tingle in her keystone, indicating magic had been directed her way, and a wave of power pulsed out from behind her. There was no specific spell-form to it, but it had the overpowering sense of an infrared aura. Did the door just scan me and announce my classification?
An attendant appeared, entering from the side. Mistress, how can we serve you today? His eyes glanced to Terry, and there was definite curiosity, but he didnt comment beyond his initial question.
Tala pulled out the sheet that Lyn had written up for her. Hello, yes. I was sent here by Mistress Lyn of the Caravanners Guild. She said I should ask for Master Boma?
The attendant paused, power rippling over his face as he looked at her. I apologize Mistress, but Master Boma usually does not attend to the needs of those below Archon He was clearly torn. Mistress Lyn sent you, you say?
Tala nodded.
Very well, let me check with him, and see if that name changes anything for him.
Thank you.
You may find it more comfortable to wait in there. He pointed off to one side. There is a waiting area through that archway, and youll find refreshments available, while you wait.
With a smile and slight bow, the man turned and went back the way he had come.
Well, Terry, lets see what refreshments they have for us.
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Chapter 72: Are You Heavier?
Tala passed a bit of time with Master Himmal, but eventually bid him goodbye, promising to come by to test out the custom cargo-slots near the end of the week.
She had been surprised that he hadnt commented on Terry, but she supposed arcane pets werent too uncommon. She fell back into her routine as she walked to the training ground that Adam had indicated. She was almost done with the first set of topics shed noted for review. Good thing, too. Hollys got to have something to work on, or shes likely to be cross.
When Tala arrived, she was startled by what she found.
It was a sprawling compound, with the training yard open to the street so that passersby, or the curious, could watch the training. Good for recruitment, I guess?
The training yard was at least a hundred yards long, and half that wide. There were sections of grass, dirt, and paved stone of various sizes interspersed throughout. Across the entirety, hundreds of men and women were stretching, sparring, practicing techniques, or otherwise working their muscles.
To her surprise, her mage-sight picked up the ebbs and flows of power throughout the yard, and not just from the healers, ready to help if those sparring were injured. Power moved through these people in a manner that she could only equate to that of the arcanous creatures shed seen. Not the elemental magics, obviously.
Even so, she could see that, to a variety of extents, these guards would be stronger, faster, and more durable than the average citizen. How are they doing that without inscriptions? The power was clearly coming from their own un-inscribed gates, but she couldnt see anything directing it.
Something to investigate, I suppose. Shed seen hints of it in Adam, before, but it was being fully brought out as those before her worked to push themselves.
Around the training yard were quite a few buildings. Some appeared to be additional training halls, either to allow for more private or more sheltered training. It was a cool morning, but not painfully so for the average person. Probably why most of them are outside.
Other buildings seemed to be instructional classrooms or administrative offices from what little she could see. Overall, it looked more like a school, which emphasized physicality, than a barracks and muster yard. I suppose thats what I get for assuming. She felt a smile tug at her lips.
The sparring drew her attention, and she noted that those who were using weapons were using wooden or padded varieties, though they didnt seem to be pulling their strikes, whether armed or barehanded. In fact, as she watched, one of the combatants broke a training sword over anothers shoulder, the strike drawing blood and breaking bone, if the deformation of the shoulder that she could see, even at this distance, was any indication.The initial posting of this chapter occurred via Ñøv€l-B!n.
Before the mans first scream had died down, a healing Mage was beside him, the healer lighting up to Talas mage-sight as he quickly repaired the injury. Clever, so they can train at full power, get used to injuries and not lose much training time. She thought for a moment. I wonder if they ever let the injuries stand? Might be useful to practice fighting while impaired. That was a question for another time.
Quite a few citizens were standing along the road, either individually or in groups, watching the goings on. Many more slowed down as they passed, mixtures of admiration, envy, and contempt across their faces. There is someone who will look down on any endeavor, I suppose.
Without slowing, Tala walked forward, crossing the almost invisible line between street and training yard. Immediately, one of the nearby Guardsmen stood and came her way.
Mistress? How can we serve?
I am searching for Guardsman Adam. Hed asked me to come by today.
The Guardsman bowed. Would you be willing to wait here? I can go inquire on your behalf.
Tala simply nodded, and the guardsman jogged off, ostensibly to do just that. Many of the others in the yard were glancing her way, but no one seemed to pay her much more attention than their initial glance.
As she continued to look around, she could see parts of many of the techniques that Adam had taught her, demonstrated in the movements of those across the yard. It was fascinating to observe how a simple striking pattern was altered for use with a spear, mace, or sword, and how each of those differed from the others. There is such depth to the practice.
A few minutes later, the guardsman returned, gesturing towards one of the central buildings. Guardsman Adam is expecting you, and he awaits you there. Would you like a guide?
Tala shook her head. No, thank you. I can find my way just fine.
He bowed. Good day, Mistress.
Good day, Guardsman.
He returned to his practice, and she strolled through the training yard, weaving in wide arcs to avoid interfering with anyone.
As she walked, she took in the beautifully clear sky above and basked in the morning light. Many are likely still rising, and here I am, at my second task of the day.
There were, of course, the sounds of exertion and cries both of attack and of pain filling the air around her. As she walked, she saw no fewer than twelve healing Mages spaced around various parts of the yard, and she might not have spotted them all. A healer for every twenty people or so? Seems excessive but must work for them.
She came to the building in question, and looked up at the simple, sturdy architecture. There was a beauty in its utility, and she found herself smiling at that.
Mistress Tala!
Her gaze dropped, and her smile changed just slightly to one of greeting. Guardsman Adam. Seems I found the right place.
The Guardsman was wearing loose-fitting clothes, clearly meant for exercise, and he had a light sheen of sweat to him.
Spent the morning training? She stepped forward, into the building.
Mistress Tala. This way, please. He led her deeper into the building and down a series of interconnecting hallways. As they walked, he used a cloth to wipe much of the sweat from his head and arms. Thank you for coming.
Thank you for being willing to train me.
He grinned. This is a rare opportunity. Master Rane is already here. He added the last as an afterthought.
They came to one of the instructional rooms and entered together. Some thirty men and women, all in their twenties, sat facing the front of the room. They were all dressed similarly to Adam, and they each seemed to have a notebook and a means of taking notes, and each was doing just that.
A much older man, at least in his fifties, sat at the front of the room, also facing the last remaining occupant.
Rane was just finishing his sentence as they walked in. -the force is therefore redirected, or avoided, without actually being guided.
In the silence that followed, Rane waved to Tala, smiling, and she waved back.
The older man stood. Thank you, Master Rane. Can anyone tell me a key take-away from his last point?
A woman near the front spoke up. He doesnt have to concern himself with dodging, because his opponents attack causes him to be moved out of harms way.
The older man frowned. Yes and no. He will not need to focus on taking the action, that is correct. However, if any attack met by that defense, no matter how small, causes him to alter direction to mitigate the damage, that means that Master Rane is constantly subject to forces outside his direct control. He would have to be even more aware of the incoming attacks than if he simply moved out of the way beforehand or braced to take the blow.
The woman frowned in turn. Then, why is it better?
A man in the back of the room spoke loudly in response, Because unexpected movement is better than unexpected injuries.
A few people smiled at that, and Rane nodded, responding, Precisely. I could close my eyes and simply stand still and be fairly safe. Id be utterly ineffective, but safe from mundane attack.
The main instructor smiled. So, you will each write up a basic overview of a fighting style for Master Rane, and in coming classes, we will compare it to what he has actually been using.
Rane smiled. I hope to learn something. I make no claim at perfection.
The instructor had noticed Tala and Adam entering, and he turned to them now. This is Mistress Tala, and you all know instructor Adam.
Those present returned a chorus of greetings.
The central project of the next two weeks will be creating, then perfecting, a fighting style for Mistress Tala, here. That portion of your assignment for today will be to construct a series of tests to determine the scope and limit of her abilities, so that we can build a style that maximizes her effectiveness. Mistress Tala.
I guess he noticed my missing iron salve. That was fine, she wasnt trying to hide the fact. She shook her head, in response. I really dont have time.
He seemed to deflate a bit.
With effort, she kept from either sighing or rolling her eyes. Ill have more time tomorrow, but just a bit.
He perked up. Lunch, then?
She quirked a smile. After whatever crazy assessments they come up with? Ill probably need it.
Its a plan, then. He smiled.
Sounds good. She glanced ahead, to the archway back out onto the training grounds. I really do have to go, but thank you for asking.
He smiled and waved her off. See you, tomorrow.
* * *
Ok, Tala. Avoiding it wont help. Lets get this over with.
Tala held herself stiffly upright, as she walked into the Caravanners Guildhall, marching straight through to one of the main desks near the back of the atrium.
Good morning, Mistress. How can I assist you, today? The young man, sitting behind the desk, smiled warmly at her.
Im Mistress Tala. I was informed I needed to meet with a senior guild official? Come on, come on. This is not what I want to do No. She needed to be here. This had to be dealt with.
Mistress Tala He looked through a large appointment book on the desk in front of him. He turned the page, beginning to frown. Mistress Tala Im sorry, Im not seeing you in the collated calendar. Who is your appointment scheduled with and when did you schedule your appointment for?
Tala hesitated, then felt herself coloring. Oh I didnt know I needed to schedule it. I was simply told one was needed. Whenever I was ordered to attend a disciplinary meeting, I had to go right away, and I was seen right away This, apparently, was different. I have to schedule my own session to be reprimanded. She almost snorted a laugh. I guess, I should have expected that.
The young man checked a few more pages, then looked up, apologetically. It doesnt seem to be here, and no Senior Official is available, today. Who were you supposed to meet with, again? Perhaps, I can get you in tomorrow.
Tala opened her mouth to answer, then closed it. I have no idea.
The young man seemed to understand. I see. Thats more than fine. He nodded, consolingly. Id recommend reaching out to your Guild handler, or point of contact, and ask them to schedule the required meeting.
Tala nodded, feeling incredibly embarrassed. Ill Ill do that. Thank you.
Happy to assist, Mistress. I wish I could have done more. You have a good day.
* * *
Ten minutes later, Tala had shaken off her embarrassment and was again walking the streets of Bandfast, this time heading towards the Constructionists Guild. As she was walking, she realized that the pace of her reading was much faster than expected. She could now read much faster than even on the recent caravan trip.
I guess the enhancements made my movements easier, freeing up more of my mind to focus on reading? It was as good a reason as any other she could think of.
The books were a masterwork in-and-of-themselves, at least the one she was currently referencing was. It contained detailed schematics of each organ or organ system as they were discussed, coupled with cleverly rendered schema, illustrating their three-dimensional nature, along with how they would accomplish what they did. It was, unsurprisingly, incredibly detailed on the how. If Tala didnt understand what, and how, the magic was supposed to work, it wouldnt function. In the worst case, it could malfunction and destroy the parts of her body inscribed.
I didnt really expect to delve back into anatomy and physiology so deeply, so soon
Shed always preferred physics, hence the nature of her offensive spell-forms, but the work Holly would be doing now was incredibly dependent on Talas second favorite subject, just as shed suspected it would.
Im just glad that I already had specific interest and knowledge in the muscular-skeletal system, along with the vascular, or Id have to have done a bunch of research before even yesterdays inscribings
She sighed. It was fascinating, and Holly had gone out of her way to make the writing engaging, but it was still a dense subject matter.
How did she even have time for this?
Tala supposed that the general overviews would be common to anyone getting any given organ inscribed, so those would just have to be copied over.
And its not like Im the first person to have my organs enhanced. This is probably just an amalgamation of those techniques, slightly modified for my particular make-up.
She hesitated, even stopping in the middle of a stride. Wait how did she know the exact dimensions of all my organs to make properly shaped spell-forms She placed a hand on the back of her neck.
How much is this script analyzing and recording?
She thought back. Holly said that it would monitor everything about me She groaned. Well, I did understand what it would doI suppose I just didnt assume it would be literal
She sighed, continuing on her way and returning most of her attention to the current portion of this book.
Tala finished the first subject in her list-to-review by the time she reached the Constructionist Guilds local office. Closing the book with a satisfying thunk, she tucked it into Kit and looked up at the beautifully designed faade. Rust me, they really didnt spare on the expense of this place.
While highly detailed, the elements were tastefully interwoven to give an overall inviting, if humbling, atmosphere. Tala smiled as she walked to the large front doors.
There werent a lot of other patrons at the moment, but that made some sense. This guild didnt have as much to do as the Caravanners. Thoughare the Wainwrights a subsidiary? That made sense, and most guilds worked in that way. Guilds of guildsah, society. How wonderful your complications.
She found herself grinning.
As she stepped across the threshold, she felt a tingle in her keystone, indicating magic had been directed her way, and a wave of power pulsed out from behind her. There was no specific spell-form to it, but it had the overpowering sense of an infrared aura. Did the door just scan me and announce my classification?
An attendant appeared, entering from the side. Mistress, how can we serve you today? His eyes glanced to Terry, and there was definite curiosity, but he didnt comment beyond his initial question.
Tala pulled out the sheet that Lyn had written up for her. Hello, yes. I was sent here by Mistress Lyn of the Caravanners Guild. She said I should ask for Master Boma?
The attendant paused, power rippling over his face as he looked at her. I apologize Mistress, but Master Boma usually does not attend to the needs of those below Archon He was clearly torn. Mistress Lyn sent you, you say?
Tala nodded.
Very well, let me check with him, and see if that name changes anything for him.
Thank you.
You may find it more comfortable to wait in there. He pointed off to one side. There is a waiting area through that archway, and youll find refreshments available, while you wait.
With a smile and slight bow, the man turned and went back the way he had come.
Well, Terry, lets see what refreshments they have for us.
Chapter 72: Are You Heavier?Tala passed a bit of time with Master Himmal, but eventually bid him goodbye, promising to come by to test out the custom cargo-slots near the end of the week.She had been surprised that he hadnt commented on Terry, but she supposed arcane pets werent too uncommon. She fell back into her routine as she walked to the training ground that Adam had indicated. She was almost done with the first set of topics shed noted for review. Good thing, too. Hollys got to have something to work on, or shes likely to be cross.When Tala arrived, she was startled by what she found.It was a sprawling compound, with the training yard open to the street so that passersby, or the curious, could watch the training. Good for recruitment, I guess?The training yard was at least a hundred yards long, and half that wide. There were sections of grass, dirt, and paved stone of various sizes interspersed throughout. Across the entirety, hundreds of men and women were stretching, sparring, practicing techniques, or otherwise working their muscles.To her surprise, her mage-sight picked up the ebbs and flows of power throughout the yard, and not just from the healers, ready to help if those sparring were injured. Power moved through these people in a manner that she could only equate to that of the arcanous creatures shed seen. Not the elemental magics, obviously.Even so, she could see that, to a variety of extents, these guards would be stronger, faster, and more durable than the average citizen. How are they doing that without inscriptions? The power was clearly coming from their own un-inscribed gates, but she couldnt see anything directing it.Something to investigate, I suppose. Shed seen hints of it in Adam, before, but it was being fully brought out as those before her worked to push themselves.Around the training yard were quite a few buildings. Some appeared to be additional training halls, either to allow for more private or more sheltered training. It was a cool morning, but not painfully so for the average person. Probably why most of them are outside.Other buildings seemed to be instructional classrooms or administrative offices from what little she could see. Overall, it looked more like a school, which emphasized physicality, than a barracks and muster yard. I suppose thats what I get for assuming. She felt a smile tug at her lips.The sparring drew her attention, and she noted that those who were using weapons were using wooden or padded varieties, though they didnt seem to be pulling their strikes, whether armed or barehanded. In fact, as she watched, one of the combatants broke a training sword over anothers shoulder, the strike drawing blood and breaking bone, if the deformation of the shoulder that she could see, even at this distance, was any indication.The initial posting of this chapter occurred via Nvl-B!n.Before the mans first scream had died down, a healing Mage was beside him, the healer lighting up to Talas mage-sight as he quickly repaired the injury. Clever, so they can train at full power, get used to injuries and not lose much training time. She thought for a moment. I wonder if they ever let the injuries stand? Might be useful to practice fighting while impaired. That was a question for another time.Quite a few citizens were standing along the road, either individually or in groups, watching the goings on. Many more slowed down as they passed, mixtures of admiration, envy, and contempt across their faces. There is someone who will look down on any endeavor, I suppose.Without slowing, Tala walked forward, crossing the almost invisible line between street and training yard. Immediately, one of the nearby Guardsmen stood and came her way.Mistress? How can we serve?I am searching for Guardsman Adam. Hed asked me to come by today.The Guardsman bowed. Would you be willing to wait here? I can go inquire on your behalf.Tala simply nodded, and the guardsman jogged off, ostensibly to do just that. Many of the others in the yard were glancing her way, but no one seemed to pay her much more attention than their initial glance.As she continued to look around, she could see parts of many of the techniques that Adam had taught her, demonstrated in the movements of those across the yard. It was fascinating to observe how a simple striking pattern was altered for use with a spear, mace, or sword, and how each of those differed from the others. There is such depth to the practice.A few minutes later, the guardsman returned, gesturing towards one of the central buildings. Guardsman Adam is expecting you, and he awaits you there. Would you like a guide?Tala shook her head. No, thank you. I can find my way just fine.He bowed. Good day, Mistress.Good day, Guardsman.He returned to his practice, and she strolled through the training yard, weaving in wide arcs to avoid interfering with anyone.As she walked, she took in the beautifully clear sky above and basked in the morning light. Many are likely still rising, and here I am, at my second task of the day.There were, of course, the sounds of exertion and cries both of attack and of pain filling the air around her. As she walked, she saw no fewer than twelve healing Mages spaced around various parts of the yard, and she might not have spotted them all. A healer for every twenty people or so? Seems excessive but must work for them.She came to the building in question, and looked up at the simple, sturdy architecture. There was a beauty in its utility, and she found herself smiling at that.Mistress Tala!Her gaze dropped, and her smile changed just slightly to one of greeting. Guardsman Adam. Seems I found the right place.The Guardsman was wearing loose-fitting clothes, clearly meant for exercise, and he had a light sheen of sweat to him.Spent the morning training? She stepped forward, into the building.Mistress Tala. This way, please. He led her deeper into the building and down a series of interconnecting hallways. As they walked, he used a cloth to wipe much of the sweat from his head and arms. Thank you for coming.Thank you for being willing to train me.He grinned. This is a rare opportunity. Master Rane is already here. He added the last as an afterthought.They came to one of the instructional rooms and entered together. Some thirty men and women, all in their twenties, sat facing the front of the room. They were all dressed similarly to Adam, and they each seemed to have a notebook and a means of taking notes, and each was doing just that.A much older man, at least in his fifties, sat at the front of the room, also facing the last remaining occupant.Rane was just finishing his sentence as they walked in. -the force is therefore redirected, or avoided, without actually being guided.In the silence that followed, Rane waved to Tala, smiling, and she waved back.The older man stood. Thank you, Master Rane. Can anyone tell me a key take-away from his last point?A woman near the front spoke up. He doesnt have to concern himself with dodging, because his opponents attack causes him to be moved out of harms way.The older man frowned. Yes and no. He will not need to focus on taking the action, that is correct. However, if any attack met by that defense, no matter how small, causes him to alter direction to mitigate the damage, that means that Master Rane is constantly subject to forces outside his direct control. He would have to be even more aware of the incoming attacks than if he simply moved out of the way beforehand or braced to take the blow.The woman frowned in turn. Then, why is it better?A man in the back of the room spoke loudly in response, Because unexpected movement is better than unexpected injuries.A few people smiled at that, and Rane nodded, responding, Precisely. I could close my eyes and simply stand still and be fairly safe. Id be utterly ineffective, but safe from mundane attack.The main instructor smiled. So, you will each write up a basic overview of a fighting style for Master Rane, and in coming classes, we will compare it to what he has actually been using.Rane smiled. I hope to learn something. I make no claim at perfection.The instructor had noticed Tala and Adam entering, and he turned to them now. This is Mistress Tala, and you all know instructor Adam.Those present returned a chorus of greetings.The central project of the next two weeks will be creating, then perfecting, a fighting style for Mistress Tala, here. That portion of your assignment for today will be to construct a series of tests to determine the scope and limit of her abilities, so that we can build a style that maximizes her effectiveness. Mistress Tala.I guess he noticed my missing iron salve. That was fine, she wasnt trying to hide the fact. She shook her head, in response. I really dont have time.He seemed to deflate a bit.With effort, she kept from either sighing or rolling her eyes. Ill have more time tomorrow, but just a bit.He perked up. Lunch, then?She quirked a smile. After whatever crazy assessments they come up with? Ill probably need it.Its a plan, then. He smiled.Sounds good. She glanced ahead, to the archway back out onto the training grounds. I really do have to go, but thank you for asking.He smiled and waved her off. See you, tomorrow.* * *Ok, Tala. Avoiding it wont help. Lets get this over with.Tala held herself stiffly upright, as she walked into the Caravanners Guildhall, marching straight through to one of the main desks near the back of the atrium.Good morning, Mistress. How can I assist you, today? The young man, sitting behind the desk, smiled warmly at her.Im Mistress Tala. I was informed I needed to meet with a senior guild official? Come on, come on. This is not what I want to do No. She needed to be here. This had to be dealt with.Mistress Tala He looked through a large appointment book on the desk in front of him. He turned the page, beginning to frown. Mistress Tala Im sorry, Im not seeing you in the collated calendar. Who is your appointment scheduled with and when did you schedule your appointment for?Tala hesitated, then felt herself coloring. Oh I didnt know I needed to schedule it. I was simply told one was needed. Whenever I was ordered to attend a disciplinary meeting, I had to go right away, and I was seen right away This, apparently, was different. I have to schedule my own session to be reprimanded. She almost snorted a laugh. I guess, I should have expected that.The young man checked a few more pages, then looked up, apologetically. It doesnt seem to be here, and no Senior Official is available, today. Who were you supposed to meet with, again? Perhaps, I can get you in tomorrow.Tala opened her mouth to answer, then closed it. I have no idea.The young man seemed to understand. I see. Thats more than fine. He nodded, consolingly. Id recommend reaching out to your Guild handler, or point of contact, and ask them to schedule the required meeting.Tala nodded, feeling incredibly embarrassed. Ill Ill do that. Thank you.Happy to assist, Mistress. I wish I could have done more. You have a good day.* * *Ten minutes later, Tala had shaken off her embarrassment and was again walking the streets of Bandfast, this time heading towards the Constructionists Guild. As she was walking, she realized that the pace of her reading was much faster than expected. She could now read much faster than even on the recent caravan trip.I guess the enhancements made my movements easier, freeing up more of my mind to focus on reading? It was as good a reason as any other she could think of.The books were a masterwork in-and-of-themselves, at least the one she was currently referencing was. It contained detailed schematics of each organ or organ system as they were discussed, coupled with cleverly rendered schema, illustrating their three-dimensional nature, along with how they would accomplish what they did. It was, unsurprisingly, incredibly detailed on the how. If Tala didnt understand what, and how, the magic was supposed to work, it wouldnt function. In the worst case, it could malfunction and destroy the parts of her body inscribed.I didnt really expect to delve back into anatomy and physiology so deeply, so soonShed always preferred physics, hence the nature of her offensive spell-forms, but the work Holly would be doing now was incredibly dependent on Talas second favorite subject, just as shed suspected it would.Im just glad that I already had specific interest and knowledge in the muscular-skeletal system, along with the vascular, or Id have to have done a bunch of research before even yesterdays inscribingsShe sighed. It was fascinating, and Holly had gone out of her way to make the writing engaging, but it was still a dense subject matter.How did she even have time for this?Tala supposed that the general overviews would be common to anyone getting any given organ inscribed, so those would just have to be copied over.And its not like Im the first person to have my organs enhanced. This is probably just an amalgamation of those techniques, slightly modified for my particular make-up.She hesitated, even stopping in the middle of a stride. Wait how did she know the exact dimensions of all my organs to make properly shaped spell-forms She placed a hand on the back of her neck.How much is this script analyzing and recording?She thought back. Holly said that it would monitor everything about me She groaned. Well, I did understand what it would doI suppose I just didnt assume it would be literalShe sighed, continuing on her way and returning most of her attention to the current portion of this book.Tala finished the first subject in her list-to-review by the time she reached the Constructionist Guilds local office. Closing the book with a satisfying thunk, she tucked it into Kit and looked up at the beautifully designed faade. Rust me, they really didnt spare on the expense of this place.While highly detailed, the elements were tastefully interwoven to give an overall inviting, if humbling, atmosphere. Tala smiled as she walked to the large front doors.There werent a lot of other patrons at the moment, but that made some sense. This guild didnt have as much to do as the Caravanners. Thoughare the Wainwrights a subsidiary? That made sense, and most guilds worked in that way. Guilds of guildsah, society. How wonderful your complications.She found herself grinning.As she stepped across the threshold, she felt a tingle in her keystone, indicating magic had been directed her way, and a wave of power pulsed out from behind her. There was no specific spell-form to it, but it had the overpowering sense of an infrared aura. Did the door just scan me and announce my classification?An attendant appeared, entering from the side. Mistress, how can we serve you today? His eyes glanced to Terry, and there was definite curiosity, but he didnt comment beyond his initial question.Tala pulled out the sheet that Lyn had written up for her. Hello, yes. I was sent here by Mistress Lyn of the Caravanners Guild. She said I should ask for Master Boma?The attendant paused, power rippling over his face as he looked at her. I apologize Mistress, but Master Boma usually does not attend to the needs of those below Archon He was clearly torn. Mistress Lyn sent you, you say?Tala nodded.Very well, let me check with him, and see if that name changes anything for him.Thank you.You may find it more comfortable to wait in there. He pointed off to one side. There is a waiting area through that archway, and youll find refreshments available, while you wait.With a smile and slight bow, the man turned and went back the way he had come.Well, Terry, lets see what refreshments they have for us.
