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The Calamitous Bob 201: Elemental
🕑 Added 2024-05-03 17:41:19 +0000 UTCViv skirted the edge of the Viziman Ocean, over white cliffs and long expanses of wind-swept grass, where herds of beasts grazed. Shepherds and patrols spotted her but none moved. The nearby Zazas was an allied city, and its javelin throwers knew her well. Soon, the cliffs abruptly dove towards the natural harbor of Zazas and its many fishing boats. Stone buildings formed a nicely ordered town in the middle of the wilderness.
“Wait, is that…”
Two familiar shapes had dropped anchor near the largest piers. She recognized the distinct squat shape of ancient Harrakan ships, though those two had been renovated to be slicker. Where a bulky aft castle once stood, now a flat deck gave the old carracks the appearance of more modern frigates. Their deck enchantment circles were recognizable even from up here. They also flew the Harrakan flag. And to think they had once been decrepit relics of a bygone age rotting in Frostbay’s harbor. She immediately dove to greet them, recognizing some of the Remnants sailors as she approached. A figure stood on the deck running calibration.
“Sidjin!”
“Viv! Hahaha.”
She hadn’t seen him in a while. He looked good. More confident.
“Welcome aboard the newly renovated Neriad’s Mercy, and Efestar’s Redemption. What do you think?” he asked, pointing at the ships.
“They look amazing. I can’t believe they’re already fully functional. Didn’t you have issues with the sails?”
“Yes, but I found a solution. A very fancy solution, I might add. We have decided that the looms would be used to provide more thread for the distant villages, so they could have better cheap clothes. To get the sails, I visited my old friends the merl.”
Viv watched the white sails neatly folded on the masts. They glittered in the noon sun. She could have worn a dress in this material, so neat and tightly woven it was.
“Wait, don’t tell me…”
“Spider silk! It turns out that it’s an amazing material. It’s even a little bit elastic. We’ve enchanted it with reinforcement to avoid tears. It’s still very vulnerable to fire though, so it’s a work in progress.”
Sidjin continued the tour.
“The enchantment circle to control various functions. Sadly, the ships were not designed around that so we won’t get great results, but it should still significantly help with navigation. Ah, and we haven’t had the time for gun ports, or even a gun deck. I have decided to remove the ballistae for now. We won’t need them anyway.”
“Those look good for transition ships.”
Sidjin gave her an offended look.
“You know what I mean. You turned those ancient carcasses into functional boats,” Viv said.
“Don’t talk about my babies that way.”
“Come oooon.”
He laughed, the pretend annoyance falling away.
“I am just feeling hopeful seeing all those things we thought lost getting revived and improved upon. The Old Empire once stood as a reminder that we fall just as we rise, that much could be lost in an instant. Things have changed now.
“They sail well, and we needed that. Zazas will trade with us.”
“You sailed north and then east, right? From Frostbay? That means you saw the other side of the deadlands?”
Sidjin’s expression turned serious. North of the remnants were strips of land that should have escaped the disaster, nestled between an ocean and the high mountain peaks that surrounded the Harrakan heartlands. Solfis did have Imperial records that spoke of this place but Viv had been in no hurry to check if there was anybody there. New Harrak was still in the process of digesting the Remnants, and checking a new place was a sure fire way to get embroiled in a new ‘adventure’ that would leave her with a new group of people to drive Lady Azar crazy.
From Sidjin’s expression, it didn’t look like it was going to be the case.
“We found empty villages, very few bodies but… nothing else. Harrakan estates overgrown with small trees, barns collapsed, empty villages surrounded by crumbling fences. No humans that we could see. The “End of the World” town referred to in ancient texts was completely empty, the walls still standing tall over a coffin. There were minor spots of fire damage… it could have been anything. We didn’t stop to explore.”
She nodded. There should have been a couple of thousand people spread there across a limited strip of arable land. The “End of the World” used to be the local equivalent of a resort town, mostly for exiled nobles or people seeking a reprieve from the world, but not its luxuries. The fact they disappeared without a trace hinted at something sinister.
“Welp, not urgent, not my problem.”
“It might become a problem one day.”
“One thing at a time. First, Rakan, then the next disaster.”
Sidjin nodded.
“I have taken it upon myself to start building ships, the kind that can travel far and carry much so we may trade with cities as distant as Helock. The portal network is working but we are starting to get issues: the world doesn’t have enough mages.”
“What do you mean?” Viv replied with a frown.
“It takes a significant amount of mana to power a single portal,” Sidjin explained with a pained expression. “Major cities can afford to have mages activate it at set times, but the farther the network reaches, the more mages must dedicate themselves to keeping it alive. There are limits to how many places we can reach. There is also the matter of carried weight. It is much easier to transport large shipments by boat than by cart. It might just be more profitable to use ships to trade with Zazas, for example, especially since portal use is taxed when used by traders.”
Damn. It looked like Viv wasn’t getting away from having to introduce trains. It was logical though. Magic was too caster-dependent, and caster were in very limited supply themselves. If she wanted to introduce modernity to Param, then she would have to find other sources of energy.
Unfortunately, it looked like it was going to be coal, at least at first. They were still too far away from electricity. Hell, she was still trying to figure out how to make accurate instruments.
“If only I’d been an engineer,” she bemoaned.
“Ah but then you would have been a terrible politician!”
They chuckled. Viv was just happy there weren’t any engineers in earshot. That was a real issue though. The yries were great at improving existing design, and they also had a kind of placid patience that lent itself well to the pursuit of perfection. Innovators they were not. Well, except for Lak-Tak. But he was only interested in weapons.
“Let’s just take things slow. More ships wouldn’t hurt. We can get good money from trade tariffs.”
“Yes, and now…”
The two of them turned to see Rakan approach with someone Viv hadn’t expected: Lana, the blue mana specialist. The short woman had picked a simple blue travel robe for the slightly chilly weather, yet even in a more rustic garb, she still looked pristine and perfectly composed. Only her expression broke the flawless persona: she was clearly worried. They both were.
“Ready to fix your leaking core?” Viv asked Rakan.
The genius mage nodded with frenetic energy. It had been years since that fateful day on the sand of Helock’s arena. He had to be more than eager.
“As well as can be. We brought some more money — along with what you already have. I just hope she won’t ask me to go on some quest to slay a giant or some such nonsense.”
With Viv’s luck so far, she wouldn’t be so sure.
“Don’t worry. I’ve got some nice slaying-related titles. I’d help!”
“Yes. I hope it doesn’t come to that.”
He shivered.
“Just imagine. It could be an underwater monster!”
“Oh yes, I remember that you do not like the sea very much.”
It was the understatement of the century. Even now, he was a bit pale.
“Some cosmic irony, this is. My salvation is in the middle of the ocean! Why would I be tossed in a place so hostile to human life?”
“I know how it feels,” Viv said, nodding vigorously.
“I will retire to my bunk for now. Let me know when the ship departs, so that I may say farewell to the land,” he added.
“He’s being a little bit dramatic,” Viv commented as they left.
“Hallurians have warm blood, even the exiles,” Sidjin said. “I will check the inventory, but do come see me later?”
That sounded like a polite withdrawal. Viv returned her attention to Lana, who was doing her own version of squirming by staying perfectly still.
“You’re going to see the elemental as well?”
“Please do not be mad,” Lana blurted. “About my last minute decision to come.”
Viv studied the blue mage. She was doing better since helping her fellow mages, but the specter of Elunath’s abuse still hung over her like a shadow. There was no magic to erase years of conditioning. Even now, she was steeling herself to face Viv’s explosion of anger — an emotion Viv wasn’t feeling at all.
“I think I’ve made it clear that my lieutenants have a lot of autonomy. If you think it is best and someone is holding the fort at home, then I have no objections to you coming. Is this about magic? I imagine our would-be host knows as much as any person in the world.”
“There is… there is more.”
Viv waited. It seemed important, but Lana started by deflecting.
“It is true that we mages rely more on academic research. I am one of the only blue mages in New Harrak, so my progress has… somewhat stalled. We do not have a very good reputation with the academic circles of Helock.”
“Yeah, I’m partly to blame.”
“But the truth is…”
She hesitated. Viv drew a circle of silence, which only made Lana smile bitterly.
“Oh, why am I being so silly? I have… the potential to be like her.”
“A blue elemental archmage?”
“Yes. Not any time soon. Sardanal’s blessings, I will be lucky if it happens before I become white of hair, but it can happen, and I would like to prepare. Ask questions. If she will allow it.”
“Of course, I understand. Have you talked to Abe? He helped me.”
“I did. Of course. Unfortunately, every aspect change is different. Abenezigel was able to help you because of his deep familiarity with black mana. His insight was truly interesting. Did you… really die?”
“He stabbed me in the heart!”
“That would often do it, yes…”
Her eyes grew worried for a moment.
“I shall ask more. It is said that the Azure Lady harbors mages who wish to withdraw from the world, not just blue mages but others as well. Perhaps she is receptive to talking.”
“Lady Azar mentioned it,” Viv said, recalling one of their many briefings. “She is otherwise reclusive and refuses to be involved in the affairs of the continent. I hope she will talk to us considering those are personal matters.”
“I hope so too. I really do.”
Lana remained guarded for the rest of the conversation while Viv did her best to calm her down with small talk. Lana progressively relaxed once it became clear Viv wasn’t going to berate her. The blue mage was really eager to meet the Azure Lady.
“It is said her palace is half made of water, which flows according to her whim, yet also behaves in ways not dissimilar to stone!”
What a nerd.
***
The talks with Zazas’ ruling couple proved to be relaxing. Those were the only two human leaders actually happy to see Viv show up. It was a refreshing change. Of course, the fact that they only remained independent because of their defensive alliance with New Harrak wasn’t exactly a coincidence but who cared? They had nice biscuits. After a meal where people chewed with their mouths closed, the two ships sailed off west towards its destination: the floating city of the elemental mage.
***
Second Chance sailed back to Helock laden with goods, but Neriad’s Mercy traveled due west, past several cities without stopping. Viv specifically wanted to avoid Helock on account of being an escaped criminal there. And also perhaps for massive damage to their keep and reputation. The trip started without issues though Viv was missing Arthur, who had elected to go back muttering about her investments. She spent a lot of time floating around to practice her mobility since the gray mages had proven she had a lot of room for improvements. Rakan was waiting for her by the railings one fine evening. He looked tense.
“Worried about the treatment?” Viv asked.
It was like the dam had opened.
“I’m worried she would refuse, and I’m also worried she can’t do it. That I’m hoping for nothing, but you know what concerns me, yet should not? I’m worried she might accept.”
“Uh? Why? I thought you really wanted to be cured.”
“Because I have grown used to my handicap. I am compensating adequately now. I have Abe’s staff, which allows me to store mana I can use thus acting as a secondary core. I have my techniques, my habits, my ways of facing the day. I have spent so much time telling myself that I am more than just a broken core, that now that I face the possibility of recovery, all those buried fears are resurfacing. What if she botches the operation, and I end up unable to perform magic at all? I would have sacrificed a good life for the chance of a great life, and lost both. I am… scared.”
Viv came to stand next to him, unsure of what to say.
“Hmmm. It’s normal to be afraid.”
“I know. And I know you’re looking for something to say to make me feel better. That is fine. Not every problem has a solution. I will be afraid until we end this, one way or another, and that is fine.”
“Then I’ll just be here for you.”
Rakan’s fingers gripped the wood.
“If I don’t make it, tell my sister —”
“Don’t start.”
Rakan chuckled. Mana danced around him as it poured and then leaked out of his damaged core. The blue core glowed on his borrowed staff.
“I just love magic so much. Every time I see my pupils make progress, I feel a pang of jealousy that they can so easily do what I have lost the ability for. I love them. I love teaching. I just want to be rid of this bitterness eating at me. I just don’t want it to cost me everything. Does that make me a bad person?”
“I don’t think feeling things ever make you a good or bad person. Good and evil are always about choices. You don’t choose how you feel about things, only how you react to them. You’re a good man, Rakan, and it was a pleasure watching you grow. Now let’s get you fixed, then you can be free again. One way or another, yes?”
“I changed my mind. Sometimes it really helps to talk to someone, after all. Now go and get your dinner. I’ll be looking out for monsters.”
***
It was colder. The deep rains of an early fall flailed the deck without mercy, drumming on the spider sails in a constant effort. The ship bobbed up and down waves taller than it was on its path, and the power of the wind forced the sailors to riff the sails or risk capsizing. Protected in a shield bubble, Viv enjoyed the sight of the unleashed elements while she kept an eye on things. Mana echoed what her eyes could see when the world roared, and this was a danger in itself. At night, old sea dogs spoke of creatures who could call the storm and swallowed islands whole. She wasn’t sure but this storm seemed natural enough. In fact, the chaos unfolding around her held a wild beauty of its own, a constant change without purpose, not even its own survival. Many of the young recruits were a little green around the gills at night, while they ate a thankfully warm meal. This made their crusty seniors laugh.
“‘twas a time when our ships traveled all the way to Vizim! It will happen again, you’ll see.”
Viv was just happy they had ships now. That night, she fell asleep in Sidjin’s arms while old wood groaned around them.
This was nice and lasted all of three days before Viv got bored to tears. Fortunately, the Mercy was making good time, and they soon ranged north of Halluria. Viv watched the desolate sand beaches and rocky expanses wondering if there would be people here one day. The villages were few and destitute, though whether it was due to the invasion or just the normal state of things, she couldn’t say. The next morning, the navigator came to see her.
“The floating palace should be around. We will travel to find it. It is said that if the lady wishes to—”
“Oh it’s there,” Viv interrupted, pointing to the north east.
The navigator didn’t seem convinced.
“It’s magic,” Viv explained.
“Your majesty, far from me to —”
“Her presence lingers in the froth above the waves as they crest, in the humidity carried by the damp wind blowing without pause. Long tendrils of power, like grasping branches, spread out across the infinite vastness of the ocean. None can approach without her knowledge for she is the sea itself, her skin like the surface, her bones like tidal currents, her sinews, great beasts that swim in the dark depths where the sun never reaches. I, another elemental archmage, feel her attention like a hand upon my neck. Okay?”
“Setting course, milady.”
“Okay, great.”
The agile shape of Neriad’s Mercy turned, picking up speed as Lana climbed to the deck. She, too, felt the overwhelming presence of the elemental archmage of the blue. Viv wasn’t lying when she said she felt the woman’s essence seeping through reality. The mana all around was blue and gray merging together. Viv made no efforts to hide herself. Instead, she pulsed her mana from time to time as a polite greeting. There was no response but nothing came to stop them, and so Viv deducted they would be tolerated for now. A chill crawled down her spine when she thought about all those people she cared about aboard this ship. The Azure Lady was not known for her violence, yet it was also true that no one had been able to threaten her in a long time. What if she took exception to Viv? After all, one elemental archmage had already fallen at her hand.
Her mood didn’t improve once they spotted a dot on the horizon: the palace, at last. A long view spell offered an image that didn’t make sense at first. As they approached and the image grew clearer, Viv couldn’t help herself but whistle in admiration. Now that was why she loved this place despite all the dickery and monsters: magic wielded to create something wonderful.
The palace stood at the center of a sphere of serenity on an unruly ocean, a pearl sitting on the horizon, untouchable. Mundane material merged with strange columns of solidified water so placid they looked made of glass. Wilder tubes danced slowly between islands of strange architectures that defied both gravity and the properties of the materials that composed them. Here, the difference between fountain and sculpture grew hazy until Viv couldn’t tell which was which. It was land of impossibilities frozen in existence by the will of someone truly powerful. The entire structure shone like fireworks in Viv’s mana sight. Shock and wonder traveled across the crew until everyone had gathered on the deck, mesmerized by the otherworldly beauty. Viv couldn't blame them when the ship slowed down, unattended. She was just as caught as they were.
“Alright, enough ogling. Get us in,” she finally said when it was clear nobody else wanted to.
“You heard the lady! Move!”
Neriad’s Mercy approached its destination at slow speed, Viv eager to see if something would happen. Lana, Sigjin, and Rakan stood by her side near the prow. She felt a tickle once they entered the bubble. The Azure Lady’s presence grew so overwhelming that Viv felt like she was reaching into her personal space, like touching the face of a stranger. Once again, Viv pulsed her aura softly, but received no response. There was a clear floating wooden pier at the edge of the maze of water structures, and that is where the ship stopped. Viv saw there was a welcoming community but that wasn’t what got her attention.
From up close, the palace definitely lost its charm. She was a child in an amusement park who accidentally walked into the staff area. The marble revealed itself to be stucco, the sparkles, cheap glitter, and Prince Charming was an underpaid employee on a smoke break. Yes, the water constructs were breathtaking, but the wood panels and other real stuff hung by a hair. It was all old and decrepit. In the distance, she saw men and women in strange suits carrying baskets of fish. The material was weird and ropey.
Wait, were those made of kelp?
A movement brought her attention back to the welcoming committee. One of the people was leaving. A woman from her gait. Viv didn’t recognize her, but she was a mage. Before Viv could consider her options, the head of the delegation stepped in.
He was a tall man with wiry muscles and a great saber at his back, of an ethnic group Viv had never seen before. His skin was grayish under a healthy tone. His high cheekbones made him look gaunt, though he seemed healthy.. He also possessed this sharp presence Viv had come to associate with blade masters like Solar or Selyen, the so-called Dragonslayer Reborn. Hostility radiated from him in great waves she felt in her soul, though it didn’t feel personal.
“Who comes? Who dares approach our sanctum without permission?” he asked in the northern tongue.
Anger rose in Viv’s chest, though she quelled it. He was merely defending his home.
“My name is Viviane of Harrak,” she said, going for the least pretentious option. “This is my paramour, Sidjin the Red Mist, and archmages Lana the Tide-Weaver and Rakan of the Four colors.”
“Actually, those are nicknames,” Sidjin whispered in her ear.
“I know I’m just trying to avoid dropping too many titles. Stop interrupting me in front of the thug. Ahem. We come seeking the assistance of the Azure Lady for a… medical reason.”
This seemed to take the man aback.
“A medical reason? Pah! It matters not. Do you not know that you must seek approval with our representative in Helock before approaching this sanctum?”
“We’re personae no grata because of some terrible diplomatic incident. It involved a town official abusing his power and me taking grave exception to it.”
Dammit! She was trying to be diplomatic! The threat didn’t go unheard. A wave of intimidation pushed against her, though it felt more like an instinctual response than a real attack. She was interested to feel that this guy had his own expert skill! It felt like he got it slaying great beasts, somehow.
Her own soul replied with the uncaring cold of the scale. He could bark. It was all the same to her.
She could bite.
Wait, no, bad Viv. Diplomacy.
“But I digress. I am sorry I could not offer advance notice,” she lied. “I was hoping we could talk to the Azure Lady regardless. We meant no disrespect. We will wait here for her decision,” she said, sensing that being too assertive would piss the guard off even more.
The man didn’t exactly mellow, but at least the intimidation pulled back. Viv was wearing her crown in a clear display of her rank, yet she was being very polite. It was enough to avoid escalations. Before he replied, a single pulse expanded through the air. Most of the people on the pier shivered, a sign many were at least a little sensitive to mana. That was an impressive number. Viv wasn’t sure but she guessed there might be as many as five hundred people spread out across the multiple structures. Even now, she could see many going about with their days.
“The lady will receive you,” the blade master whispered between gritted teeth.
Viv allowed herself a smile. They were off to a great start! She didn’t wait for the gangplank to walk off the railing, followed by Rakan and Lana.
“I’ll stay with the ship!” Sidjin said.
He and the blade master exchanged glares. It was probably wiser to keep someone near the ship, just in case.
“Follow me,” the blade master said.
Viv didn’t try to inspect him; it would be foolish. The grim warrior guided them out of the pier under the curious gaze of the crowd. As Vif had felt, many were mages, some used to fighting. They wore an eclectic collection of clothes that had mostly seen better days. Some used a strange, dry fabric that Viv was sure was some sort of algae, but the process had obviously not been perfected yet. Now that Viv was paying attention, she realized the mages were just as unusual. She noted Northerners, Enorians and Baranese, quite a few Vizimans and some of those ashy gray people with high cheekbones Viv was starting to suspect were Shadowland dwellers. They were an extremely reclusive bunch who rarely left their faraway continents, so it was strange seeing them here out in the maritime boonies.
Nobody from beyond the isthmus. It looked like the Nemeti had complete control over the population there.
Viv returned her attention to the group when Lana leaned towards her, speaking in Imperial.
“I think I saw… but no, nevermind. I must be mistaken.”
“Recognized someone?”
Lana merely shook her head, and Viv didn’t press the issue. They’d reached the first main water building. She took the steps up trying not to show how cool she thought it was that the water barely rippled under her boots. Monumental doors opened to a circular stone vestibule adorned with a magnificent mosaic, a work of art that covered the entire floor. Viv didn’t want to think about the power required to keep this thing afloat. Where the windows ought to be, flowing figures made of crystalline waters showed detailed scenes. Those were actually enchanted into the stone walls rather than maintained through sheer force of will, and Viv could see why: they were incredibly detailed. One showed a brilliant civilization building cyclopean structures, the second, a terrible civil war with both sides using strange machines. A third displayed volcanoes erupting in the background while the beleaguered people rushed to a flotilla of ships. The last showed a flourishing city floating on the ocean.
Viv got the impression that the last one might be a tad embellished. The place was damp, cold, and it didn’t smell particularly good either. The stones of the mosaic were dulled by age. Some were missing.
The blade master walked confidently through another set of doors. Outside, the ocean was flat as a mirror. One of the tendrils floated lazily over the placid surface. It looked uncomfortably like a tentacle.
The blade master walked in. A strong current carried him to a larger island with surprising grace.
The Harrakans gave each other looks. Viv was the first to go in. If anything went wrong, she would be fine.
Her first experience of the fast waterway was that fuck, it was cold. Her second experience was akin to someone grabbed by the collar. It only took five seconds for her to land again and she hated every moment of it. She was completely dry on arrival though, every drop of moisture reabsorbed by the strange conduit.
Ok so yeah, it was cool, but what was wrong with stairs? Or a nice bridge? Fucking gimmicks. She pushed down her annoyance by telling herself it was all novel and fancy but seriously, did people just dip their nethers in cold ocean juice every time they wanted to go greet a neighbor? And she thought commuting in Paris was bad. Jesus.
The blade master was waiting with a smirk. Viv’s poker face irked him, which provided a nice soothing sensation to Viv’s bruised patience. Before her stood a palace of flowing water and ice that only used a minimal amount of material. Steps formed under her feet.
The ballroom was strange, and reminded her of the entrance’s mosaic with its ancient stone appearance. It wasn’t any architecture she’d seen in this place so far. if she had to draw a parallel, it would be with Mesopotamian cultures: the style was heavy, unadorned except for large statues. The entire palace appeared designed for a race of titans, yet the stairs were definitely for human feet.
Quietly now, Viv followed the blade master deeper into the heart of the Azure Lady’s domain. She could feel the presence of the elemental archmage everywhere around her. She was walking into the maw of an ancient and powerful caster. It was strange how quiet things were, considering. Barely a whisper. It was peaceful but in a cold way, like a drowned man was peaceful. She shook that metaphor out of her head. The throne room stood at the top of the stairs and it was surprisingly cozy compared to the rest. Lacquered wood blocked the view of most of the surrounding water.
Waiting for them on the throne was the azure lady. As soon as Viv laid eyes on her, she was convinced this might be the oldest human she’d ever come across by an order of magnitude. It wasn’t her face, because her mature elegance shared the high cheekbones of the blade master. Her smooth pink skin even looked healthier than that of her compatriots. Long black hair flowed over her scalp as if borne by an unseen current.
It was the mana. It bled from every pore, especially from the eyes which were two deep blue sapphires, unfocused for now. Power radiated from her in a cold wave. Viv felt like she was watching a glass statue painted over with the appearance of humanity, but none of its substance. It was therefore a surprise when the woman addressed them. Her voice was deep and pleasant.
“I bid thee welcome.”
Viv blinked at the use of ancient Harrakan — not Imperial, but the slightly different language used in historical records Solfis had kept in his memory banks. Even the intonation felt strange to her ears.
“Welcome, yes, to my domain. Prithee, excuse my lack of reaction, for I was in the depths of a meditative trance. I am informed that thou didst not herald thy coming? Fret thee not. I shalt not take umbrage, for I am certain thou didst not seek to cause any manner of grief. Thine chambers shall be prepared erelong where you can refresh thyselves. I will invite thee to a… a…”
She frowned. A look of concern finally changed the blade master’s expression from sour to something less aggravating.
“A banquet, yes. There we shall sup on the finest of cod, kelp soup, and seared mollusks for thine enjoyment.”
That didn’t seem too bad. Viv just didn’t think they had butter here, sadly. Unless it was, errr, whale butter.
Was that even a thing?
“Thank you very much, Azure Lady,” Viv said in the ensuing silence.
It sounded like the right thing to say, though Viv couldn’t be sure. The woman really didn’t move at all. She wasn’t even breathing.
“Thou are quite pleasant for a killer. I must inquire, why hast thou sought out retreat?”
“We came to request your help,” Viv said, stepping to the side to point at the two Harrakan archmages. “Lana wishes to consult you, while Rakan here needs your assistance.”
“Thine core leaks most direly, young man.”
“I was hoping you could help,” he whispered. “Though your time is precious. If there are any tasks I could accomplish to convince you to heal my core…”
“That is within my power…”
The lady frowned, perhaps trying to remember something.
“We have not come empty-handed. Although your help is not something that can be valued with mortal currency, we are still willing to compensate you adequately for the time spent.”
Viv grabbed the box in her side bag. showing the glint of gold. She handed it to the blade master who received it with feverish fingers.
“Thou wouldst offer gold?”
“Two hundred and fifty gold talents, payable immediately. We understand the value of your work, and believe this is a fair and respectful price,” Viv said.
She stopped herself from smiling when the Azure Lady gave the blade master a slow glance. Whatever passed between them, it wasn’t done with mana.
“I assent,” she said.
Viv knew it. The old immortal monster was flat broke! No quest for thee, Rakan!
Comments
Darius Sanguna
Wasn't the relationship with Helock getting better? As far as I remember the Academy more or less cheered her on when she offed the arch-dick of earth and when they had the alliance meeting in Mornyr the Helockian ambassador gave indication that the government was mellowing out when it comes to her.
ItWasIDIO!!
So she stays out of politics cause she probably sucks at it & lives the hippie community life at least she seems nice enough
elijah pickett
Hahahahhaha😂
M. Lampi
Magic was too caster-dependent, and caster were in very limited supply themselves. ==> Magic was too caster-dependent, and casters were in very limited supply themselves. “Ah but then you would have been a terrible politician!” ==> “Ah, but then you would have been a terrible politician!” In one place the ship is called "Efestar’s Redemption", and another place it is called "Second Chance". forced the sailors to riff the sails or risk capsizing. ==> forced the sailors to reef the sails or risk capsizing. “Oh it’s there,” Viv interrupted, pointing to the north east. ==> “Oh, it’s there,” Viv interrupted, pointing to the north east. Viv saw there was a welcoming community but that wasn’t what got her attention. ==> Viv saw there was a welcoming committee but that wasn’t what got her attention. made him look gaunt, though he seemed healthy.. ==> made him look gaunt, though he seemed healthy. We’re personae no grata because of some terrible diplomatic incident. ==> We’re personae non gratae because of some terrible diplomatic incident. As Vif had felt, many were mages, ==> As Viv had felt, many were mages, Outside, the ocean was flat as a mirror. ==> Inside was an ocean as flat as a mirror. Ok so yeah, it was cool, but what was wrong with stairs? ==> Ok, so yeah, it was cool, but what was wrong with stairs? Waiting for them on the throne was the azure lady. ==> Waiting for them on the throne was the Azure Lady.
Joshua Aarons
Oooooh I hope we get content dump. It's been 2 weeks now I think. I'm getting excited.
Joshua Aarons
You're so smart @The Uub. Viv gaining access to the potential knowledge and tutelage of another elemental with greater experience than her could up being a huge boon. The trade here would be one of knowledge. The Azure Lady would learn how to effectively run her Oasis in a way that would generate profit and thrive and Viv would learn ways to better her magic while gaining potential allies.
The Uub
I read these comments and many of you speak of trade. A way to make at least an acquaintance with a foreign power instead of an enemy. However, trade can really only happen with an existing economy. The denizens of "Waterworld" Oasis are living at a subsistence level. They gather from the sea their material for clothing and baskets, and feast on the bounty of the sea, likely bolstered by the sea-life the Azure Lady causes to swim towards the oasis. What can Harrak receive for their gold? What can Harrak expect in return for their wooden, metal, and mineral trade goods? The very gold they gifted to the Lady? It seems the only renewable resource not easily gotten closer to home is access to mages, and the experience of an Elemental. At best this may be able to be parlayed into asking the Azure Lady to move the Oasis closer to the coastlines of New Harrak and a mutual beneficial relationship where the sea's monsters are held at bay by the Azure Lady for monetary compensation, then Bob and company can revive those coastal lands and eventually the Harrakan fleet. It would also bolster the power which Harrak weilds against other foes, especially the Nemeti, in case they are attacked by sea.
Trevor Mergen
Thanks!
Venalitor
Perhaps. . . A trade agreement may be in order should this ancient elemental and her enclave of mages and warriors be able to reliably dredge up anything of worth. Whether that be from the depths of the sea or the depths of their minds.
The Uub
Those in power fear what they cannot control. Her personal power is beyond mortal ken, so they build mystique around it, exaggerate her feats, make her influence seem as if it is to be feared. Having the earth elemental in Helock proper, using his power to influence amd control other powerful families and scions is a boone in that its easy to build off a local legend.
Kitty kat
You're too nearsighted, this is an amazing chance! While I agree that they should pay directly for services rendered, they have a lot of things to offer each other and would be an excellent long-term investment!
the btrflyz
I don't know if these people are a solid loan investment; they need the ability to repay with interest. Better to pay them directly for services rendered or maybe unique resources. I bet the water elemental archmage knows some expert boat builders, for Harrakan Navy 2.0
Emily Gurnavage
Just seems like different paths to power, Godhood and Elementals. From what we know of the current pantheons ascension over the old, they were just normal human adventurers at one point. They didnt wield magic either, apart from enchanted gear. Swords, shields, daggers, a bow, a mace - they were mundane combatants when mortal. They rose to Godhood due to the vast quantities of Faith the remnants of humanity had in them, no? Gather enough Faith and you eventually have too strong of a soul to be contained in a mortal shell anymore and ascend to the next plane of existence. The one where souls, force of will, and Faith determine most things. With the Faith Viv has been gathering, she may one day be a contendor for both paths to power. How they may conflict though is another question. Also doubt the small group of Nemetti and very few human converts will be enough to ever achieve Godhood off of. Surely she would need tens of thousands worshipping truly for years before reaching that point. And in a world where the Gods actually respond to you at times, it would be a hard sell to get people worshipping a living person instead of a real God.
Emily Gurnavage
"Just" losing touch with her humanity. "Just" Thats kind of a definition for crazy, lol. Even if its natural for Elementals, its still cause for concern. Could botch Rakans surgery, suddenly decide she cant stand a black Elemental in her domain anymore, snap at some perceived slight related to social mannerisms from a millennia ago, etc.
Emily Gurnavage
@Kenny Considering that Helock was "unofficially" ruled by that Earth Elemental until very recently - that sounds quite plausible. He didn't seem to like the idea of any other Elemental Archmages existing unless magically bound to his service, so one more powerful than him and of an opposing element was prolly a big threat in the back of his mind even if she has been in seclusion since before he was even born.
Emily Gurnavage
For Senko. Unfortunately, I dont believe the portal network can stretch that far without there being a chain of nodes leading there. Its been a minute, but I THINK it works with innactive portals placed without a mage to open it or keep it open though. But still needs that chain. iirc Viv had to place a bunch when her army marched through the forest early on in the story. And I think she wanted trade agreements with X just so the network could stretch to Y at one point. During the Holy City meeting chapters. So maybe she could daisy chain a bunch across the ocean, or across the coast of Halluria on the way back. . Regular boats though - like the ones Sidjin repaired - could do the trick.
Kitty kat
Oh, Arthur is gonna be absolutely livid at her missed opportunity!
M. Gunnarsson
She doesn't need to bully this mark, just needs to out-smart her. It shouldn't be very hard, the Azure Lady doesn't seem like the financially literary sort, consdiering how easily an elemental archmage should be able to earn money yet she has none. I'm guessing she just doesn't want to bother with worldly things like money, and ended up letting some conman in Helock handle her assets.
Oskatat
Well, to be fair, would there be any monster Rakan could slay that the Azure Lady couldn't?
Lijwent
She was "working" below a bastard with power, so she has the clouts it gave her
Tsorov
Depending on your viewpoint, that is detoriating. For a follower/citizen of a ruler, them becoming totally uninterested in the betterment of the people results in nothing good. Similarily, an Archmage becoming apathetic to his/her domain results in the domain detirioraiting
Arg
Nah, talk to him about Tesla towers and eventually he will come up with the Tesla tank out of command and conquer.
Clifton
Trade is the source of real wealth. If you only have one trade partner they can control prices, and given the isolation, information, that you get. Wouldn't take long to drain even the richest local resources.
Clifton
But who spreads the stories which lead to the fear?
Clifton
Perhaps when she first built it it was flourishing, but given a few centuries of management by someone who inclines toward isolation (no trade) and a lack of useful resources such as wood and stone have resulted in what we see. Less people would also mean more detachment for the elemental too.
Clifton
If she's losing touch with human thinking it probably wouldn't even be that hard. We saw how much Elunath struggled to care about things that didn't directly impact him.
Dale McDenver
Also, what would be of interest to traders? Fish sure ain't it, can get that cheaper directly near the coast (travel time, refrigeration). Maybe exotic beast parts but they would only bring in so much.
Dale McDenver
Money comes with trade but what exactly could they trade? Fish? There not that many of them to get enough to make it worthwhile for traders to go all the way (especially when you factor in the need for mages for refrigeratorion). Even then, I'd say most seem more interested in furthering their magic than plying the trade of a fisherman.
Senko
Your eminence I would not think to offer such crass recompense as a great deed or terrible monster slain. I come bearing cold hard cash, lots of cold hard cash.
Senko
An elemental archmage of immense power plus one teleportation network struggling due to a lack of such power equals trade opportunity.
Senko
We only have one magic user as I recall and they "died" to help humanity. It's quite possible being a warrior/assasin/hunter doesn't carry the same elemental attunement issues.
Denva
I think it's because now she respects Viv. A few chapters ago she apologized of being antagonistic to Viv and because of that she became a folower like the rest of the cast. That comes with obligations to not make your leader angry. And she thinks Viv like other leaders will get angry.
Drew
Probably not. I think it's a mistake to think of it that way. This isn't a case of a deteriorating mind, but (likely) rather one that's shifted to something alien enough to start to disconnect from typical mortal interaction.
RonGAR
"Now that you've got gold...tell me, have you ever heard of the 'Golden Scale Bank'? They have some of the best investment portfolios this side of Harrak. Don't let your talents sit in a chest, put it to work!" 😂
Marian Ch
She seems at best really detached, at worst becoming senile. She clearly doesn't care much for her domain which is more akin to a prettied corpse than a real settlement.
D
Lana is... strange? I mean i remember her more... strong, or at least pretend to be, to the point of being almost hostile to viv. Or was that one of the other girls?
David Morrison
🤔🤣
David Morrison
Yeah, they have annoying habit of not doing that in some place over here
Bum-Sama
Read journey again then. It’s what I’m doing.
Bum-Sama
Doubtful helock would have the navy for that. Already confirmed Vizim is the sea power plus it’s more likely fear keeps most traders away.
David Morrison
Spider silk airships hint hint😏
Amer
Atlanta isn't flat broke. It's just all the money is being poured into cop city before it then gets redirected into it's proper place, the rich people who own huge chunks of the commercial real estate market.
Amer
They don't have a signature element but they all seem to embody their core concepts. What's his face the scout became a god of secrets and travel. Lucky became the embodiment longshot chances. Neriad is righteous war and Maranor is order and conquest. Maybe the trap is not having belief? If no one believes you're more than just some fancy water archmage the only concept you embody is that element.
Leviathon251
OK that's actually hilarious. It definitely makes sense that being all powerful wouldn't make up for being completely cut off and uninterested in trade.
Dietz
....Actually, and thanks for bringing this to my attention Jonathan, none of the Gods we've been introduced to have an element. Concepts, sure, but no 'this is my signature mana, wield it with my blessing mortals' sort of thing. Could the whole 'Elementalization' thing be a trap?
Joshua Aarons
I totally agree. But maybe not 1-2 weeks after I caught up
Pete Magnuson
My first guess would be a lack of concern from the elemental, who seems a bit put-of-touch with the modern world. Perhaps a sense of superiority and preferring to dig everything they need from the water (like all the plant based fabric). So not a lack of ability, just a bit of pride and stubbornness.
lenkite
Curious on why is she broke ?
Jonathan
some of the Remnants sailors some of the Remnants' sailors If you think it is best{comma} and someone is holding the fort at home, then I have no objections to you coming. the power of the wind forced the sailors to riff the sails reef
lenkite
"but Neriad’s Mercy traveled due west" Confused, isn't this going East - esp if they were approaching north of Halluria ?
The Uub
I mean... it's good enough for a re-read...
The Uub
Magic may yet be the only thing still clearly in her awareness. She may even teach Viv a thing or two.
The Uub
"Her presence lingers in the froth of the waves as they crest..." Now that is writing! Putting to words the feeling of the unknowable, the knowledge that leviathan awaits. This is great!
Enif
Maybe. I think this is just generally the direction that most elementals go eventually. They gradually lose their connection to humanity and just become a living locus of intent and magic. We even see this in the gods. The higher your concentration of power the more disconnected and mindless you become, that is unless you have something connecting you to other people. That's why the dark gods are practically insane. They're giant balls of power but their only connection to others is that of pain and suffering and it taints their behavior and mind. The light Gods only maintain their sanity because they have thousands of followers tying them down and keeping them lucid and involved in their affairs.
Jan Verner
My theory is that Hellock keeps her broke by limiting the visitors she get.
DM
Can an elemental arch mage get dementia?
Jonathan
Definitely losing touch. The structure may help her as it's of water but not acting how it should. TBH I really just hope that Viv picks up on the deterioration of elemental arch mages, maybe asks the Azure lady or more likely the swordmaster about how she can prevent it. Clearly the gods got past this step and hopefull all that belief mana will help her stay true to her humanity...or what her believers think she is. I think Lana's glance will be some old enemy or person coming back and making trouble? maybe causes them to trip some law (like breaking the peace) that makes this quest not a speed bump.
BenjiVoid
Vif > viv Also I think it could use a bit more of a pass for cohesion. Especially the start and especially the dialogue. A bit more signposting about who's talking too.
Daemion
It depends on the spiders, the weaving process and the chemical treatment. But yeah, since it's mainly made from proteins... being exposed to heat would start a denaturing process. It would unravel, shrink and melt/turn into smoke. I remember a company that was working on ballistic vests made from artificial spidersilk, according to them the whole thing is extremely complicated.
Daniel B
Clearly a hybrid between Australia and Hollywood. Large, scarry, poisonous and/or venomous, and prone to spontaneous explosions and fireballs.
Emily Gurnavage
Dang, how does an ancient Elemental end up broke. She must have some issues goin on. Surely there is plenty of treasures (natural or not) that she could pull from the ocean like we might pluck a flower. I would expect an older Elemental of any variety to have lots of money making methods.
Diego Rossi
Agreed, I think all of us what to see that. And trading with harrakan probably will help them and Harrakan both.
Robert
Something sinister? Like the last 10 mayors of Atlanta.
Jackjargon
Not surprising middle of the ocean refusing contact(trade) and from the look of the place( bit falling appart) easy math
Enif
I almost feel bad for the azure lady. It sounds like she's detaching even more than that other elemental and that detachment is making it hard for her to know how to manage her domain. It also looks like she's relying on this blade master guy to make a lot of decisions on her behalf.
John Anastacio
Alien world. Different spiders I guess.
Daemion
Arthur isn't in any rush. Once Viv has completed her analysis and risk assessment, Arthur can draw up an investment plan for the Azure Lady. She's a smart business dragon, she knows that the best offer wins, not the rushed first one.
Robert Rosenthal
Finally a woman of class, since obviously gold and Harrakan are the civilized languages 😎
Nait02
Some mistakes I noticed: you called the Efestars Redemtion the Second chance when departing and Sidjin Sigjin when arriving at the palace
Dean Sharpe
Hey, they got 250 Gold Talents for a minor magical procedure, couple hours of work really. Clearly they're coming out ahead here.
Jeanean
"Second Chance sailed back to Helock laden with goods," Earlier, the ship was called "Efestars Redemption"
tr13ze
Thanks for the chapter 😁
Dean Sharpe
"Frieren on the Ocean" energy. Overwhelming magical power, ancient, awkward socially, flat broke, terrible poker face. I'm not saying I want to see Viv gently bully the Azure Lady with money and the power of friendship but I wanna see that so bad actually.
Dean Sharpe
It's in the wet and the mark isn't weak enough to be bullied . . . Directly.
Jeanean
Fun fact: Spidersilk is not actually very flammable. Its actually much closer to how a very thin sheet of plastic would react. Yes, it can burn a little, and the material shrivels and melts away under the heat, but its much, MUCH less than the instant fireball you might expect from media. In a sense, its probably LESS burnable than normal cloth. Here a video for reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yG77Gelr3pY
Young Youghurt
Trade what Ben? The frickin aquaman? Sorry just jokin HBomberguys line came to my mind lol
jarthur93
thanks for the chapter, yeah that far out at sea i’m not surprised in the slightest their flat broke.
Oskatat
She'll be so upset
Oskatat
I'm with Tjark on this. She's just detached. She doesn't need to eat, or sleep, or stretch, or do the dozens of little things you do because you're human. She's turning into her element. In a way, as Viv very poetically said, she is the ocean. This body she is using to communicate with humans is just a puppet, not her true body. Or so it will feel if it's anything like Elunath.
Sebin Paul
😂😂😂 that’s just fucking wonderful
Clarke
“As Vif had felt, many were mages, some used to fighting.”
Clarke
It’s reef a sail, not riff a sail… the power of the wind forced the sailors to riff the sails or risk capsizing
James Faulkner
Cash moneyyyyyyy 😂
M. Gunnarsson
"Lak-Tak, may I introduce you to the wonders of electrocution? There are so many torture options that would open up if we could juuuuuust re-invent invent the stun-gun..."
Joshua Aarons
I knoww. I'm so thirsty for more after binging through the series.
Adrian Gorgey
she's broke ahahaha
Roombot
Azure Lady is a bit senile methinks. I hope things go okay for Rakan
Kennyevilmonkey
Wouldn't be surprised if Helock is trying to suppress incoming trade to them as a way of weakening a potential threat, or to try and keep her somewhat under their thumb.
Mantarok1205
Jolly good!
Isley
good chappie
Kennyevilmonkey
If they are broke, maybe they would be interested in setting up some trade agreements?
Tjark
"After a meal where people chewed with their mouths closed," - I love how relatable Viv is sometimes xD "the two ships sailed off west towards its destination: the floating city of the elemental mage." shouldn't this be east instead of west? They were at Zazas and wanted to go north of Halluria, that is very clearly not west.
John Anastacio
Agree. Discrepancy.
WarStrider72
Viv finds the lost city of Atlantis! Or More like Atlanta since the city is flat broke. Then again with Viv’s luck there might be something sinister in the floating city….
Tjark
I think it's just a case of losing touch with her humanity. We saw the same thing with Elunath if in a much less advanced stage, and we've seen mentions of Viv actively working on retaining her own. If this Lady is really that old it's no wonder she's so much worse than Elunath in this regard.
Grumpy Cucumber
Haha. They'll get that gold back in reconstructing her shambling hermitage 😂 Also, the 2nd boat seemed to have two different names?
Alexander Dupree
Oh no the locals have let Viv get the advantage on them again. When will they learn?
Drakenclaw
Thanks for the chapter. "Well, except for Lak-Tak. But he was only interested in weapons." Hey, psst, Lak-Tak. Want to put a giant gun on a train?
thomas j walters
lol you fool! you blubbering bubble lubber! you absolutely washed out scoundrel of an elemental! dost thou not know upon which thine might sup the currency of the realm! ok yes all of that was nonsense but her being poor got a real laugh from me.
Andrew
Thank you!
Unwillingmainer
Very good diplomacy Viv. You didn't cause an incident, yet, and have gotten confirmation that you can get what you want. Now you just need to actually get it and survive whatever bullshit water lady drops on you. I'm personally thinking she's going to angle for some more cash somehow.
Steven C
Arthur seems to be missing a business opportunity here.
Sierra Saldierna
Hehe hope she sets up trade relations with the Azure Lady.
SDCard
Thanks for the chapter! Good to see them helping Rakan, and always great seeing more of Lana :D
the btrflyz
I hope that they can come to some long term agreement with the Azure Lady, seems like their little settlement is short on resources and trade. I wonder if there is political shenanigans going on, what with the expectation that anyone who wishes to speak to her must go through Helock. I think the second Harrakan ship got renamed during the writing process and one of the instances didn't get updated: Second Chance vs Redemption "Second Chance sailed back to Helock laden with goods, but Neriad’s Mercy traveled due west..." "Welcome aboard the newly renovated Neriad’s Mercy, and Efestar’s Redemption."
T'Ericka
I don’t trust it. Something ain’t right with this lady and I hope she doesn’t turn out to be completely crazy
Rafnyd
Ooh, when Viv tells Arthur about this she's going to be so excited. Proof that money is the most powerful force multiplier!
Vladerag
Mec, buddy, you are killing me here. I NEED MORE! D:<
WarStrider72
Thanks for the chapter
WarStrider72
Bob!
