Chapter 39:

I Told My Wrath

> Training expeditions serve two purposes: to patrol the roads of the Empire and to hone the raw recruits into the weapons we need them to be. Each step on those treacherous paths tempers the Hand’s blade and sharpens the Tongue’s words. The Empire’s strength is not built in the safety of Institutes, but in the dust and danger of the open road, or the hidden wilds.

>

> — From the journal of Knight-Captain Rexia

Rinthess strode purposefully down the narrow lane of the Institute, her long coat billowing with each step. The path was lined with towering trees, their leaves overhead casting dappled shadows across the stone walkway. She moved with the fluid grace of someone who knew exactly where she was going, her eyes fixed straight ahead.

When she reached a quiet, shaded bench, she sat without a word. For a moment, she said nothing, letting stillness settle around her. Then, in a voice just above a whisper but filled with authority, she spoke to the figure seated beside her.

“You will soon be placed into a position to gain greater trust with him,” she said, her tone was calm, but brooked no argument or denial. “Do not waste it.”

Her eyes remained forward, giving nothing away. Then, with the same graceful precision, Rinthess rose from the bench and continued down the path, her figure disappearing into the shadows cast by the trees.

XXX

Godfrey gathered with Class One in the auditorium, the large room filled with murmurs of conversation as they waited for instructions. Knight-Captain Rexia's order that morning had been brief, but the air was thick with anticipation. Godfrey sat with Adrian on his right, Thyra and Riella to his left, each of them quietly observing the growing tension in the room.

Before long, the back doors swung open, and Rinthess strode boldly into the room, her presence immediately commanding attention. Without a word, she walked straight to the stage, her steps sharp and purposeful. In one smooth motion, she hopped onto the platform, her eyes scanning the gathered recruits with an intensity that silenced the room.

Just the sight of her sent dark thoughts swirling through Godfrey's mind. He liked to believe he was a good man, but he was too fueled by an undercurrent of murderous intent. How much of his drive these last two weeks of training were focused on his own improvement rather than his confrontation with Corvin? And what would he truly do if Rinthess reneged on her promise?

His thoughts were broken by her voice; sharp as nails, and leaving a bad taste in his mouth like so much swallowed brine.

"Tomorrow," she began, her voice ringing out clearly, "you will be assigned for expeditions."

The room held its collective breath.

"Report to your training halls at dawn, with at least a week’s supplies and gear. There, you will be assigned, and you will do everything your commanding officer tells you." Her gaze swept over the room, daring anyone to object. "Understood?"

A chorus of "Yes, ma'am's" echoed in response.

"Good." Rinthess nodded once, sharply. "Dismissed."

Without waiting for further questions, she turned on her heel and strode out the same way she had come, leaving the room buzzing with excitement and apprehension.

Godfrey and Adrian exchanged excited glances, their shared anticipation electric. This was it—their first real test. All the hours of grueling training, the endless drills, and the strategy discussions were about to be put to use. But more than the physical challenge, it was the real-world application of everything they had learned that made their hearts race.

They discussed the possibilities with Thyra and Riella as they walked around the grounds. The four of them speculated about where they might be sent and what challenges awaited them on the expeditions.

"Maybe we'll be assigned to the eastern border," Thyra suggested, her eyes bright with excitement. "I've heard rumors of bandit activity increasing there."

Adrian grinned. "Bandits? Sounds like a warm-up. I'd prefer something more thrilling—perhaps a mission into the Whispering Mine. Have you heard the stories?"

Godfrey shuddered. “No whispers, thank you.”

Thyra smiled. "I think I'll pass on haunted mines as well."

Adrian checked the sun's position. "Well, it's about time for a meal. Anyone care to join me?"

"I'm starved, I'll come along if you're paying; you can't keep ordering everything on the menu and expecting me to have enough physical coin on my person to pay."

Riella also agreed to go, and they looked at Godfrey expectantly.

He shook his head. "Thank you for the offer, but I have some things I need to handle first. I'll see you all tomorrow?"

Riella looked like she wanted to ask what he was going to do, but obviously decided against it as they parted ways.

As Godfrey wandered toward the Garrison Gate, he wondered what kind of adventure the Institute had planned for them.

XXX

Godfrey stood in the cozy atmosphere of Antonia's parlor, the familiar scent of spiced ale and burning lavender candles creating a suffuscant glow in the paper lanterns crossing the air on their tethers. Scarlet leaned against the bar nearby, her arms crossed and her expression unreadable, seemingly indifferent to the conversation unfolding.

"So, I'll be gone indefinitely," Godfrey said, adjusting the strap of his satchel. "If you could give me some food that could keep for a few weeks' worth of travel, I would find a way to repay you."

Antonia shook her head with a frown. "I already don't pay you, Godfrey. I can spare some food. I have good friends at the grocer three streets over."

"Thank you, Antonia," he replied sincerely.

She shrugged as if it were nothing, but he knew that several weeks of provisions for a grown man was no small sum. Wanting to ease the burden, he reached up and removed his helmet, setting it down on the table between them.

"Here," he said. "This is some insurance. If I don't return, you can sell this and get another guard or two."

Antonia raised an eyebrow, a hint of sternness in her gaze. "You're a fool if you think I'll take a piece of armor from you when you're going into the field."

Godfrey shrugged lightly. "Honestly, I hate the thing. It restricts my eyesight too much. I need one with a more open visor."

Antonia laughed softly. "You'll rethink that when you have an arrow through each of those pretty eyes, dear."

Just then, the carpenter from up the way—whom Godfrey had asked to fix Zayd's sign—walked in hurriedly. His face was flushed, and his eyes darted around the room until they settled on Godfrey.

"Squire!" the carpenter exclaimed, slightly out of breath. "I’m calling in that favor."

Godfrey straightened, concern flashing across his face. "What is it?"

The carpenter glanced between him and Antonia before continuing. "It’s my daughter, she’s sick."

Godfrey exchanged a brief, worried look with Antonia, and he was leaving with the carpenter when Antonia shouted, and the helmet almost hit him in the chest as he caught it.

As they moved toward the door, Scarlet finally shifted from her spot against the bar. "Be careful," she murmured, her eyes meeting Godfrey's for just a moment before he stepped out into the street.

XXX

Godfrey strode briskly beside the carpenter through the winding streets of the Duldrums, which as Godfrey had learned was the name of where was living. The Duldrums was known for its labyrinthine alleys and bustling markets. The morning air was crisp, but a sense of urgency quickened their pace. Vendors were just beginning to set up their stalls, the scent of spices and fresh produce mingling in the air.

"I have to tell you," Godfrey began, his breath forming small clouds, "I know next to nothing about healing."

The carpenter glanced at him, eyes filled with desperation. "I don't expect you to heal her," he replied hurriedly. "I just need you to take her to a Respital. They won't turn away someone like you. You can get her in there, I'm sure of it."

Godfrey nodded thoughtfully. "Of course I'll help if I can," he said. "But let's make a stop first."

They turned down a narrow alley, the familiar sights of the Lower City unfolding around them. As they approached Zayd's dilapidated shop, Godfrey noticed something new. A freshly painted sign hung above the door, almost sparkling in the cold morning light.

He couldn't help but smile. It was a vast improvement over the old, weathered board that used to creak ominously in the wind. It was no surprise to see a few customers milling around inside the tiny space, their hushed conversations hinting at hopeful transactions.

Entering the shop, the warm scent of herbs and potions enveloped them. Zayd looked up from his conversation with a patron, his keen eyes immediately noticing the urgency in their expressions.

"Zayd," Godfrey called softly. "Can you come with me? This man's daughter is sick."

Zayd's face grew serious, the usual sardonic mood replaced with professional concern. "Let me get my bag," he said without hesitation.

He disappeared into a back room for a moment, returning with a well-worn satchel slung over his shoulder. "Tell me everything on the way," he instructed, nodding to the carpenter.

As they stepped back into the street, the carpenter began to speak, his words tumbling out in a rush. "She woke up feverish, delirious. She's barely coherent—talking nonsense, sweating through the sheets. I've never seen her this ill."

Zayd listened intently as they navigated the winding streets. "Any rash? Has she been vomiting?"

"No rash, no vomiting," the carpenter replied. "Just the fever and the delirium."

Godfrey walked silently beside them, his hand instinctively resting on the hilt of his sword. He felt out of his depth but was determined to help in any way he could.

Stolen story; please report.

They soon arrived at a modest dwelling tucked behind the warehouse, its exterior humble but well-kept. Inside, the air was thick with worry. The carpenter's daughter lay on a narrow bed, her skin flushed and damp with sweat. She muttered incoherently, tossing her head from side to side.

Zayd moved to her side immediately, placing a cool hand on her forehead. "She's burning up," he murmured. He began to pull various vials and pouches from his bag, his movements efficient and assured.

The carpenter hovered nearby, his hands wringing together. "Will she be alright?"

"When did the symptoms first appear?" Zayd continued, his tone calm but urgent.

"Just this morning," the carpenter replied. "She woke up feverish and started speaking nonsense. At first, I thought maybe she'd just had a bad dream, but she got worse as the hours passed."

Zayd knelt beside her, his eyes keen and assessing. "Has she eaten or drunk anything unusual recently?" he asked.

The carpenter hesitated. "She mentioned some berries she got from a market stall yesterday. Said they were sweet and the seller was giving them out freely."

Zayd's gaze sharpened. "Do you have any of these berries left?"

"I think so." The carpenter hurried to a small table and retrieved a woven basket containing a handful of dark, glossy berries.

Zayd took the basket and sniffed the contents. His expression turned grim. "Zahr al-Nar," he said quietly.

Godfrey felt a chill run down his spine. He looked at the girl, her face contorted in pain. The room seemed to grow colder.

The carpenter's eyes widened. "What does that mean?"

"It's an addictive substance from Somara," Zayd explained, his tone mechanical but his eyes blazing. "In small doses, it induces mild euphoria. In larger amounts, it can cause severe delirium and even death."

The carpenter's face flushed with anger. "That peddler... he poisoned my daughter!"

Zayd placed a steadying hand on the man's shoulder. "Your daughter will be fine. As morbid as this may sound to you, if the drug was to kill her she would be dead by now. She needs plenty of water to flush it out of her system, and soups would be good if you can make or buy them. Keep her warm and rested, and she will be fine."

"Is there anything else I can do?" the carpenter asked, his voice trembling.

"It's imperative she doesn't consume these berries again, or even see them," Zayd emphasized. "The grip of Zahr al-Nar is fierce. Keep her away from the markets for a while."

Godfrey stepped forward. "We need to find out who is distributing this. How widespread do you think this is?"

Zayd's jaw tightened. "If they're giving it out freely, they're trying to hook as many people as possible. This isn't an isolated incident."

The carpenter clenched his fists. "We have to stop them."

"We will," Godfrey said firmly. He glanced at Zayd. "I leave for an expedition today, but perhaps we can make a plan before I go."

Zayd's usual sarcasm flickered back into his eyes. "Off on some grand adventure, aren't you? Fine. I’ll put some real work in while you’re gallivanting."

Godfrey shot him a plain look. “I do not gallivant.”

Turning to the carpenter, Zayd asked, "What's your name?"

"Lucius Fabius," the man replied.

"Lucius, I'll look into the market stall that sold these berries," Zayd promised. "And I'll inform the pertinent officials. They may not act quickly, but it's a start."

"Thank you," Lucius said, his eyes filled with gratitude. "Both of you."

Godfrey nodded. "Take care of your daughter. We'll do what we can."

As they stepped back into the bustling streets, Zayd glanced sideways at Godfrey. "Looks like I have some work to do."

Godfrey chuckled softly. "Duty calls. I’m surprised you’re willing to pursue this, given your thoughts on the Lower City."

Zayd scoffed. “Just because I want to work in a more affluent locale does not make me heartless, or devoid of compassion. I am able to help, so I am therefore responsible for the outcome.”

Godfrey met Zayd's gaze. "I never thought you were heartless," he said earnestly. "Your willingness to help others, even when it's difficult, is something I admire."

Zayd shrugged, a hint of a smirk playing at the corner of his mouth. "Don't go making me out to be a saint. I'm just trying to keep things interesting while I wallow here."

Interesting or not, the Duldrums are lucky to have you," Godfrey replied. He adjusted his satchel, preparing to depart. "I have to go now, but I promise I'll return and assist you with this."

Zayd nodded, his eyes reflecting a rare moment of sincerity. "Just make sure you come back in one piece. There's plenty of work waiting for you."

"I'll do my best," Godfrey said with a small smile. "Take care, Zayd."

"Safe travels," Zayd replied, turning to head deeper into the maze of streets.

With a final glance over his shoulder, Godfrey set off toward the Institute, his mind already shifting to the challenges that lay ahead. The city buzzed around him, unaware of the quiet vows made in its shadowed alleys.

XXX

Godfrey stood with Adrian, Thyra, and Riella in the large stone courtyard at the heart of the Institute. The black and red banners of the Order draped from the towering walls, fluttering gently in the morning breeze. Around them assembled the entirety of this session's Squires and Scribes—Classes One through Four. Trainers, attendants, and Institute staff stood at attention, their gazes fixed forward as a disciplined silence settled over the crowd.

Facing them was a massive stone podium, where three Speakers stood clad in ceremonial robes. They began chanting in a dissonant, guttural language that echoed through the courtyard. The unfamiliar words twisted in the air, creating a haunting melody that seemed to warp the very atmosphere. Godfrey felt a subtle ripple across his skin, as if the air itself was shifting around him. He had no idea what effect the Speakers intended, but the sensation was both unsettling and mesmerizing.

He glanced sideways at his friends. Adrian stood with a broad grin, his eyes alight with excitement. "Well, this is certainly a way to start the day," he whispered, his tone laced with wit. "I hope they're not cursing us."

Thyra stood tall and composed, though a flicker of annoyance crossed her serene features. "Adrian, must you always make light of everything?" she muttered, her fingers tapping lightly against her thigh.

Adrian smirked. "Lighten up, Thyra. Although, in this moment, the adage of ‘words can never hurt me’ seems...less certain."

Riella's gaze was intense as she watched the Speakers, her posture tense. "Something feels off about this," she said quietly, her voice filled with determination. "It's more than just a blessing."

Godfrey nodded. "I feel it too."

Before they could discuss further, the chanting intensified. The Speakers raised their arms, and a pulse of energy surged outward. The air shimmered, and for a moment, the courtyard seemed to exist outside of time. Then, as quickly as it began, the chanting ceased. The lingering vibrations faded, leaving an eerie stillness in their wake.

A tall figure stepped onto the podium—Knight-Captain Rexia. Clad in polished armor adorned with the insignia of the Hand, he commanded attention with his mere presence. His piercing gaze swept over the assembled recruits.

"Squires and Scribes," he began, his voice resonating through the courtyard, "today marks the commencement of your first expeditions beyond the walls of the Institute. You have trained diligently, honed your paltry skills, and now you stand ready to serve, if in a limited role."

He paused, allowing his words to settle. "The chant you just witnessed is an ancient rite, a protective veil cast over you as you venture into the unknown. Honor it, and let it strengthen your resolve."

Godfrey exchanged a glance with Thyra, who gave a slight nod.

Knight-Captain Rexia continued. "You will be divided into units, each assigned missions important to the safety and prosperity of our realm. Your assignments have been determined based on your abilities and potential, but rest assured these assignments are not usually dangerous. The details will be provided to you shortly."

He stepped back, and another officer approached to begin calling out names and assignments. As the lists were read, groups of recruits broke off, heading toward their designated areas.

Adrian clapped Godfrey on the shoulder. "Looks like adventure calls, my friend," he said with a broad grin. "I do hope they send us somewhere interesting."

Godfrey smiled. "Knowing you, even the mundane would become an epic tale."

Adrian laughed. "Ah, but life is too short for dull moments."

Thyra rolled her eyes, though a hint of a smile tugged at her lips. "Just try not to get us into trouble with your antics."

Adrian placed a hand over his heart in mock offense. "Me? Cause trouble? I am the very model of propriety. Also, Godfrey is the reckless one!"

As Godfrey began to deny this vehemently, he had to admit the impression was sound given his recent decisions.

Riella, her gaze still fixed on the dispersing crowd, spoke up. "We should find out our assignment. Standing here bantering won't get us anywhere."

Adrian winked at her. "Always so diligent, Riella. But you're right. Onward we go."

An attendant approached them, a scroll in hand. "Squires Godfrey, Adrian, Thyra, and Riella?"

"That's us," Godfrey replied.

"Report to Briefing Room Three for your assignment," the attendant instructed before moving on.

They made their way through the winding corridors of the Institute, the stone walls echoing with the footsteps and hushed conversations of other recruits. As they walked, Adrian regaled them with exaggerated stories of past exploits.

"...and that's how I single-handedly saved the entire kitchen staff from a marauding rat," he declared with a flourish.

Thyra shook her head, though her eyes held a glint of amusement. "You're impossible."

"Impossible to ignore, perhaps; as some might say, undeniable," Adrian quipped.

Three pairs of eyes rolled as the group made their way to the indicated room.

XXX

Godfrey stood with Adrian, Thyra, and Riella in a sterile briefing room within the Institute. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries depicting the Empire's victories, but the room itself felt cold and impersonal.

The door at the far end of the room swung open, and Speaker Rinthess entered. She was resplendent in dark robes adorned with decorative armor pieces that gleamed under the bright lights. Her arming sword hung at her side, and her traveling gear was as immaculate as the rest of the room. Her presence commanded immediate attention, and caused Godfrey’s blood to boil. One day, she would not feel so secure being in a room with him.

"Good, you're all here," Rinthess said, her voice smooth yet authoritative. She regarded each of them with a piercing gaze. "You will be joining me on a special assignment."

Adrian exchanged a surprised glance with Godfrey, though Godfrey’s eyes held steel at the notion. "An assignment with you, Speaker Rinthess?" he asked, a hint of excitement in his tone.

"Indeed," she replied, her eyes narrowing slightly. "There is a point of interest to the Empire that has been on my list of obligations for some months now. Your skills and... potential make you suitable candidates for this mission. We will be able to kill two birds with one stone, as it were."

Thyra's serene demeanor faltered for a moment. "May I ask what the assignment entails?" she inquired cautiously.

Rinthess paced slowly before them. "Patience, Scribe Thyra. All will be revealed in due time. For now, know that this mission is of utmost importance and confidentiality. You are to speak of it to no one."

Rinthess paused, her expression unreadable. "Bring only what you can carry. We will be traveling light and fast. Your ability to adapt will be tested."

Adrian couldn't suppress a slight grin. "Sounds like quite the adventure."

Rinthess's gaze hardened. "This is no mere adventure, Squire Adrian. The stakes are high, and failure is not an option."

He straightened, his expression becoming serious. "Understood, Speaker."

She nodded curtly. "Good. Meet me at the eastern gate in fifteen minutes. Do not be late."

With that, Rinthess exited the room, her cloak billowing behind her.

The four friends exchanged hurried glances.

"Well, she certainly knows how to set a tone," Adrian quipped, though there was a serious edge to his words.

"Fifteen minutes?" Thyra exclaimed, a hint of irritation in her voice. "That's hardly any time to prepare."

Riella was already moving toward the door. "We need to move. I'll meet you all at the gate."

Adrian clapped Godfrey on the shoulder. "Guess we'd better make haste, my friend. Can't keep the Speaker waiting."

Riella nodded, her gaze focused as she paused in the doorway. "This isn’t just another routine expedition. We should be ready for anything."

Thyra crossed her arms, still clearly irritated. "I don’t like being kept in the dark."

Godfrey shouldered his pack, but couldn’t contain a last parting shot, filled with venom. "I’m sure we’ll be kept in the dark until the floor is opened beneath our feet, knowing Rinthess."

After a confused glance between the other three, they ventured down the dimly lit corridors where flickering torches cast wavering shadows upon the stone walls. The air was thick with the scent of oiled leather and iron, mingling with a hint of anticipation. Side by side, they stepped into the embrace of the unknown, the tapestry of their fates unfolding with each echoing footfall.