Master Amand stares with a flat look on his face. I lean back in the chair and fiddle with my straw-hat as I wonder what he's thinking about. I had hoped to surprise him or rile him up with the presumptuous request, making the ensuing conversation that much easier because he would be on his back-foot.
“For what purpose?” He asks instead.
“To guard a building in Meria.” I reply. He nods at me to tell me to go on. “I have some concerns about Elizabeth Vil, we don't always get along for many reasons and she can be quite jealous about my relationship with Leomi Lance.” I explain. Sometimes, but we're sisters, how could you say this of me! “She is adept at concealing her appearance and infiltration but Templars would be difficult for her to deceive. Elizabeth once successfully tricked Lady Lance into believing she was my blood sister, that misunderstanding was rather difficult to clear up.”
“I have heard a corroborating rumor.” Amand acknowledges, looking surprised. He didn't expect me to say this. I suppress Liz' prideful smirk. “She should not be able to deceive anyone in that manner again, although I suspected the two of you did have a very close relationship rather than her having used a construct.” He adds with squinted eyes. Suspect me all you want, this trick only has to last until Liz makes her true return.
“Once upon a time, we were.” I utter while rubbing the scar on my left cheek. “Let's say she was rather... disappointed in me after falling into a trap because I told her to trust a certain Exemplar. I thought I made it up to her with the institute but it turns out she has a temper.” I was peeved at the most.
“Miss Freepath, while I do sympathize to a point, the Order does not have the resources to send Templars as bodyguards. Elizabeth Vil has been exiled from the Kingdom so I would suggest you seek help from the regular army or Countess Lance.” Master Amand tells me. “At most, I could promise to set regular patrols in your street but I would need a good reason to do so.”
“I will soon be acquiring more enemies than the Red Berserk if it helps justify your decision to assign these eight Templars.” I reply with a smile, as if I hadn't heard his refusal. “There may very well be some chaos in Meria if Nobility torches or steals my project.”
“You do realize that I am a Master of the Order, do you not?” Amand asks with a tense expression.
“I was not threatening you nor implying I would be provoking my soon to become enemies into attacking me.” I deny with an offended voice. “It is simply that Nobles are prideful and my opinions could easily offend them. A mere eight Templars could easily keep the peace.”
“Miss Jessica.” He starts, losing some of his politeness. “Would you simply tell me what it is you will be doing in that building which could cause a revolt if burnt instead of dancing around the subject?”
I sigh and nod, having hoped to get him to commit to giving me eight Templars first because he might not find my project of enough value or entirely dismiss it because he doesn't understand. Oh well.
I gather one portion of flow, the most I can spare while preserving the three constructs on my heart, and assemble the plowing construct I've been working on. I then explain what I hope to make out of it, finding it encouraging that his hard expression softens.
“Can you give me a demonstration?” He asks at the end.
“Of course, although I'm low on energy.” I reply.
“That is no issue, U...” He starts.
“Master!” Alex' loud cry arises from behind the door and cuts him off.
“What is it?” Amand asks towards the door as it opens.
“We've found the entrance, the paved floor in the Rykz forge can be lifted but the construct detected a large round rock immediately under it that makes it impossible to enter the tunnel.” The Templar explains, standing at the door-frame. “That stone is the reason we didn't detect the empty space under the building. We suspect the Rykz can move it to use this pathway to return.”
“Cut a hole in the rock but be careful. If you don't cause a collapse then map the tunnels before you seal them.” Amand orders.
Alex salutes and gives me an acknowledging nod before departing at double-pace. Surprising considering he didn't find the tunnel where I thought it would be, but then again I did affirm it would be inside the city so I was right.
It saddens me a bit that the Silver Hive will be unable to easily return to the Izla but the fact is that I would be the only one who would be happy if they did and their return would put many more lives at risk which would immediately sour my mood towards Grikyz if I am still breathing.
“Miss Freepath?” Amand calls out, bringing my attention to the five portions of flow he made float over the table.
“Ah, yes.” I say.
I seize the energy and extend my palm out, inside which he places his dagger. I set the plowing construct over the blade and activate it as I run the point on the table. The wood splinters along the path, creating a rather large groove.
“I used about half a portion but that's because the table is harder than most soil and the construct itself is a bit unstable because I haven't finished it so the consumption can wildly vary.” I explain and give the dagger back with the construct deactivated.
The Master takes hold of the weapon and spends the next half-hour inspecting the segments while asking me questions. I reply as best as I can with a growing nervousness because he has shown more interest in the construct than in the specifics of its use for plowing.
“How will this construct affect food production?” He asks.
“It's impossible to tell.” I shake my head. “People might use the time they save to diversify what they produce or plow more fields.” I tell him.
“Or laze around.” He notes.
“Unlikely, but I suppose it's possible.” I reply flatly.
“Very well. Lastly, and most importantly, can you be trusted to make those plows impossible to adapt as weapons?” He questions with a sharp look on his face that gives me a thrill.
“That would be impossible.” I tell him straight. “People will inevitably learn enough about how the construct works to fight with it, I don't think it will be as dangerous as the shredding construct but it might come close.” I'm not surprised it came to this but it still angers me.
“But you said you will make use of runes.” Amand comments. “Unless it is taught in detail, then the construct won't spread from that alone.”
“The runic plows will be too weak in effect and unwieldy to be used as weapons, that's for certain because the runes will be engraved on metal strips attached to the body.” I affirm. “But people will eventually learn by observation, not to mention that the runic-smiths will know everything about the plowing construct.”
“Those qualified to make this runic plow will know not to spread this kind of information.” The Master tells me. “But I do believe you are correct, the wide-spread use will lead to the shredding construct leaking in one shape or another.”
“Does that mean you refuse to help?” I ask.
“Don't you fear I would arrest you since you are implying you will be going ahead with the project with or without my agreement?” He questions back.
“I'm not planning to teach this construct to peasants so you would at most forbid me to go on with my project.” I counter. “Besides, I am not certain whether it is forbidden by the Kingdom or the Empire to teach those 'dangerous' constructs.”
“It is the Empire Law which forbids it for reasons of secrecy and internal stability. Most constructs originate from the University after all. Noble houses compete in stealing each other's secrets so a King or Queen would be unable and unwilling to intervene.” Amand explains. “Not that peasants are allowed to learn, which makes it forbidden for them.”
“I won't stop.” I frankly tell him because deceiving the Order on this matter wouldn't last and would have dire consequences for me, no matter how much it disgusts me to follow these rules. “If needed, I will simply find people who are allowed to know the construct to sell to.”
“The potential of this runic plow is indeed too great for it to be forbidden or openly revealed.” He admits, surprising me. “That being said, this potential is also the reason why I must contact Kruzser as I cannot make the decision on my own.”
“That's...” I trail off, stunned by how quickly the matter seems to have blown up.
“In the meantime, I will assign two dozen Templars and Semplars to guard the location of your project.” Amand continues while thoughtfully tapping the table. “Whether you are allowed to spread this runic plow as you wish or are restricted, it is important to develop it so the Order will also provide flow in a quantity to be determined by the Main Temple in Kruzser.”
“This is much more than I hoped for.” I admit, feeling proud as well as pressured by the expectations. Leomi taught you well. I merely imitated her methods in finding support. “I am not qualified to manage the guild.” I humbly admit. “Could you deal directly with my representative and Councilwoman Cecil for further negotiations?” I ask.
Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
“Of course.” Amand agrees with a nod. “Do you require an escort back to Meria?”
“No, I rather value my freedom.” I reply firmly.
“I suppose it would be more difficult for Elizabeth Vil to track you down if you travel alone.” The Master says with a frown as he glances at the scar on my left cheek. “How motivated is she to find you?”
“It's difficult to determine before meeting her.” I tell him truthfully. “But I will be accompanying Lady Lance for the foreseeable future and our relationship will become more public so it's safe to assume her jealousy will grow.” Only if you keep me from her.
“And your future enemies?” He questions with a serious expression.
“They can only catch me when I work at the guild.” I affirm.
He quickly nods in agreement, likely relying on his misunderstanding that I've hidden my existence for the entire war to deduct that I am able to move stealthily enough to evade pursuit from Nobility.
“In the event of your death, can those you employ continue that work?” He asks.
“Maybe, I haven't met them.” I reply with a half-shrug. “If I die, I'm sure you can rely on the University to finalize the construct.”
“Perhaps.” He whispers, sounding unconvinced as he peers down at the dagger in his hand.
“Why do so much?” I ask Amand out of curiosity.
“For the same reason I acted against Duke Meria.” He replies with a flat tone. “The Empire is its people. A person's status is merely an indication of the authority our Emperor lends to fulfill a role in our society, which Nobles often forget to their own detriment.” He explains while gazing at me with cold eyes.
“Peasants are those who suffer from their lapses of memory.” I utter in a dark voice.
“One's privilege only extends as far as one's usefulness to our survival. You would do well to remember as much if you take it upon you to attempt to right the world to your own views.” Amand tells me threateningly. “Emperor Rasaec is wise and so the Empire will last for as long as His immortality. Yet, days only contain so many hours. Nobility is a bulwark, they buy time in case of invasion and maintain our capacity to wage an endless war on our borders. Lady Lance understands this, it would do you good to keep this in mind lest you attempt to change hers on what is to be achieved with the Hospitaliers.”
“I have no intention of interfering with the Hospitaliers' given mission.” I tell him, unfazed by his zealotry because I've taken these beliefs into account for my plans.
“Then, I believe that this is about all the business we have to discuss, Miss Freepath.” Amand declares while standing up.
“One more thing.” I speak up as I follow him outside. “The Hospitaliers dearly lack qualified officers.” The Master pauses and turns to me with a raised eyebrow. “Could Templar Nahl be interested in a change of career?” I ask with a corner smile.
“Why him?” Amand questions.
“Because he tried to drag me to the Alemplar twice and is low born. He also has the training to be a squad leader in the Order which makes him more qualified to rise in the Hospitaliers' ranks than those of Lady Lance's faction.” I explain.
“And why would I agree to let him go?” He asks.
“Because he is one of you.” I reply easily. “He would be someone more trustworthy to deal with than a recently recruited low born, soldier, or Noble.”
“If you can convince him, then I will accept his withdrawal from the Order.” The Master decisively tells me.
“Thank you, Master Amand.” I say, bowing my head.
“If you would please follow me, I would pass on some parting gifts to facilitate your perilous lifestyle.” He says, seemingly implying that it was reckless of me to show up here without a guarantee the Order would let me go. “You could call it a reward for returning our equipment.”
I blink, surprised and a bit suspicious. The two Templars who stood guard come with as he leads us to a carriage. They lift the tarp and start pulling out a set of light armor I've seen Semplars and scouts wear. There is no silver lion head crest to be seen.
They give me a steel cuirass that covers the torso and shoulders, which is thankfully meant for women, with attached studded hard leather bands to protect the biceps, elbows, and thighs down to the knees. Next, I receive ankle protectors, sturdy boots, and a single wrist guard, all of which are made of the same stubbed hard leather but reinforced with horizontal steel strips.
Lastly, Amand personally hands me a Sathens style helmet which is made of one piece with long nose and cheek guards. It can be pulled back to uncover the face without removing it.
“Shiny.” I note appreciatively while discreetly inspecting the armor for hidden constructs with my flow.
I put the armor away in the waterproofed tarp bag the two Templars hold open for me. I take the chance to complain about my village's temple guard as I do. Amand assures me he'll look into it but it doesn't seem like he'll believe my word alone.
“I hope you will live long and benefit the Empire, Miss Freepath.” Amand tells me somewhat curtly as he departs.
I shrug, not caring enough to do any more than this to help the village. Especially since most don't appear to have an issue with the old Templar. I head back towards the building with the bag over my shoulder, wondering if I'll manage to trick Nahl into joining the Hospitaliers and ditch Vikiana as well.
“Miss Jessica!” Nahl calls out as he walks out of an alley.
I flinch at the politeness. It rubs me the wrong way because it annoys me that people think more of me now that they think I can murder in swathes using my mind alone than they did when I was growing food to keep the Empire going.
“Nahl.” I reply, turning to him. “I was looking for...” He cuts me off by grabbing my cloak and starts dragging me behind him. “Well, I suppose that's better than weighty politeness.” I grumble.
“My apologies but the Alemplar has little time available because she will soon leave with a scouting party.” Nahl tells me.
I stomp down and fight against his pull, stopping us in the middle of the street. The Templar turns to me with an awkward but determined expression. I glare at him but his brown eyes don't waver.
“Miss Jessica, you're clearly sick.” He says.
“How about this? I'll accept your goodwill if you travel to Castle Lance and consider joining the Hospitaliers after learning about them for a while.” I propose.
“This is for your own good.” He protests with a frown.
“Not really. Your Alemplar can't help me so following you is a waste of time.” I counter. “I've asked people just as qualified as the Alemplar, if not more.”
“Another opinion can't hurt.” He insists. “And I'm very happy as a Templar.” He adds belatedly.
“The Order needs people they can trust in the Hospitaliers to coordinate their efforts and ensure the organization develops in a beneficial direction. It's your duty.” I tell him with a wicked grin. Nahl shifts on his legs as he apparently thinks hard about the offer.
“You keep your word?” He asks suspiciously.
“Of course.” I say with a wink.
“Then, alright. I'll ask for a temporary assignment.” Nahl agrees. “Now, come.”
He starts pulling me again. I lean down and pressure his forearm with my shoulder while twisting my torso to break his grip. I then lion's step away into a small alley. It's risky to let an Alemplar check the damage to my body after all.
“I accept your goodwill but, unfortunately for you, I didn't promise to seek out the Alemplar or go with you now!” I call out over my shoulder, chuckling inside.
“Jessica!” He cries out in protest but doesn't give chase.
“You better uphold your promise as well, Nahl!” I add while slipping out into a side-street.
I slow down my pace as soon as I'm away and head out towards the building where we ate in a loop to avoid running into the nosy but well-intentioned Templar again. I find Vikiana waiting next to her mount.
“Viki!” I exclaim.
“That has to stop.” She replies with a groan.
“Sorry, Vicky, with a more pronounced 'kh'” I correct with a laugh at her glare. “You waiting for Master Amand?” I ask.
“I'll seek him out since he hasn't come back and you clearly didn't bother to tell him I wanted to talk.” She replies with a sigh.
“Sure, I do have a question first, though.” I tell her.
She nods to invite me to ask. I instead approach the horse to attach the bag of armor to my luggage, which has grown larger than what my shoulder and a half could support. The delay serves to annoy her but also to buy time to prepare myself in body and mind, which involves struggling to fasten my three belts around my waist.
“Why did you try to kill me in Meiridin anyway?” I ask her. “There wouldn't have been much of a point in my death since it would only have further angered the Princess.”
“That by itself could have saved lives.” Vikiana explains, her hard face growing even harder. “My hope was to injure you to the brink of death to force the Rykz to use her flow to save you but I won't deny I was enraged and desperate as well so I wasn't thinking rationally.”
“Good enough of a reason for me.” I tell her with a smile.
“Obviously.” She replies with a scathing tone.
I shrug, deciding it's best not to argue how I justify killing with her. She has a knack for making me lose my temper and say more than I should so there is no need to risk that if her opinion is already low enough.
Vikiana watches closely as I pull out the broken sword that Leomi tried to give me when we split up as a token to ensure that we will find each other again. I apply an armor-piercing construct to a dagger and sever the pommel's silver lion head, ruining the beacon construct for good.
“For your daughter, since I assume you'll be headed for Castle Lance soon.” I explain.
“You will be as well.” She notes but stores the pommel inside her coin pouch.
She then turns and departs to search for Master Amand. I hope the two won't be discussing me but there isn't anything I can do to stop them, insisting that they don't would only convince them that they should.
Once Vikiana turns the corner of a building, I start untying her luggage from the horse's saddle and stacking it in a pile under various Semplar and Templar gazes. I affect such confidence that none of them actually react when I mount the horse without removing my own equipment.
By the time a few draw near, likely to ask what I'm doing, I've already set my feet in the stirrups and tapped the horse's flanks. They call out to question me as the mount speeds up to double-trot.
“Please take care of Vicky's stuff for a while!” I reply, letting them trick themselves by filling in the blanks.
As I make my way out of the Rykz city with a grin on my face, I hear rapid footsteps rushing in my direction. I throw a look over my shoulder, finding Vikiana sprinting towards me at break-neck speed.
“Jessica! Horse theft is punished by years of imprisonment at best!” She roars. I panic a little and tap the horse again, making it accelerate.
“How wretched! This is slander on my good name!” I yell back. “I'm just borrowing it!”
I don't hear her respond because the hooves make a lot of noise when they hit the pavement and the horse is quite fast so she's quickly losing ground. There are no Templars are on the chase so she definitely told them not to, meaning I truly am borrowing the mount with her permission.