What a crafty scoundrel! I delivered an entire speech, made such an effort, and with one, admittedly bold, gesture, he promptly positions himself as a leader. Such a knockoff Napoleon! Come to think of it, the latter was also Corsican, if I recall my world's history correctly. Although he doesn't resemble Napoleon, he's more akin to a young Alain Delon. Attractive facial features, well-proportioned, eyes as blue as the sky. He's the picture-perfect image of an aristocrat, straight out of a poster! After such a stunt, I suspect the girls of this world have a new idol.
But why am I irked? On the contrary, his action plays into my favor. I never desired to become the leader of the capital's Knights, and here's my escape! It's a contentious one, admittedly, but it's something, at least.
Wow! Crixus' move has left an indelible impression on all the Knights. I regret that visors conceal their faces - I would love to see the expressions on the raigs' faces right now. Even I am having difficulty maintaining a nonchalant demeanor.
For almost half a minute, everyone remains frozen, and Crixus, having returned to the Break, seems as relaxed as if he'd done nothing more than a minor act. He could be a brilliant actor. All things considered, he is a far more intriguing character than I first thought. If he indeed hails from a ducal family, he would have received a superb education, designed specifically for such situations. He would have been taught rhetoric, public comportment, and how to seize a moment to his advantage.
The only question is, why did he do this at all? No, it's already clear he's not worried for his family. And it's not because they're aristocrats and can protect themselves, but because he doesn't care about them, and maybe he would even rejoice if they suffered from his act. Yes, that might even be one of his motives. Not the main one, of course. This is getting complicated. If he were older, it would be easier for me to discern the young raig's motivation, but at his age, somewhere between eighteen and nineteen, any reason could serve as a motive. It could even be to show me that he can do what I'm afraid to do. And judging by the glance he threw my way before his trick, seemingly saying: "look what I can do," this theory isn't so far-fetched. Perhaps, indeed, it's true, and having lost to me in the dance of swords, he needed to compensate for that loss somehow. Or maybe it was something much deeper? More likely, he didn't have one singular goal, but a blend of different factors of varying importance, as is most often the case in real life.
The Knights seem frozen in place until Halley shatters this illusion. He steps forward, extending his hand towards me. I accept the handshake with his chainmail-clad hand in silence. Words are unnecessary and would be superfluous now; everything is clearly understood without them. After Halley, Quintus approaches me, followed by Shiko. Then, two girls, bouncing with eagerness, virtually cling to me. It's fortunate that I'm in a projected state; otherwise, their armor could have genuinely caused me harm. After the "sisters," I shake hands with the rest who remained in the BKDW. Interestingly, the reaction to Crixus is different. Yes, the handshakes look identical, but they're somehow more restrained. He's welcomed, but it seems his peculiar behavior while he was searching for me can't be easily forgotten.
The other "solo" raigs are also not indifferent to our oath. However, there's a crucial factor here. I thought my words would inspire more people to join the BKDW. Initially, it seemed so, but then Crixus' act and our oath, sworn before the sea of people below, dissuaded many. So, while some may have been ready to join the organization, merely stepping forward and uttering the required words now would pale in comparison to the spectacle we orchestrated. Now those who might have joined remain stationary. It's a shame, but there's nothing to be done about it. One can only hope that in time, the hesitant ones will lean towards the "right" decision.
However, things are turning out much better than I initially anticipated when I rushed here. Not as good as they could be, but this is just what's popularly known as "an appetite that grows with eating." Yet, nothing has been definitively resolved. Granted, I seem to have quelled the initial wave of anger and the impulse to brandish swords, which may be enough for now, but something needs to be done about the overall situation!
"We! And now I have the right to say this." As I contemplated and weighed my options, Crixus started his speech. "Not just the BKDW, but all the Knights of the city have become too complacent. Trust me, I've travelled extensively, and in the five months following my initiation, I encountered Breakthroughs in six different cities. Only here, in Wilflaes, have I observed such laxity and disregard for personal safety. At the same time, I'm not disputing that Kraas, Thomas, and Maya have done a lot for all of us. Their decision to reveal themselves to the world was their choice, just as mine was to become an open raig as well. But what about everyone else? Why is everyone so careless? Doesn't anyone realize that we are, at best, mere tools for those in power? Yes, valuable tools - owing to their fear of Breakthroughs, but nothing more." He shifts as if experiencing uncertainty, but I notice that this gesture is purely theatrical. "I know what I'm talking about - I grew up amongst shapeshifters. For them, anyone who doesn't possess 'true blood' is nothing more than a servant, and they can't even conceive of it being any different. They consider only themselves to be genuine people, with everyone else just trash beneath their feet. And one can handle tools however one wishes - as long as they work: blackmail, subtle and covert recruitment, promises, bribery, in cash or other forms. No, this doesn't mean we should isolate ourselves from the world. But we must draw a line: there is us, and there is everyone else!"
In many ways, his words ring true. It's clear he's expressing longstanding grievances. However, due to his youth and inexperience with such matters, he's chosen the wrong moment. Why does he say this now? While it may be true, it's entirely inappropriate for the situation. The Knights have gathered here, atop this building, for an entirely different purpose, not to listen to his "suffered" maxims. I've had little experience speaking publicly myself, but I've observed enough professionals to understand the process. I can't be sure how my speech appeared to others, but Crixus' monologue, despite its technically nearly flawless delivery (aside from the excessive usage of "I"), evidently doesn't elicit the response he hoped for from the audience. This is because every word needs its appropriate time, and he has miscalculated this. His daring act of revealing his face to the world could have been a more effective platform for conveying crucial thoughts right now, in this very moment. I'm even slightly regretful for the missed opportunity.
Wait! This isn't good: all the Knights on the roof have spontaneously split into two groups - those belonging to the BKDW and those outside the organization. I understand that this division is quite natural because both Crixus and I were approached and greeted, but nevertheless, this could become a dangerous precedent. Therefore, this trend needs to be nipped in the bud.
As soon as Crixus pauses, I leap onto the communication antenna, which towers one and a half meters above the roof. The crowd responds to my sudden movement as I'd intended. Firstly, everyone merges into a single group, and secondly, Crixus falls silent, not continuing his speech. Excellent, now the main thing is not to squander this moment, as the reckless raig just did.
"There's a time for words, and there's a time for action. Enough words have been said for today."
I pause for a few breaths and provide an opportunity for anyone who disagrees with me to speak. But everyone remains silent, even Crixus, who seems to understand that his passionate speech was delivered at an inopportune time. Now comes a perilous moment: I want to push forward, and it seems the timing is well-chosen, but if I err, I risk undermining everything done and said earlier with a single sentence. However, if I allow the situation to continue to develop on its own, Crixus will collect his thoughts and, riding on the momentum of his act, could lead the raigs in a direction only known to him. Considering his apparent deep-seated hatred for all shapeshifters, this could lead to exactly what I've been striving so hard to prevent.
"Those who are prepared to not recklessly swing their blades in a righteous thirst for revenge, but to do the job required of them, raise your hands."
There had already been plenty said this morning for those on the rooftop to decide their direction, so the unified response from the Raigs, expressed in raised hands, didn't surprise me much.
"Knights of the BKDW and Free raigs of Novilter, are we ready to act in unison, regardless of your affiliation with the organization or lack thereof? To ensure that the deaths of Jeanne, Thomas, Max, and Andre do not go unpunished?"
I intentionally named the deceased. As far as I can recall, such a move stirs personal emotions in those you're addressing. For a moment, I feel like a shameless manipulator, but this fleeting sensation quickly dissipates.
The raigs' attention is entirely on me, but it won't last. I have to seize the moment.
"Halley," I turn to one of the most respected raigs of the BKDW. "Many people know and trust you. Are you willing to take on the role of coordinator? To become the one to whom all information flows? Can you spare the time for this?"
Am I making the right move by going beyond general words and slogans? Whether this is a mistake or not will soon become apparent.
"Time?" He seems a bit surprised by the question. "I have time. I'll stay on this roof as long as my supply of prana permits. And I'll return daily. I'm not certain I can manage it, but..." The wiry raig straightens his shoulders. "You're right, 'nobody but us'."
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"Rex." I tread on thin ice here, but he needs to have a purpose. Otherwise, left to his own devices and driven by a desire for revenge for his loved one, he could create significant problems. "We need to meet with the Castle's curator and cross-reference what he says with what we know by then."
My words, expressing mistrust toward the shapeshifters, seem to resonate with Crixus, who nods in satisfaction. However, he isn't the only one. I've noticed a fair amount of bias among many Knights against all clansmen.
"Usually, Max or Maya would meet with the curator," Rex steps back a little.
"Do you not know how to contact him?"
"I do, but..."
"Or do you know where to find Maya?"
"No." The young man shakes his head as though dismissing thoughts or fears and then straightens his shoulders as if making a significant personal decision. "Okay, you're right - someone has to do it. And I can definitely do it better than Leonidas."
Upon hearing his name, the named Knight snorts derisively behind his visor but doesn't voice any objections. Then, taking a step forward and nodding to Shiko standing beside him, he speaks up.
"About Maya, we need to find her before she causes trouble. Shiko and I know more about her than anyone else, so we'll take it upon ourselves to locate her." Damn, that was my initial plan, but it's not the best time to refuse the guys, so I express my agreement with a nod.
"We..." Tora steps forward without releasing her sister's elbow. "We have a bit of knowledge about pharmacology." The girl is shy, looking down, but continues. "We'll join those investigating the gas used by the rats, to discover what they used to poison the guys." Kael, silent as ever, nods in agreement without lifting her gaze.
"One of my relatives works in the police," Quintus steps forward as the girls retreat. "I generally know where and who to listen to. Not official reports, but the places where people speak candidly. Not today, but maybe in three days, I might be able to find out everything the police know." He shifts uncomfortably. "But I'll need help; I can't do it alone."
Four non-BKDW Knights, who had only been listening until now, raise their hands in response.
"I might take a stroll to the Castle," Crixus offers with a grin. "Just a leisurely walk, listening in. I promise I won't kill anyone!"
"Hold on!" Halley instantly responds. "What I'm about to say concerns everyone, so please listen. Many of you have seen the enchanted glass in the lobby of this building, designed to detect Break Knights." A look of realization crosses many faces. "We have similar, but subtler, artifacts handed over to the security of the House on the Hill and special services. These things won't be noticed by any of us, but as soon as a projection comes near, security will be alerted. Now is not the time to conflict with the Castle. In fact, the Castle and the special services should only be visited if we catch them lying or withholding information. Until then, we should avoid such demonstrations of mistrust."
"Alright," Crixus surprisingly quickly concedes. "Then I'll join Halley — he'll need someone to cover his duties anyway."
Sly fox! It seems like this was his intention all along, but he didn't want to suggest it outright. When his idea of visiting the Duke was shot down, he seemed to reluctantly agree to take on another task.
I had expected his proposal to be met with hostility, considering he's a newcomer and has already caused some disturbances in the city. However, even Halley gratefully nodded to his suggestion. Crixus is far craftier than he seems, a natural schemer. I mustn't forget that.
While I was assessing the former heir of a shapeshifter clan, other Knights stepped forward offering their assistance in various matters. There was no need for my intervention. Halley, Leonidas, and surprisingly Crixus, managed the task distribution themselves. They even designed an interaction and substitution scheme on the spot. They're not as naive as I first thought. Once I nudged them in the right direction, they managed to self-organize. Although there were mistakes, shortcomings, and failures, they did it on their own, so I didn't interfere even when I noticed noncritical flaws. I chose to sit on the parapet, unnoticed, just listening and observing.
"I apologize." An unfamiliar raig raises his hand to catch our attention. He's clad in mail armor with plate inserts, a pointed helmet with an ornate visor, and a heavy saber at his side, presenting the image of a steppe warrior during the prime of nomadic empires. I believe he goes by Timur. "I'm only at the first level and running low on prana. I've got about ten minutes left, no more."
"Raise your hands, who's running low on prana?" I spring to my feet and throw the question to the crowd. A forest of hands goes up in response.
Right, most of the raigs here are of a lower level and don't have much energy. We can't risk them dropping out of the Break right here.
"Don't take unnecessary risks. Retribution takes time. Don't drain your prana completely. Always leave enough for a safe departure."
"Maestro is correct." Halley seems to have accepted his newfound leadership role. "Safety is our primary concern right now. Crixus or I will be here on this rooftop, in the Break, for another hour. And then again from six to eight in the evening. You can easily find us here if you have any questions or information."
When did they agree on this? I completely missed it.
Five minutes later, only six Knights remain on the roof, including me: Halley, Crixus, Quintus, Shiko, and Ungor. The latter is the only solo raig in the city to reach the third level. Short and broad-shouldered, clad in full plate armor, he reminds me of a gnome as described by Tolkien in his saga, and his blue steel ax completes the image. The Padawans wanted to stay, but I shooed them away, not feeling ready to talk to them just yet.
"There's a problem," Ungor's deep voice, more suited to a mature man than a young one, captures the attention of everyone who remained. "Or a potential problem. I didn't see a single representative from the Masks on this roof."
He's right! There wasn't a single raig from that organization at this impromptu meeting.
"I've heard, and I'm inclined to believe," Quintus responds, "that the Masks work directly for the Duke, bypassing our curators."
"Where did that information come from?" Crixus asks, immediately perking up.
"Max mentioned it once, I don't recall when, but it was his belief," the Knight in Roman armor replies.
"It could be true," Halley interjects, folding his hands. "Network security without the support of providers and special services is more of a myth than a reality. They're definitely not independent players. Otherwise, their site would have long been shut down. I know Max has talked with their leader, Mersk, on more than one occasion, but I don't know the details. If Kraas was confident in this, we should consider this possibility."
"Is this a problem?" Crixus practically jumps on the spot, his hand clutching the hilt of his sword.
"I don't believe it's an issue at the moment." I feel it's time for me to step in. "But it's something we need to bear in mind. Thank you for bringing up this detail." I nod towards Ungor.
"Guys," the raig, who resembles a dwarf warrior, starts to speak in a slightly guilty tone. "I've always appreciated the concept of BKDW, but by nature, I'm a loner. I stand with you, and I'm ready to fight against these rats. Kraas was someone I idolized, looked up to, and now he's gone... I won't join anywhere. I will remain independent." He speaks with difficulty, as if he's struggling with emotion. "Reach out to me if you need a steadfast Knight in challenging times. I'll leave my contact details. My ax is at your service. But all this surveillance, this gathering of information, it's not for me; my weapon stands against it." Without further elaboration, he leaps onto the parapet. "Maestro, thank you for your words." He sees my raised eyebrow — my expression is easily readable without a helmet or visor. "You're right: 'Nobody but us!'"
I feel a twinge of guilt for borrowing this motto from my world, but it's true what they say: once a word is spoken, it can't be taken back.
With a raised fist in a farewell salute, Ungor jumps down.
"Maestro," Crixus calls my name in a tone that spells trouble.
"Yes?"
"It seems everyone's busy, but we haven't heard what you plan to do."
His voice holds a clear note of mockery, but this time he's off the mark.
"As always," I shrug, "I'll do what everyone else is avoiding."
"And what's that?" Shiko asks, surprised by my response.
"I'll visit the clerics."
"Oh!" Realizing his mistake, Crixus frantically searches for words, and the best he can come up with is, "You're right. Someone needs to find out what they know too."
The fact that everyone overlooked this matter is clear evidence that many raigs are wary of the clerics. Not the religious clergy per se, but the Gifted who fill the ranks of clergy, monks, and priests.
"Thank you." Halley sounds as though I've lifted a heavy burden off his shoulders. "I thought it would be up to me."
"I'll try to be here at six. But I can't promise — it depends on my energy." I nod to the Knights, giving myself an out if something prevents me from showing up.
After saluting with "Word," I take a step back, drop down, and immediately enter Sliding.
I still believe that finding Maya should be my first priority, as I doubt Leonidas and Shiko will succeed. However, I decide to start my search by talking with Tu Chong, confident that after experiencing such a traumatic event as the death of her friends, she would definitely seek out someone she respects. In other words, I'm heading to the Abode of Knowledge. Formally, this counts as "visiting the clerics." Nevertheless, a conversation with the monastery's abbot was part of my plans anyway, not just because of the search for the missing Knight maiden.