"My future?" SJ said.
"Indeed. You are the first ever fae to join the council, and I would like to ensure that we are aligned."
"In relation to what, exactly?"
"How you can help our race flourish in this new world order."
"You mean with the alignment of the borders and level increases, I assume?"
"Yes. The system changes, and so does the continent's political landscape. I hope you will be the light that the fae have needed for so many, many years now."
The level of importance being placed an SJ was frightening. "I don't wish to be seen as a light. I only wish to do what I can for Killic and my friends."
"Although I appreciate your reservations, I do not believe that you will have much choice in the path you will take."
"How can my path be pre-defined? I am still new to Amathera. I don't know yet what my path holds, but it has always been through my choices and not others."
"You have entered a sphere of influence now. The opportunity you have to map the route of Killic and the fae is tied to you. I know Fran and hold her secrets. She has told me much about you."
Not able to keep the surprise from her face, "You know Fran?"
"I hope so. I am her oldest sister."
"What?" SJ said, surprised. "She never mentioned you?"
"Why would she? She leads a quiet life, not wishing to be involved in the happenings of the world outside of her academy. I understand her choices, but not her reasoning behind them. She was once one of the up and coming and regarded highly by many within the fae capital."
"She has told me some of her history with the dark elves."
"The fae capital is not a place many succeed. The animosity and internal conflict alone, never mind for other races, is stronger there than you will experience from most in Amathera. Over the past few hundred years, the fae have become more reclusive and shut their borders to many. I, along with others, see the malignance that exists in the ruling council. The influence of the dark has become apparent."
Understanding the workings of the fae capital was an area in which SJ had no expertise and couldn't comment either way. SJ noticed Larianco glance at her choker more than once as they spoke. Feeling uncomfortable, SJ couldn't help but fiddle with the Earth Stone.
"Do not worry. I will not share your fortune."
"My fortune?"
"That which you wear."
"And what, may I ask, do you think I wear?" SJ had sensed no danger, but her hands suddenly felt very clammy from the statement.
"There is no need to be afraid. I will not be speaking to others of your choker. You wear fae history and a lost treasure."
"She seems to be genuine," Dave said.
'I think so too,' SJ thought.
"You still haven't stated what you exactly wish from me?" SJ asked.
"I wish you to build the trust and relationships our kind need if we are to remain in the future. Our power is weakening, our influence has always been poor, and we need hope for the future."
"What do you mean the fae's power is weakening?"
"Fran must not have spoken to you about the issues," Larianco stated, a little surprised. "It may be because she really doesn't care anymore about our kind," she finished, frowning.
"What issues?"
"The fae magic is fading."
"Fading?"
"Fae have always been some of the strongest and most adept at magic in the land. Over the past few centuries, the magical abilities of many of our kind have faded. Over recent years, there have even been fae born with no wings or the ability to shapeshift."
The revelation of the change to the fae race shocked SJ. "Magic is fading?"
"It is. The mana influence we held for millennia has dwindled. Many believe this is because of the turbulence caused within the fae capital and the alignment towards the dark."
"You have mentioned the dark twice now. What do you mean?"
"Though there is no confirmed proof, many believe that the dark elves not only influence but also control the council of the fae. The fae history and affairs are for another time. We have plenty to discuss over your position rather than our haunted past and uncertain future."
"I am unsure what I may be able to do to change the many who holds fae in low esteem."
"I am not interested in the fae relationship within the region. I am interested in your influence and the changes you will bring to Amathera. You are in a position to shape the fae."
Frowning, SJ turned to Larianco. "I have no influence. This is my first full day in Asterfal."
"And yet you already influence."
"How? I have done nothing and only spoken to a few."
"They have designated you as an ambassador for Killic. This alone tells a tale of its own. Compared to other towns across the southern region, Killic, for its size, holds much sway. You would be surprised at how many tongues wagged before you entered the tower. Once you arrived, you confirmed the rumours that many had heard. Some on the council are scared. Not of you, but of what you stand for. A Legionnaire who is opening boundaries and levels across the territories is a concern for many."
"Why would so many be concerned by me and the boundaries opening? I am not the only Legionnaire."
"There are two main reasons. The first is because of expansion. Change. Shifts in power and influence. Killic has a mithril mine in its borders. This is unheard of. The conflict this has caused already in Asterfal has seen several allegiances change. Your role is to challenge these conflicts and bring stability. I am sure you know Asterfal is a Tale of Two Cities. The wealthy sit in luxury in the centre, while many live in squalid conditions in the districts. Those who bring this about in the council through power, manipulation, corruption, and control. You witnessed one of the district representatives this morning. Jelart. He is a vile man. His father, Kelart, was beloved by many, even if he ran the district with a heavy hand. The second point is that you are a Legionnaire. There is no other in the South who holds any position in a council. Never mind being the ambassador for a town undergoing significant change."
"Does the chancellor not wish to prevent the districts from causing issues?"
"I have known the chancellor since he joined the council. He is a stalwart kobold but has a web of deceit around him. One word of advice that I wish you to take away from this brief conversation today. Do not trust anyone until you hold a reputation with them. Many on the city council are corrupt. Few are pious. There is one sitting with you at your table who is, though."
"Who?"
"Otherlisar. She is a council member for the city. She oversees the banks here in Asterfal. I would advise to build her trust as her influence can spread far. Her dealings are so vast. No one in the city has contact with as many of the higher council members as she does."
"I know nothing of the banking system, as Killic doesn't have a branch."
"Branch?"
"Sorry. A bank of Amathera."
"I've never heard such an unusual term before. Although it makes sense to call them branches of the capital, which controls all."
"Why are you so interested in my future involvement?"
"You are a Legionnaire in a unique position with the potential to allow a town with a significant wealth opportunity to grow. At the levels Killic currently supports, it is not really a good prospect for many, but as it grows with your growth, it will be. You will see many wishing to be involved in the future."
"That still doesn't explain why you are interested in me. Unless you are interested in Killic."
"The fae aren't directly that I am aware of and I haven't even communicated anything about you to the fae capital. They have enough to deal with without being involved outside the borders. I am interested in you, as you are not just a Legionnaire but also untainted by the politics and behaviours of your kind. I may wish to call on your services in the future."
"What services can I provide you with that you don't already have access to?"
Larianco smiled warmly. "I believe that will become more apparent in time. We should return to the hall for food before this afternoon's boredom recommences."
Following Larianco back inside, SJ was none the wiser about what Larianco wished from her. The fact that she was Fran's older sister intrigued SJ, and Fran was a close friend. She wished she could message her and speak to her about it.
Having read her thoughts, Dave said, " You may be able to buy a communication stone. Nothing as fancy as Nexis owns, but a basic set. You should have enough gold."
'Wouldn't I need two?'
"Yes. You need a set for each person. Basic sets work in pairs."
'It wouldn't help me now, and I would be better getting one like Nexis then.'
"You can't afford one. They are ridiculously expensive."
'Are there no other means?'
"Yes. You can get objects that do the same job. They are cheaper but not as portable."
'If I had a stone, could I choose which object to connect to?'
"No, unfortunately, direct links require a stone for each one."
'I wish they had telephones.'
"It would simplify life, but the infrastructure is magical, remember? Communications travel via the world's ley lines and mana channels."
Ley line was a term SJ recognised. 'It surprises me that there haven't been any more advanced developments through magic.'
Scoffing, Dave replied, "How more advanced can you get? Nexis's dial allows him to connect and speak with anyone whose code he knows. No different to your mobile communications on Earth. The bonus is that there are never any black spots since everything contains mana. You can communicate anywhere, from the tallest mountain to the deepest dungeon."
'I suppose. I just wish it was more accessible.'
Larianco left SJ, heading to the far side of the hall as she rejoined Zigferd. As she did, a server came straight up to her. "Would you like some food or drink?" The server was a female gnoll, and she reminded SJ of Cristy.
"Salad and coffee please, if you have it?"
"Of course," the gnoll replied, hurrying off through the tables. The rest at the table were already eating or finished. There was still time before the next session began.
"How was your talk?" Zigferd asked.
Turning to look at Zigferd, SJ frowned. "You could have mentioned who she was."
"I thought that might interest you," Zigferd smiled.
"I am none the wiser why she really wishes to speak to me, though."
"In time, I am sure she will give her reasons. I have known Larianco for years since she came to Asterfal as the fae representative of the southern regions. The reason that Fran could establish the mage academy in Killic was because of her sister. Although I doubt Fran would be aware. Her sister has always spoken highly of her."
"She said she is her oldest sister. Do you know how many sisters she has?"
"Seven I believe. Larianco is four centuries her senior."
Shock registered on SJ's face, "I had no idea."
"There is still much you do not know about your kind. I know you speak to Fran regularly, but I doubt you talk about the basics of the fae. Maybe you should take some time to discover more about your race. The city contains the largest library in the southern region and holds many historic volumes. You can sign many of them on loan. They are not cheap to loan, but learning more about the history of Amathera and the fae in particular may help you in your role."
The thought of using a library brought a smile to SJ's face. She had always loved visiting the library as a child. Although as she grew older had not visited so often. The accessibility of everything through her phone or on the internet had negated the need. Although access to information had been easier, it still didn't beat the feeling of holding a book and smelling the pages as you read.
"There is so much I want to see while I am here."
"We will have time to see some. In all the years I have been to Asterfal, I still haven't seen everything the city holds," Zigferd said.
"What's with the districts? You have never mentioned them to me."
"There are twelve districts. Imagine a sundial. A lieutenant controls each district and has a guard force and council representatives. They are basically towns within the city. The districts run within the outer section only. The chancellors' offices control the inner sector."
"So lieutenants are high-ranking officials?"
"They are within the district. Within the council main, though, it depends upon their personal reputations. Seeing who has taken over District 3 today from my experience is not a good sign for the district."
"I would like to get to know Otherlisar better while I am here as well."
Zigferd raised an eyebrow. "And why specifically her?"
"Larianco says she has the influence over many in the city through the banks."
"She does indeed. Alice is good friends with her. I know her, but not as well as Alice."
SJ's food arrived and as she ate, she listened in to the general conversations around the table. There were various topics being mentioned, from trading rights, to guild tax, to guard numbers. There was such a complexity of elements that made up the city and the surrounding region. It was a vast amount of information to consider and absorb. Alice and Zigferd had prepped her as best as they could, but now she was here and experiencing it for herself, the task ahead of her appeared more daunting.
As SJ finished her third coffee, the ent from the chamber again blew a horn at the dining hall entrance.
"Here we go again," Zigferd said, standing.
"Do you know when they will announce me?"
"No. I only know they always announce the internal city members before stating regional changes."
The members slowly refilled the chamber, and the ceremony recommenced.
It was just after 1800hrs when the day's proceedings were called to a halt. They announced that dinner would be served at 1900hrs.
"Where is the library?" SJ asked.
"It is at the southern end of the inner sector. Did you not mention you had hired a driver?"
"I have. Would you like to come with me?"
"I have a couple of people I need to see this evening, but if you wish, we can meet later to eat. I fancy visiting one of my favourite inns. They serve the best fried pheasant in the city."
"Sure. That sounds good."
"2100hrs?"
"I will meet you outside then." Turning, SJ walked through the towers lower corridors until she reached the entrance hall. Walking to the desk, she asked for Jay, then went outside and stood on the steps waiting. The cart with Jay arrived moments later.
"Where to?" Jay asked with a smile.
"The library. I guess it is still open?"
"Most things are open all the time in the city," Jay replied as he spurred the horse forward.
It didn't take long for them travelling the inner streets, which were wide and free moving compared to the outer sector. Jay pulled the cart to a halt at the base of some steps leading to a large octagonal building. A sign positioned at the steps base stating its purpose, 'Asterfal Archives'.
"I will wait here for you," Jay said as SJ climbed down.
"Thanks." Walking to the entrance, the building's architecture impressed SJ. Large arch type windows filled its walls. There appeared to be more glass than stone in its construction. The inside was brightly lit and on entering, it was as bright as day. The octagonal shape allowed for a grand central area where a circular desk sat, with rows of shelves reaching back to each side of its sides.
The tall man behind the desk reminded SJ of a typical mage from movies and books. He wore a pointed grey wizard's hat and grey robes. He looked like her old English teacher at school. Thick-rimmed glasses sat on a short nose and dark eyes magnified beyond their size looked at her as she approached.
In a quiet tone, he spoke, "How may I help you?"
"I am after some information on the history of Amathera and also the fae."
The mans face lit up, "Ah. History. My favourite subject. Was there anything specific you were interested in?"
"I am after a general background to Amathera."
"I see. We have the encyclopaedia edition by Artillius Lore. It's fourteen volumes and some of the most precise details of Amatherean history. There are also specific texts on various historical time periods and then the racial perspectives. I believe Artillius's work is the more beneficial as it is neutral in its working. Many texts show preference for various races in comparison, influencing the historic tendencies."
"I honestly do not know where to start, so I will take your advice dearly."
"Follow me." SJ followed the man who led SJ through the shelves until they reached a section that was full of thick volumes of text. The books were significant and leather bound with embossed writing on their spines. "Here you go. The fourteen volumes of Artillius."
Picking the first volume down, the weight of the book did not go unnoticed and SJ couldn't imagine sitting holding it to read. "Are there tables?"
"There are." The man turned again and walked down the aisle they were on until he came to a space between two of the tall shelves where there was a table and chairs.
"Thank you. I will have a read of this first."
"No problem. If you require any further assistance, please let me know or if you have questions about the history. I have read most of the books we have at some point."
"I will," SJ smiled. Sitting at the table, she placed the thick volume down, running her hand over the gilded and embossed lettering. The book had beautiful engravings, and she couldn't imagine how long it may have taken someone to write it. As she opened the volume, she noticed the inside had received the same care and attention. Beautifully scripted calligraphic text filled the pages interspersed by drawings and charts. It was a masterpiece of literary knowledge.
"You need to head back," Dave said.
SJ had been so absorbed in reading the book that she hadn't even looked at her display to check the time. 'Already,' she thought in reply. Noting the page number she had reached, she closed the volume and walked to the desk.
"Would I be able to borrow this?" SJ asked to the man.
Turning from what he was doing, he smiled and said, "I'm afraid not. Original texts such as those may not be borrowed. They hold too much value."
"Oh. I see. Have copies ever been created?"
"I believe sometimes people may list sets on the auction houses that they have scribed from the original, but these are rare and usually only contain text with no diagrams. I may have something of interest, though."
"What?"
The man turned and walked to the far end of the desk, removing a small book from a shelf underneath. It was a third of the size of the book she had been reading. "This is not as comprehensive, but holds all the key information to Amathera's history. There is also a timeline of the main events which have shaped the world. It is also neutral in outlook."
Handing the book to SJ, she took it and read the cover, 'Amathera, The World That Never Sleeps'. The title caught her attention, and she noticed that the author's name, 'K Thanna', was written below it. As she opened the book and scanned the content, she noticed it was written in a neat text, not calligraphic, and didn't take up anywhere near the same space. That was half the reason the other book was large. It also contained drawings and even included a world map, which folded out at the rear of the book. Across the map were small numbers, referencing locations in the book.
"How much is it?"
"Twenty pieces of silver."
SJ coughed at the comment. "Pardon?"
"That is very reasonable. Books take a long time to write and the skills alone can take years to develop," Dave said.
'I wish there was a wiki I could access on Amathera,' SJ thought in reply.
"Even our wiki doesn't contain all the details of Amathera."
"Twenty silver," the man repeated.
SJ called twenty silver from her inventory, "Do you know the author?"
"Very well indeed. It is me," he grinned.
Handing over twenty silvers, SJ left the library with her new book placed into her inventory. Finding Jay snoozing in the cart, she woke him before heading back to the tower to collect Zigferd.
