Dual Wielding

By the time Wyn returned from his walk, Kei was already waiting for him, and he was feeling refreshed. Which was good; he had important business to take care of.

“Ready?” Kei asked as they stood outside Udyr’s office, the dark wooden door looming ahead.

“Of course. You’re sure he can do what I want?”

“I’m sure. Even if he can’t do it directly, he’ll have the influence. The merchant’s guild is by far the biggest organization in Precipice, and you’re not asking for anything challenging.”

She tugged on the handle and the door swung open silently on its well-oiled hinges, leading into the office of one of the most powerful men in Precipice. Udyr was sitting at his desk of the same wood, filling out some sort of form. When they walked in he looked up and grinned, tucking the form away in a drawer.

“Welcome back! How does it feel to return triumphantly?” He held his arms out to the side before gesturing for them to sit down.

Kei moved forward and sat immediately, but Wyn hesitated, staring down at the man before slowly accepting the offered chair. As he sat he replied. “It’s comforting to be done, it’s been a busy few days, so in that sense I’m glad.”

“That’s good to hear. To have caught him in only a few days, you must’ve worked hard indeed. I must offer my congratulations.” Udyr stood, walking over to a cabinet on the wall where he pulled out a bottle of wine and three glasses. “Can I offer you anything to drink?”

“Please,” Kei said with a smile.

Wyn wasn’t so accommodating. “I’ll pass, but thank you.”

Udyr’s eyes narrowed ever so slightly.

There it is again. Wyn noticed. That presence.

“I understand,” Udyr said after only a moment. He moved to pour two glasses, filling them about halfway before sliding one across the table to Kei. “I’ve heard some manner of report from the guards, but I’d love to hear the story straight from you two. However did you manage it?”

The story didn’t take too long to tell in its entirety, and they were able to relay most of the details rather quickly, from the stakeout, to the knife and grassward, to the investigation at the docks and finally the confrontation at his house. Udyr listened intently, his chin resting on his folded hands the whole time. When they finished, he unfolded his hands, letting them lie flat on his desk as he leaned back in his chair.

“I see. Clever indeed. Though perhaps you were a little lucky as well,” he chuckled.

“Well,” Kei said, “my brother likes to say luck is a skill. So perhaps we were.”

“And so it is… Several parts of the story interest me. This drug, grassward was it? I’ll have to look into it some more. Damn captains, they should know this is something I’d want to be informed of. Furthermore, how exactly is it that you find yourself immune to the effects?”

“That’s a great question,” Wyn smirked. “I wonder why?”

Udyr grinned. “So that’s how it is? Fair enough, we each have our secrets. Not unlike your friend here.” He glanced at Kei, who twitched a bit, but didn’t let the smile drop from her face.

“Let’s talk about my reward,” Wyn said.

“Yes yes, I have it right here.” He reached into his desk and pulled out a cloth pouch, tossing it onto the table. It thumped against the surface with the weight of gold. “Ten more gold marks as promised. It’s been a pleasure doing business with you.”

Wyn didn’t reach for the bag. “Out of curiosity, how much did the thief steal?”

“Does it matter?” Udyr asked.

“Around twenty gold marks worth of valuables.” Kei spoke up, and Udyr shot a look her way that Wyn couldn’t decipher.

“That would be correct,” Udyr confirmed, looking back towards Wyn. “Our most valuable wares are kept in far more secure locations, as are our mark reserves.”

“Would you consider that a severe loss?”

Udyr was silent for a moment, tapping his finger twice on the desk. “Not particularly. In truth, it’s hardly noticeable in the grand scheme of things. Why do you ask?”

“I’d like you to be lenient with the thief,” Wyn said.

“You ask for leniency?” Udyr’s eyes hardened.

“And not just that. I’d like you to assist more with the breathbane outbreak in the hollow as well. That means providing more funding and medicine, I’d bet you could persuade some more doctors to assist as well.”

Udyr took a deep breath. “You ask for much. Too much. Some of these things you could do with the sum I’ve already rewarded you.”

“It’s not enough and we both know it, but if twenty gold is such a paltry loss to you, then I don’t see why giving more would be a problem.”

“Let me be clear, either of these favors would be quite tall on their own. If I show leniency towards the thief, what kind of message would that send? Not only did he break the laws of this city with his theft, he brought harm to over a dozen people in the process. With that being the case, this isn’t simply my affair anymore, and I do not control the law in Precipice. Accidental or not, this cannot be overlooked. What would you have me say to those guards who were injured in his raids?”

“I’m not asking you to let him go,” Wyn grimaced. “Just… a reduced sentence. I’m sure you could manage it if you wanted.”

“And the other,” Udyr continued. “Further assistance to the relief teams in the hollow. This matter is more complex than you might assume. While it is true I have the guild’s resources and influence at my disposal, it is also my duty to wield them responsibly, and in our own best interests.”

“Your own best interests?” Wyn’s hand tensed on the edge of his chair, but he calmed himself. “Is it not part of your duty as councilor to act in the best interests of the city?”

“My interests as councilor and guild head are separate, and the resources I hold for each position are as well.”

“But that’s–”

“That may be true,” Kei interrupted. Wyn looked at her with curious eyes. She’d said she was going to leave this part to him. “But while I’m sure you’ve never done anything that might be considered a conflict of said interests, nothing prevents those two interests from aligning.”

Udyr’s eyes shifted towards her, shining a piercing crimson. “Oh? And you’re saying they do?”

“I’m saying it’s possible they could,” Kei shrugged. “But of course, you’re a merchant at heart, not a politician. So let’s be honest with each other, the real question you have is what you’re getting in return. Am I right?”

“Perhaps.”

“Wyn and Corrin are going to become spirit knights, surely such a connection is worth a significant investment.”

Wyn opened his mouth to speak, but Kei kicked him beneath the table and he closed it again. He didn’t have any issues with someone doing something to get on his good side–if the influence of being a spirit knight was something he could use to do good, he’d happily accept it. Still, a part of him had wanted to reject such a thing on principle.

Calm down, he told himself. This is good.

“Will they now? You speak of becoming a spirit knight as though it is an easy thing. While such a connection is valuable, I have no guarantee it will come to pass. And even if it does, a mark in hand today is worth more than one tomorrow.”

“Then how about something more tangible?” Kei said.

“What are you offering?”

“You’ve been trying to form such a connection with my family’s trading company haven’t you? You mentioned something similar when we spoke before.”

“And what makes you think that?”

“During our last conversation you mentioned letters from my brother. I find it hard to believe I was the only topic discussed. So what else? Trade agreements wouldn’t have required something so personal, and if it were just for profit, you would be speaking with someone from the Alphelm’s. Their house is a much larger player in Veldian trade than ours, and I know they would be able to offer better prices for simple trade. But they’re too large aren’t they? They would have no interest in you except perhaps in buying you outright. No, you’re seeking something more intimate, a true connection in Taravast, one you hope can grow into something greater given time and care. That connection is exactly what I offer you.”

Udyr folded his hands together under his chin. “That’s quite the conclusion to draw. You’re right, as it happens, but what of it? Are you saying you have the influence to make that promise? Even your brother doesn’t have such power right now, but it is through him I’m able to reach your father.”

“Udyr,” Kei said, her voice becoming sharp. “What I’m about to tell you will not leave this room. Swear it on your honor as a merchant.”

Udyr leaned in, his eyes growing more interested. “You think my word means anything?”

“I do.”

Udyr’s eyes widened slightly at that, and his hands came apart as he straightened up. “You’re young… Whatever you are about to say, Miss Kei, I would advise against it.”

Kei chuckled. “Now that’s strange to hear from a man like you. I’m even more convinced now. Swear it Udyr.”

Wyn glanced over at Kei, catching her eyes. He pointed to himself, trying to get across the message.

Do I need to swear myself to silence too?

She rolled her eyes.

I guess not?

“Fine,” Udyr said. “I give you my word as a merchant, whatever it is worth to you. Now, if you are sure, I will hear your secret.”

“My father is gravely ill. Soon, he will be the head of house no longer.”

Wyn wasn’t sure he understood all the implications of that. So much of the conversation had gone over his head, but the way she spoke so casually of her father’s coming death, there was something there–something he couldn’t put his finger on.

Udyr’s eyes widened fully at the news, clearly understanding its significance more than Wyn. Though for a moment, Wyn felt as though he was seeing something more real than before. “You mean–”

“That’s right. Oliver will be running the family sooner than you think. While I may not have influence with my father, my brother is a different story.”

Udyr leaned back in his chair. “Much becomes clear knowing that. Though I admit, your reason for being here eludes me. Regardless, I assume you mean to blackmail me with your family’s support? That is bold.”

“Blackmail? Of course not.” Kei smiled. “I will leave the decision in the hands of my brother. However, I’m sure he intends to ask me what I thought of you when I return. Should you help Wyn, I might be more inclined to give a positive assessment.”

“Yes… you don’t strike me as the type that would slander me for something like this.” Udyr scratched his head. “It is a tempting offer, I must admit. Still, for a connection you pitched as more tangible, you still only offer vague reassurances and maybes. The upside is quite large, but I could also gain very little.”

Kei reached for the pouch of gold marks, bringing it closer to her. Then, she pulled on the string and reached inside. She took out a single gold mark, which fit comfortably in her palm. Like all gold marks, one face of the coin was stamped with a grass-like pattern which ran around the outer edge, while the other was smooth.

“What was it you said to me Udyr? As merchants we must be willing to take and accept risks?” Kei ran the mark through her fingers. “Still, you seem a bit stuck. So why not leave it up to the spirits?”

“A game then?” His eyes glinted curiously as he glanced at the coin in her hand.

“A simple one. I’ll flip this once. Should it land with the marked side up, then we have a deal. If not, you can rest easy in not granting Wyn’s request.”

Udyr stared at the coin for a long moment, tapping his finger against his desk. Finally he seemed to reach a decision. His finger paused midair, and he took in a deep breath. “I accept.”

Kei grinned. “Here goes.”

She flipped the coin into the air, spinning into a blur before falling back down. It clattered against the table, bouncing three times before settling to a stop, with the marked side facing up. Wyn let out his breath.

“A deal is a deal,” Kei said.

“And so it is.” Udyr chuckled. He reached out a hand. “I’ll ensure that adequate aid reaches the citizens of the hollow, and I’ll talk to councilor Verdell about granting leniency for the culprit. A favor for a favor. I do hope you’ll speak favorably of me to your brother when you return.”

Kei nodded, taking his hand and shaking it. “As promised.”

Udyr slid a form across the table. “In regards to our previous arrangement, I arranged for you a charter across the sea. If you take this document to the docks tomorrow morning, you’ll be able to meet your captain ahead of time. Ven is perhaps the best I know, so direct any questions regarding your journey to him.”

Kei took the document, folding it into her satchel. “Perfect.”

“And one last thing,” he reached into his desk once more. From the drawer he produced an envelope with a wax seal, holding it out to her. “I apologize for my previous words. While I believe they were true, it’s clear to me I lacked a complete understanding of your character. I would happily welcome future collaboration, and I wish you a safe journey.”

“This is my family’s seal...” Kei reached for the letter, her composure falling as her hands trembled.

“Your brother sent this along with the others. He claimed it was a message for you on the chance I was able to catch you passing through.”

She clutched the letter to her chest, eyes watering, and while at first Wyn found himself surprised at her reaction–she hadn’t even read it yet–he soon thought of his own family. How would he feel upon receiving a letter after a whole year?

“Thank you. Truly.”

Udyr smiled before turning to Wyn. “Young Wyn, your concern for others does you justice, and I am glad to see such a value reflected in one who wishes to become a spirit knight. I truly wish you the best in your journey, and regardless of the outcome, I look forward to the day when we can meet again. I have no letters for you, but as this is likely the last we will see of each other before you leave, I hope you will accept my farewell.” He bowed slightly.

“I don’t think I fully understand you, Udyr, even now,” Wyn admitted. Though he was certain Udyr wasn’t a bad person, he couldn’t pin down the man’s motives, beliefs, or otherwise. “But you’ve been very helpful. So thank you. I’m sure this won’t be the last time we meet, and I hope to repay the favor you’ve shown me some day.” He bowed back, showing the proper deference to the older man.

Following the farewell, Wyn and Kei left the office, the heavy wooden door closing with a sense of finality behind them, and before they knew it, they were leaving the merchant’s guild behind.

***

Udyr pulled a lever on his chair and the backrest tilted to an angle, allowing him to lean back into a position similar to laying down. The feature had been custom, and not cheap, but the comfort was worth every mark. He stretched his arms out and yawned, how long had he been awake now? It had been a busy week.

There was a series of light knocks at his door, two light taps, a delay and then a third. The code was important, it meant he could keep lounging.

Through the door walked a woman, his “secretary”. Though she was the same thirty-two years as him, she looked a few younger. He’d heard her described as plain, with a modest figure and no features that would set her apart. Udyr figured anyone who thought that was blind. As far as he was concerned, she was the fairest gem in all of Precipice.

She closed the door and walked over to his desk, sitting atop it on his side so that he could see her face from his reclined position. “Must you enjoy playing the villain so much?” She asked, her voice light and musical.

“Do you mean to say you were eavesdropping, Clara?”

It was rhetorical, he knew better than anyone she had likely been pressed against the door, listening the whole time. If the young heiress of House Ameas knew, she would likely be upset, but her secret was secure nonetheless. Clara wouldn’t speak a word he had sworn not to utter.

“Of course not,” she smirked. “I would never. I just know you so well.”

He returned the expression. “Forgive me for even suggesting it. And as I've told you before, the role just comes naturally when you look the part as well as I. How many kind men do you know with eyes the color of blood?”

“I would prefer to describe them as rubies,” she shrugged.

“And that is why you shall always own my heart.”

That smile. That winds-damned smile. “Still, you’ve taken quite a liking to them haven’t you? Especially that boy. You always have loved the earnest ones.”

“We always admire that which we cannot be. Though I’ll admit, the changes in Kei surprised me as well. Oliver will be happy to hear she’s begun to come out of her shell, rarely have I seen one so thick.”

“It’s not entirely surprising considering her features. I don’t envy her upbringing.”

Udyr nodded. “Nladian blood. I’m sure it was quite the curse in Taravast.”

“She seems to have made progress though.”

“Indeed, she did much better than either time before. Though I suspect if I had acquiesced immediately she would trust me less. It was better to argue every step of the way in this case.”

“Do you not worry that hurts your relationship with Wyn?”

“It did without doubt, but a guaranteed relationship with the Ameas’, especially Oliver Ameas, is worth more than the potential of a spirit knight–I still can’t believe that boy is only twenty. In regards to Wyn though, give it a few years and he’ll be fine, this is his first introduction to the real world. I had to make an impression, but I don’t believe he is the type to hold too firm a grudge.”

“Perhaps not, but he had already soured on you before even arriving.”

“Well he’s an idealistic child, and I cannot be. It’s truly astonishing to me how quickly the young can change.”

“You speak as though you’re an old man.”

“I’m old at heart,” he lied. “Tired, weary, and ready to settle down with the right woman…”

Clara flicked his forehead. “We should celebrate this progress. Securing this relationship with the Ameas family will be invaluable for us. And of course, you’ll be that much closer to your goal.”

“I suppose so.” Udyr peered out the window in the back of his office. The entire horizon was covered in grass hundreds of feet high. He loved that grass, and hated it as well. For all the opportunity it provided, and for all it allowed the city a niche unlike any other in Aeora, it kept Precipice isolated, separate from the rest of the civilized world. “Is my schedule clear tonight?”

“You have twelve more meetings today, and there are forty-two shipping manifests that need your attention. After that however…”

“Dinner then?” He suggested. “You choose the place.”

“I always choose the place,” she said dryly.

“And your choices are always perfect.” He took her hand and kissed it with a smile.

Clara rolled her eyes. “We’ll discuss this more later, Councilor Arnett should be here any minute now.”

“It’s just budgetary concerns for the Colossus expedition, correct? Send him in when he gets here, I don’t need to prepare.”

“If you needed to prepare for a conversation with Arnett, I would fear for all of Precipice,” she snorted before heading to the door.

He watched her depart, and then brought his chair back up into a sitting position. Slowly, he pulled out one of the manifests from his desk and began to inspect it while sipping from the glass of wine he’d poured earlier. As he made it through the list of the items, he took a deep breath, and let the mask settle back onto his face.

There were many things Udyr wanted in life. Wealth, an unlimited supply of grass wine, and a marriage to Clara were towards the top of his list. But since he had first glimpsed those towering blades of grass, and the soaring cliffs he now resided atop, he knew he couldn’t run to the east, seeking easier profits and luxuries as many others had done. He would build his trade empire right here, and change Aeora forever.