The Lightbearer's Gift

We were only a few days out from the Hearthaven capital. Once we started to pass constant guard patrols it became less of a worry that we were going to be attacked. This led to our pace slowing down, not that I minded, riding in a carriage on rough terrain was rather uncomfortable.

The reactions from most of the caravan were as expected, a combination of fear and appreciation for our actions. My cold personality didn’t invite people to thank me in person, so Benny was used as a mediator. Even though she killed far more than I did, her sunny disposition was far more approachable. I didn’t mind, but it was a pain dealing with a carriage littered with gifts of gratitude.

While I didn’t care about their gratitude and found it a mostly annoying chore, Benny was having the time of her life. She had what I can only describe as a fan club of young women her age and younger that followed her around and attended to her every wish. I had to assume that it was the parents of the travelers and merchants that prompted them to approach her with friendship, Benny’s charm did the rest.

She shamelessly showed off her abilities to them and that made them even more fanatical in their worship. I suppose having someone of your own age and sex be so powerful must be endlessly fascinating for them, since even the guards and older men bowed to Benny. In a patriarchal society such deference was not shown to women of common birth, but Benny was no commoner anymore and her power and position as my apprentice demanded respect. She was falling behind on her practice, but she had earned a few days of relaxation, so I didn’t bring it up.

I was left mostly alone, a fact which I was grateful for. Most of my interactions were with the wealthier merchants and the guard captain. I watched in mild amusement as Benny entertained her gaggle of young women by levitating a carriage 10 feet off the ground. The girls clapped and begged her to show them even more magic.

From the corner of my eye, I spotted Anor Debray approaching me. He was the owner of at least two thirds of all the carriages in the caravan. Anor was an obese with a man of average height with blonde hair that ended at his neck. His beard and mustache, which were usually clean shaven, were just starting to grow in. If not for his weight he would have been a rather handsome human man. Over the years Anor grew his trading business with Wigmore, catering to the nobility by transporting expensive goods. The rest of the carriages, not owned by him, had to pay a percentage of their profits to him or travel alone, since all the guards worked for him.

A ruthless businessman he may be, but he was one of the few people amongst the caravan that I had any interest in conversing with.

“Anor, how do you do?” I said as he approached.

I was sitting in front of my carriage enjoying a bottle of wine that was one of the many gifts of gratitude. Anor, who didn’t seem to care about dirtying his clearly expensive clothing sat next to me on the grass.

“Fair enough my guardsman say we will reach Hearthaven within two days.” He said.

“Good, I grow tired of traveling. Any idea what Baroness Hearthaven will do once she gets word of the attack?”

From the few left alive after their failed attack, we learned that there were actually two other baronies involved. One was Cedwain to the east and Blackhall to the west. Baroness Hearthaven controls most of the southern coast of the Great Stormveil Sea. So, she effectively had a stranglehold on the over lake trade routes, which was far safer and faster than traveling over land. The two other baronies were technically in vassalage to her. But it seems that they have grown weary of her significant taxes on imports. Her stifling of trade is one of the reasons that Wigmore was so poor in comparison.

“It might be a war on 3 fronts, while the Baroness is enormously wealthy from her taxes, she doesn’t have the army to fight off such an invasion.” He said.

“Do you think Wigmore will throw their lot in with others?” I asked, with her being the largest contributor to their decline. it's likely that they would.

“Hm, I think so,” he spat to one side.

Then continued. “It’s disgraceful, they break their oaths for no reason other than envy and greed.”

I doubted that he was so noble. One thing I learned from the other merchants is that her heavy taxation on trade only applies to those she either dislikes or doesn’t control. By the Mithrite and diamond encrusted earrings and rings Anor wore, no doubt he is one who benefits significantly. His jewelry alone would have been valued in the thousands, so his caravan would be a prime target for capture for an army in need of coin.

“What do you think of her chances of victory?” I asked.

This was the first time I saw concern come across his face.

“We could hold out in a siege but what’s to stop them from cutting off trade. Even worse we would be facing 6 mages. Where the baroness has only two, herself and a young man barely older than your apprentice while the baroness is powerful the young man is……….underwhelming.”

Then with a curious expression on his face as if the thought just now occurred to him. He turned to me and said,

“You wouldn’t be willing to do mercenary work, would you?”

“Certainly, however, the price is what most humans cannot afford.” I said baiting the question.

“What would be your price? I assure you the baroness has more coin than most.” He said.

It's “15,000 Gelding per month with the initial month paid in advance to my account with the Bank.”

His eyes widened at the price, I continued.

“I would be willing to lower my price to 10,000. In exchange for magical items.”

“What kind of magical items?”

“Grimoires, Etheric Gems amplifiers or other magic items that are interesting. Coin is good but I have no great need for it.”

Anor rubbed the shadow of hair on his chin considering. Then after a few moments he responded.

“I have some connections with the upper nobility, if I mention your names and your abilities no doubt, she would be willing to meet your price. Hells, she might even summon you to her keep within the day.” He seemed to be in good spirits about the idea.

“If the baroness desires my services, then she must come to me, I will not be summoned.” I said.

I had no interest in catering to human nobility and now that only the most powerful of mages could match our power, I could ignore her summons without much worry.

“Sir mage she is of the peerage it would be unseemly for her to come to you.” He said reproachfully.

So, he views the baroness as being above me. I suppose this is expected thinking for a human. Regardless, this needs correction.

I gave him a dead stare to drive home my point.

“Listen to me Anor, I care nothing for the human aristocracy nor its customs. I am not one of her subjects to be ordered or summoned. You would do well to never forget this.” I finished with a threat. To make sure he understood that I was displeased that he decided to place the baroness above me in his mind.

“I see, Apologies.” He said.

I continued on as if he didn’t insult me.

“I can be practical Anor. So long as I am paid handsomely, I can pretend to defer to her in public, so she does not lose face. But that is only after I am paid.” I said.

I had to give some leeway for them to at least maintain public appearances. But only after I have been drowned in gold and magical artifacts.

“I’ll make sure she understands your character. If this isn’t managed properly it could end in devastation, could it not.” Anor said.

“Indeed.” I responded.

“In that case you will have to have proper lodgings to receive her.” I raised an eyebrow and nodded for him to continue.

“The Dawnflower is the best inn in the city. There is also a restaurant that many if the nobility attends including the baroness, though rarely. Tables are usually booked months in advance. If she decides to come see you, perhaps you could converse there.” He said hopefully.

I smirked as the man tried to navigate the arrogance of two mages. I suppose I could extend the olive branch.

“I have significant business to attend to. You would have to make sure that it doesn’t conflict. So long as I am free a meeting would be acceptable.” I said.

Anor licked his lips excited that I finally agreed to something. No doubt he intends to use this as a means of raising himself up. Afterall he is the only connection I would have in the city. Well, if he wanted to use me then so be it, so long as he doesn’t cause me problems I’m willing to look the other way. A thought occurred to me; Anor might as well be useful to me.

“Anor my apprentice and I need new armor, clothing, and a few luxuries here and there. We would need someone to show us around and I am severely lacking friends within the city. Do you have any suggestions on who to go and who to stay clear of.?”

Being seen as a friend to a powerful mage would no doubt bring him some prestige. It's a tossup if me being an elf would help or hurt. Regardless, the momentary confusion gave way to a sly grin as he understood the meaning of my words.

“Leave everything to me Sir mage, I have many connections in the merchant circles. There’s even an enchanter within the city I could introduce you to.” Anor said.

Now that was an interesting prospect perhaps I could see enchantment work in person for the first time. Maybe he could even create amplifiers for me.

I reached out a hand to Anor.

“I think we will be good friends Anor” he reached out a hand and we shook.

“And please call me Moon. Tell me about the Baroness, first thing first, what kind of mage is she?”

Two days later we finally entered the city. Unlike Wigmore, Hearthaven was beautiful. The streets were packed with people all lively going about their business. There were merchants a plenty, selling everything the heart could desire. The streets were clean and from what I could see there was a constant guard patrol.

“Now this is a city.” Benny said as she and I looked outside the carriage window.

“Indeed, it’s even more lively than Vernon.” I said. In the distance I could see the large keep of the baroness. It was behind high walls so I could only see the top of the buildings. Deeper still and we would reach the docks and wharfs which I intended to visit at some point. Honestly if there wasn’t some impending conflict, I would have simply enjoyed my time exploring the city.

I sat back down and enjoyed the leisurely pace as we made our way through the city. Benny had her eyes glued to the passing scenery. I hoped I could get all I wanted done before whatever conflict would occur. I at least wanted a week of leisure before going to business.

The carriage eventually broke off from the rest of the caravan and continued further into the city no doubt to the noble quarter where the Dawnflower was. Eventually it stopped and the door opened. I was greeted by Anor’s smiling face. Behind him was the inn, to say I was impressed was an understatement. The building was massive and took up almost the entire street. It was made of white stone and was over 3 stories tall. I didn’t manage to hide my admiration of the beautiful building.

“So will this be suitable?” Anor asked.

I glanced at Benny; she was eagerly nodding at me.

“Yes, I think it will do just fine.”

One Week Later

I walked into Etheric Sundries, a shop within the noble quarter that was run by the local enchanter. Unfortunately, he wouldn't be able to have him make an amplifier for me. According to Anor he was a washout from the Imperial Academy of Enchantment, so his skills were subpar. He made his living enchanting weapons and utensils for the nobility. He couldn’t do much more than make them magically sharp and durable. Still at the very least I would be able to see it in person. This is why I carried Benny's sword with me.

Benny was busy practicing magic, so I was on my own for this. A bell rang as the door opened. Inside the small shop there were shelves lined with every kind of tool imaginable. Hammers axes, kitchen utensils, if it can be magically hardened or sharpened it was on a shelf. Of course this included weapons. A young man, probably around 20, sat behind a counter. It was rather early in the morning so there was no one else in his store. He perked up as he saw me walk in.

I had gotten a dressmaker to make me proper clothing of white and silver with hints of purple to match the sword. I replaced all my jewelry with silver and amethyst to properly fit the color scheme. In my full ensemble I cut quite an impressive figure. I still followed Gardenia's advice to dress in a way that made my gender ambiguous to those who didn’t know me. I had long since stopped caring about humans being confused.

“Ah good day, Not often do I have one of the elven grace my humble store.” The young man said politely.

He stood up and made a small bow. Under his worker’s apron he wore a brown tunic, and his brown hair was tied in a loose ponytail.

“Greetings.” I said as I approached.

He eyed me up and down with a frankness that would have been impolite.

“Good day Sir mage I am Tahn would you……………..” he broke off introductions as his eyes locked on my sword.

“My word, what is that?” he said pointing at the elven blade.

“An enchanted elven blade, I Stumbled ON it, is some ruin in the south.” As I said that, I drew the blade. His eyes nearly popped out of his head as he saw the purple Mithrite.

“How?” was all he managed to say.

I’ve never actually drawn the blade in front of anyone other than Benny. So, I was interested to see how an enchanter would react to it.

“Haven’t a clue I’m a light mage not an enchanter.” I said as I sheathed the blade.

“Still a blade like that could fetch a fortune, I’ve Never even heard of purple Mithrite, what kind of chemical process could have altered its color. Perhaps it's an alloy? The Enchanters association would kill for something like that.”

He looked at me as if I had answers, but I just shrugged.

“Ah my apologies, I assume you’re here to purchase something or seek my services.” He asked though his eyes never left the sword at my belt.

“Yes, I’ve come to have this blade enchanted. If it is acceptable I would like to watch the process. I’ve never seen it done before.”

The young man’s eyes flicked to the sword I was carrying.

“That's no problem, Standard Hardening and Edge Protection as well as Anti-rust and Anti-tarnishing?” He asked.

“That will do.” I said.

“Very Good, the price will be 400 gelding, 150 if you can provide your own Mithrite.” He said.

Quite the price but I wasn't going to lower myself to haggling. Reaching into a hidden pocket in my overcoat I pulled out a single ingot of Mithrite.

“Would this be enough?” I asked.

He looked at me as if I had two heads.

“I could do 10 swords with that much Mithrite. Where did you get your hands on so much?”

“It was payment for services rendered.” I said simply.

He gave me a curious glance and said, “You are the strangest individual I've ever had walk into my store.”

He breathed out a sigh and continued.

“Come. Let's go around back to my workshop.”

I shrugged, rather confused that he was so willing to show me the process. One would assume that such things would be kept in secrecy. He led me to a room filled with strange instruments that I couldn’t name. In the center was a crucible. One side of the room was an area for sharpening and cleaning knives or other metal tools. The other had, what I had to assume, was an enchanting station. Lined along the wall were hundreds of small metallic stamps that had groves on each side they could lock together. Each letter was lest that a quarter inch in size.

“May I?”

He followed my glaze to the wall of tiny stamps.

“Sure. I’ll start on the Mithrite and prepping the blade for enchantment. It needs to be cleaned and treated first.” I handed him the Mithrite and the blade. Again, he showed no hesitation with me examining the objects.

Going over to the wall I removed one of the stamps and examined the letters. It was the Etheric Sigil for compression. I examined one after the other, noting that some of them were mathematical symbols, numbers, but most I couldn’t recognize. Half an hour later after I had examined every stamp, utterly bewildered by how it would work.

“Alright I'm ready.” Tahn said.

“Could you explain the process?” I asked.

“Certainly.”

He started by pointing to the wall of stamps.

“All enchantment is made by bonding Mithrite to the object being enchanted. Like Spell circuits, once it is charged with Ether it can produce an effect. Every enchantment is unique to the object. Its mass, weight, density, chemical composition all has to be accounted for. In sequences of 8 I will bond the mithrite laced symbols to the blade while charging it with ether. The hardening aspect, for example, takes 40 stamps to create. Using a combination of Etheric symbols mathematics and ether manipulation in an art called sigil weaving we create spell scripts that loops back unto itself recursively.”

He placed the Mithrite ingot in the crucible and with a pulse within the ether, I watched as it started to melt. I suppose this is why enchanters were most often mages with affinity too poor to create spell circuits.

“This recursion absorbs a small amount of ambient ether, essentially making the enchantments self-powered and permanent, so long as the spellscript isn’t damaged.”

So, at a theoretical level it was similar to enhancement spells like lighten but making it self-powered and permanent. I was curious to learn the process but from what I knew it would take months if not years.

“It’s almost like a second language. There are many different forms of Sigilweaving. Essence-Focused is the most common and what I am currently using.”

Then he poured the molten Mithrite into a small mold, Tahn assembled 8 stamps locking them together. Then Placed them into a strange looking hammer. He dipped the tips off all eight stamps into molten Mithrite. He poured ether into the strange looking hammer and the Mithrite on the tips of the stamps bonded with the blade of the sword as soon as the hammer made contact.

“There we go, Now I only need to do that around 20 more times.”

I watched for almost 2 hours Tahn silently as he worked. By then there were over 200 individual stamps of mithrite along the blade in strange patterns. There was also a strange line of mithrite that connected clusters of spellscript to others. Without a complete understanding of how these unfamiliar symbols worked deciphering what it's actually doing would be impossible. Now I understand why he didn’t care about me watching the process. It would be like hiding spell circuits from an average human.

“There we go, and it's done.” Than said. With a final pulse of ether, the enchantment was charged.

From within the ether the entire blade glowed proving that he did in fact enchant it. I gave him the 150 gelding he asked for and he returned the smaller ingot of Mithrite to me. I examined the blade and compared it to my elven one. From within the ether, it was clear that they were both enchanted, but the elven blade was significantly brighter. Probably due to being made entirely of Mithrite. Though I had to wonder how elves enchant items since there was nothing similar to spellscript to be seen anywhere on the blade or handle.

Tahn stared at the blade hungrily then said.

“Best to keep that blade away from other enchanters. They will hound you constantly for its secrets. Enchanted elven artifacts are worth their weight in diamond.”

I had no interest in selling the blade but still it was nice to know it was so valuable.

“Tell me Tahn how would one procure an amplifier, and what would it cost?”

“You would have to be a part of a magical institute in good standing and apply for one with the Imperial Overseer’s office. It requires a Master Enchanter’s skill. As for price anywhere from 3000 to 10000 gelding depending on if you already have the materials.”

“Are there any less official channels?” I asked in a whisper.

Tahn licked his lips and hesitated.

“There are some in the underworld with the skill to make them, however they’re incredibly illegal, since the Empire likes to control what mages have them. As to how you get in contact with them I haven’t the foggiest idea.”

“What is the sentence for having one?”

With some humor in his voice, he said.

“Death……….. For the enchanter at least. As for the mage with an amplifier it gets complicated. How exactly do you arrest an amplified mage without major casualties.”

“I see your point.”

I sheathed Benny’s sword and tucked the Mithrite ingot away. I gave him another 20 geldings for services rendered.

“It's best I get going. I have several more appointments for the day.”

I turned to leave; before I made a single step he said.

“If you ever find yourself in the Capitol There's a brothel called Cassie’s Cavern in the peasant quarter, rumors are that many in the underworld visit there.”

Well, at least I had somewhere to start.

“My thanks.” I said as I left his store.

I had to consider if getting an amplifier is worth the potential trouble. Spotting a cozy café, I decided to sit down for a small lunch and tea to consider my options. For some reason, the closer I traveled north the more tense I got. Now I plan on traveling to the seat of power for the Vendalian empire. Only a single gigantic lake stood between me and whatever destiny awaited me there. There were definitely elves within the city and it's not as if I could ever be inconspicuous with my looks.

What would their reaction be? coercion? Execution? I couldn't know with any certainty and who actually tried to have me killed in the end. There are still aspects to my abilities I need to explore. I had hoped that Noire would turn up at some point, but it had been over a week since then. It's entirely possible that she died from the change or simply wandered off, I couldn't say for sure.

Then there was the baroness, the more I learned about her the more concerned I was about how much leverage I really had. Apparently 6 years ago she was officially recognized as a journeyman Earth mage, so there was no telling what her current abilities were. Assuming she kept up her training she could be well on her way to being a master. Then for some reason or another she decided to get married and had a son Who had just turned 5. Her husband died of some unknown disease, so she returned to her home barony where her father named her as primary heir. That story seemed far too suspicious for my taste.

There were Too many unknowns, too many guesses to be made. Then there was her city, it was clean and well secured, every guard was dressed in exceptional armor, even the ones who guarded the lower quarters. Things were not lining up.

I finished the rest of my tea, ignored the remaining pastry, and made my way to the armorer to finalize the designs for my and Benny’s armor. For whatever reasons she wanted Her to be as close to mine as possible with the exception of a metal breastplate. It only covered the upper part of her torso and had a literal breast, minus the nipples, modeled into the plate. She also opted to get shoulder, arm and waist guards that were more decorative than functional.

Her final design was certainly stylish and eye-catching, but its practicality is questionable. In the end it didn’t matter. If an enemy got close enough to actually need armor for defense, then the layers of leather and chainmail along with a radiant carapace would be more than enough. The white leather would be a pain to keep clean but that was a sacrifice I was willing to make to satisfy my vanity.

Hours later I lounged on a large plush couch nursing a glass of strong bourbon in my room. Benny and I shared a room meant for visiting nobility. Apparently, most nobles couples didn’t sleep in the same bed so the suite was divided into two sections. It was of course beautifully appointed with gilded furniture and lovely servants that waited on our very wish.

Anor made as much effort as possible to be seen in public with Benny and me. While his tactics were obvious, he was a gracious host that I found to be decent company. As for Benny, she acted as if she had been a noble her entire life and ordered around servants as if she was born to do it. Once she realized I approved she took up the task of dealing with servants for me. The fear she inspired was quite amusing to see. Though her domineering did not extend to the young women on staff.

I was nearly half asleep when Benny walked into the room.

“Anor is at the door. Should I bring him in?” Benny asked.

“Yes.” I said downing the last of my drink.

Soon enough Benny brought the rotund man to the smoking room.

“Ah Moon, good to see you're available.”

“What is it Anor?”

“The Baroness had agreed to dine with you at sunset to discuss business, are you willing?” he asked though his eyes were pleading with me to accept.

I nodded.

“Wonderful, she wishes to dine with you alone, though your apprentice may attend as well if you feel it necessary.”

Was that a test?

“Will she have company?” I asked.

“No, the Baroness will attend alone so her guards will remain outside the restaurant. It will be only you, her, and the gods for witness.”

In that case bringing Benny would not be ideal.

“Very will Anor I will prepare to dine with her. You may leave” I said.

As soon as he left the room Benny said. “I guess I’m not coming.”

It's good that she caught on quickly.

“No, it would just make me look weak. For now, you’ll be my escort so dress in your full armor, while I'm with the baroness I want you to get a measure of her guards. Remember to reveal nothing, not even the tiniest of details.” I said to her,

“Yes master.” She said looking excited.

Probably because she got to wear her armor for the first time.

I dressed in an outfit similar to my auction ensemble layers white and purple with an overcoat cinched at the waist, except this time I wore no gold jewelry only silver and amethyst. The only thing that is neither silver white or purple was the single mithrite ring that I wore. It was a short walk to the restaurant, barely a few minutes, so no need for a carriage.

Benny looked less like a mage and more like some warrior princess from some fantastical story. She drew almost as much attention as I did.

As Benny and I approached there were at least a dozen armed and armored guards. One young man Anor told me about was a mage in dark red armor.

An older gentleman approached us. He bowed to Benny, and I then said. “Good day Sir Mage the Baroness has been waiting for your arrival if you would follow me.”

Benny was eyeing the rest of the Baroness’s entourage. I gave her a nod as I allowed the man to lead me inside.

There were no other customers around and as I entered the large main dining area, I noted that there was only one table with two chairs.

And there sat the Baroness.

A bit of anxiousness crawled up my spine as I got a closer look at her. It wasn't her lovely face, or her steel gray eyes that gave me pause. Nor was it her Golden hair or the lovely red evening gown that hugged her figure. It wasn't even the thousands of gelding worth of jewelry that adorned her hair, ears, and hands.

Around her neck was the single most powerful etheric gem I had ever seen. It took me a few seconds to realize that it was an Earth amplifier. The staff one the earth mage was at least a 3- or 4-times amplifier. This gem was at least twice as strong. How exactly in all the information given to me about the Baroness was this not mentioned? I immediately revaluated how much leverage to bargain I actually had.

“Greetings Moon Please sit.” she said gesturing at the seat across from her.

Dammit she took advantage of my hesitation to get the upper hand. Now I technically followed her orders and sat down.

“It’s a pleasure Baroness” I said as I sat down,

With a charming smile she said.

“It’s a pleasure to finally meet the elf behind so many rumors. I must say you are even more comely than they suggested.” with a small signal from the baroness. A servant brought over a bottle of wine and filled two glasses. As soon as she left, I said.

“Thank you for the compliment. What else do the rumors say?” she asked.

“Most talk about the strength of your magic and healing. I assure you it is all flattering, though I’m sure the late Baron Vernon would say otherwise.”

So, she knew about my displeasure with the baron. Wait? Late Baron Vernon? Does she mean what I think she meant?

“Is the baron dead?” I said in confusion.

“Indeed, it was quite the drama. It seems his drinking and whoring finally got the better of him.”

The baron was the picture of health when I last checked even if he spent the last several months in a drunken stupor. I pumped enough life ether into him for it not to matter.

“You doubt?” she said. then continued before I could answer.

“You’re the first who didn't take that news at face value, tell me what is it about your healing that makes his death so unbelievable to you.”

She was walking me into a trap. If I said the wrong thing, she could figure out that I’m a unique mage. But strange healing alone wouldn’t be enough for someone to figure that out with any certainty. I had to deflect it with the only defense I had.

I need to guard my expressions more.

“My skills far surpass that of most humans, though your magic has its uses it’s a bit primitive.” I said, trying to mimic how Lilian would approach this conversation.

“So, its elven magic? is it odd that an amnesiac can retain such skill, but I can’t say I’m familiar with your kind’s abilities, tell me the moment you woke up in that forest has a single word out of your mouth been true.”

Well then it seems she knows a lot about me, was information gathering the cause of her delay?

Don’t let it faze you, Moon. This is a good way to steer her away from the truth. She is clearly searching for some hidden truths. I might as well give her a victory to sate her appetite.

I sighed pretending as if she caught me in a lie and was unburdening myself from it.

“Oh, I really do have memories missing but I did embellish the details quite a bit. With my looks and power, exploiting human greed was an easy way to get all I wanted.”

For the first time she showed any outward change of expression as a small smile came to her lips. I had to add one more thing to satisfy her.

“You damned humans would hunt me halfway across the world if you knew about my abilities.” I said in English.

The baroness of course looked confused hearing a tongue unknown to her. But she didn’t take the bait and pretended as if she didn't hear it.

“Well then royal one, tell me are you planning on retaking your throne, I’m sure Queen Sianna would be eager to restart her line though the other matriarchs would have a problem with that. The rebirth of the Alarian Dominion, an empire four centuries’ dead, is quite a problem for those currently in power.”

Alarian? Was that Sianna’s surname? I thought elves didn’t have them; it probably means something else. It’s unlikely that elves followed the same tradition of humans in naming the dominions that they rule after their own surnames. Still, this was more information I knew about elves. Why was Lilian so sparing with the details of the empire?

‘Calm down moon don’t let her see your ignorance. She assumes I know more that I let on, might as well play into her theory’

She landed another excellent blow.

So, the baroness was a powerful mage wielding the most powerful amplifier I’ve ever seen, intelligent and resourceful enough to gather all this information on me in the space of a week.

I reexamined everything I knew about her, her over taxation on imports and trade to the other baroness. There is no chance that she wouldn’t have predicted hostility. And what did she do with the enormous wealth she had gained.

Then it hit me.

She would simply rebuild the other barnies after her victory. It would cost hundreds of thousands to go gelding but yes, she could do it. Once she removed the previous leadership all she had to do was improve the lives of the citizenry, full stomachs, safe roads, and employment will erode any resentment given time. And if she had three Baronies under vassalage then she would have a case to change her title to Dutchess. All the incongruencies with the situation finally made sense and I relaxed. While I would prefer to have a desperate, power hungry and foolhardy woman to deal with. I can still make this work.

“I have no interest in Sianna and the matriarchs, nor do I cling to the edifice of my decadent past. I’m a simple elf, Baroness titles, bloodlines and aristocracies mean nothing to me. I simply enjoy learning magic. To do that I need coin and wars amongst nobles are profitable. All you have to Baroness is pay me well and I have no problem in helping you change your title to Dutchess.”

I add ‘my decadent past’ to intentionally sow confusion. No doubt she would have picked up on that. Hopefully, that sends her on a goose chase, far from the actual truth.

There was a faint twitch in her brow as I mentioned the title change. That was enough to confirm my guess was correct. This was all a long conspiracy planned by her to place herself as a Duchess. Without a valid Casus Belli, she couldn’t invade them but now she had cause.

The baroness smiled a beautiful smile, that on any other woman would have been fit for a painting but on her it just looked dangerous.

“Well then since we understand each other shall we discuss terms.” she said in a sweet voice.

She locked eyes with me, her gaze so intense I almost didn’t register the waiter approaching with menus. He stopped and glanced awkwardly at the intense stare between us.

I had to admit she was a stunning woman and the danger she posed only added to my attraction.