by Tony Corden
“To be honest, I’m tempted to give up, but that would be for my benefit, not yours. I got the impression that this task must be completed before Geckiş moves on. The longer it is postponed, the more pain you, and he, will go through. You both need closure and that can only happen when the choice is put before your brother and you two come to an agreement.”
“Agreement! Ha! When we’re both before Daddy, then we’ll have to fight for the job. That’s the way of transitions.”
“They don’t have to be difficult. Have you talked to him and asked what he wants?”
“Talked to him? Our brother spends all his time in the form of our mother. The only person he really talks to is himself. His different personalities are even more divergent than mine. But we’re sure he’ll want the job. He doesn’t respond to father’s requests for a meeting because he feels unloved and yet he drives himself to excel because he wants recognition. From what we observe, your ascension to the Imperial throne, more than anything else, will drive him to accept. He is a king and now he wants to be at least an Emperor. The fact that our father has accepted you as his emissary will drive Somur wild. Now, to a task. We have a small side quest for you.”
“I’m really busy and I’ll need to decline.”
“You can’t. Although we hope you die we convinced our father that this would help you and so he gave in. Inside the Eeline’s lair is a special instance modified just for you. If you complete that dungeon, then you will receive a map of Yilinlar and its surrounds, and you’ll get a medallion which provides entry to the city.”
“Is there a time constraint on finishing the quest?”
“You can attempt it whenever you want to as long as it is before you go to Yilinlar. Be warned that another Eeline will occupy the lair within twenty-four hours. That is enough information for now. Don’t forget, we are watching you.”
At that K’calama disappeared, leaving Leah alone on the ledge and free to receive messages.
Level 5 Named Personal Achievement
Skill - Beast Casting - First 10 (3, Diamond)
Atherleah (Level 306) You have learned the skill of casting while in the form of a beast. This is your third Level 5 NPA: ‘First 10 (Diamond)’.
You are one of the first ten players to learn this skill, further development can only be achieved by careful practice or by finding a Mentor.
Reward 1: 5000 x 306 = 5821650 (+280.5%) Experience Points (4250000/4250000)(4350000/4350000)(455913/4450000)
Reward 2: 10 Platinum x 3 = 30 Platinum
Reward 3: +3% to Experience Points
Reward 4: 500 Fame Points (254515 FP)
You have achieved the title: Beast Mage
A Commemorative Plaque has been placed in your bag.
She slowly made her way off the ridge and along the path toward the Eeline’s lair. By the time she arrived, she was still not fully healed. She stared at the opening for a few minutes, then turned and made her way back to the scene of her fight. She carefully studied the area where she thought Batislar was and isolated a small outcrop of rock jutting just above the canopy. She darkened her skin, assuming the form of a Dark Elf from the Siyah Clan. Concentrating, she teleported to the rock.
DUNYANIN
Leah appeared at the top of a small finger of rock which jutted above the forest canopy. She carefully looked around, and although she couldn’t see anyone, she was wary because the forest was so quiet. Cautiously she descended into the forest keeping her senses on alert as she used to when working for Jimmy. Reaching the forest floor she made her way in the direction she thought Batislar to be.
Leah moved stealthily through the trees being careful of every footstep and movement. She’d travelled almost two hundred metres when she heard voices. Soon she saw three Dark Elves moving along a trail toward what she assumed was Batislar. They were all dark skinned like her and walked casually as if the path was safe. She waited until they were out of sight and found a place from which she could watch the trail in both directions. Over the next half-hour, she saw several other groups of travellers. Most were from the Siyah Clan, although one group was mixed and had a Dark Elf from Clan Solgun. Leah also saw several solitary travellers, and though most were Siyah she saw another Solgun and a Dark Elf from one of the smaller Clans, he had dark olive green skin with hair the colour of bright juniper berries.
Leah noted that each of the elves from Clan Siyah had hair shorter than hers. She shortened her hair until it was just longer than the elves she’d seen. Leah waited until the path was clear and then stepped out onto the trail and headed toward Batislar. Twenty-five minutes later the path she was on merged onto a larger, more travelled, trail. It was another half-hour before she reached the Dark Elf city of Batislar.
The city existed wholly under the canopy. Most of the undergrowth had been exchanged for small gardens of edible crops and patches of medicinal herbs. Paths were left between the gardens for foot traffic and led to entrances to underground commercial and residential areas. In the canopy, Leah could see suspended walkways and more living areas.
The further she moved inwards toward the city centre the closer her mannerisms matched those of the residents. Most elves she saw were clearly NPCs although she did see an occasional elf who looked like a player because of their dress or mannerisms. In the heart of the city Leah found the central markets. She needed to restock with potions and purchase some better quality armour and weapons. She’d hoped to have the armour and weapons made especially but decided she no longer had time.
After some investigation, Leah ended up at the armoury considered the best in Batislar. The shop was high in the canopy, with a workshop and forge underground. Leah wandered around the showroom for a few minutes but couldn’t find any armour created for someone with her high level. An elf from Clan Siyah approached her, his hair several inches longer than Leah’s.
He said, “A traveller and a strange one at that. Most of you exaggerate your status with hair beyond what has been earned, yet you are over Level 300, and your hair length is that of a lowly, yet educated, commoner. My name is F’Dali, how may I assist you?”
“Thank you for your name, F’Dali. I am called Atherleah. I am looking for a new set of armour and some new weapons. Do you have anything which will cater to someone at my level?”
“There is little call for such high-level armour or weapons that are not specifically made for the individual. If you give me a moment, I will see if the Master Designer is free for a consult.”
F’Dali disappeared at the rear of the store while Leah waited. It was several minutes before he returned.
“Atherleah, if you will follow me I will take you to meet our Master Designer. I believe they can help with more specific enquiries.”
Leah followed F’Dali out a rear entrance and over a small rope bridge to an adjoining tree. F’Dali opened the door and indicated that Leah should enter. The door closed behind her. One side of the room was covered in shelves with materials of all types, ranging from a variety of pelts to vials of poison and different varieties of ore. At the far end was a bin filled with scrolls and in between was a large drawing desk at which was seated a female elf from Clan Solgun. The elfess stood and with a small bow said, “Welcome Atherleah, my name is T’sar Rimci. How might I help your Imperial Majesty?”
Atherleah hesitated for a moment and then said, “I am in need of some new armour and some weapons. What I have is almost worn out and was really only suitable when I was less than Level 100. Other than that, all I have is a set of armour that cannot be worn until I am Level 400. I would like something made specifically to order, but I have very little time.”
“We have some of the best smiths and enchanters on this side of Vatan working for us, and we should be able to have something for you by the morning. What did you have in mind?”
“Before we discuss it, I was wondering if my heritage will be a problem?”
“Out in public, yes! In private you will find most merchants have few scruples when
it comes to coin. You were wise to take the form of a Dark Elf, although I suggest you purchase an enchantment to hide your name. The armour is best made to fit your natural form and can be enchanted to change its shape to conform to any changes you make, such as this Dark Elf.”
“That would be appreciated. I require a full set of armour that is light and flexible or is enchanted to be. I need quick access to both knives and swords as well as the option of a bow and quiver. I have a sword and would like another, as well as a variety of knives. I have used both an axe and a hammer in the past, and my bow needs replacing. I don’t know if this is the best place, but I would also like a new staff as mine is broken, and I will need something until I have the opportunity to repair it.”
“We can do all of this. You should note that to those who are knowledgeable, it will be clear that this armour has been made by Dark Elves. Is this acceptable?”
“It is.”
“For armour of Level 300 and above there is a suggested range of materials available, and each has its particular strength or weakness. Did you have anything in mind?”
Leah explained that she while she had no preferences, she did have a range of materials she could make available. T’sar was so ecstatic at the choices Leah offered her that she ended up bringing not only the Head Smith into the discussion but also the Chief Enchanter, a master tanner and the city’s premier alchemist. Altogether Leah was occupied for over three hours working on designing her armour with T’sar. Leah ended up commissioning two full sets of armour and weaponry. She arranged for the enchanter to make a staff using the Darkness Diamond, the shards she found on the Eeline and an assortment of other gems and metals. In payment, Leah provided most of the components needed and enough additional material for another two sets of armour. She paid in Adamantine and for an additional three metres of Büyük’s hide the suits would be available the following morning.
After leaving T’sar, Leah followed directions to the alchemist’s shop and resupplied with both healing and restorative potions. The alchemist explained to Leah that she should be careful to keep a check on the level of Shadow and Dark Mana in her body because the potions were prepared for Dark Elves and might interact in slightly different ways. In addition, Leah bought a range of ingredients and then after checking in to a tavern, she spent several hours brewing a variety of potions herself.
Finally, feeling the most prepared she had for many days, Leah logged out.
5
December 14, 2073 - Part 5
THE STORK TOWER
Arriving back in the Tower, Leah took a seat in her favourite sofa and said, “So Gèng, has anything happened that I need to think about?”
“Your neural landscape continues to change, but the feedback loop and the filtering algorithm we put in place seems to be keeping on top of those changes. The final outcome we are projecting is a substantial increase in communication due to faster speeds and greater detail. Dr Roberts has modelled the increased neural density and suggests there is a probable increased risk of concussion. I am currently looking for ways to mitigate the additional risk.
“John and your father had a long talk with Lin about her situation. They didn’t mention you and Lin is on board to help identify which part of Survival she is in. The police continue to question people concerning last night, and our best estimate is that they will be here in just over an hour. Finally, Sarafaraz and Susan have found a possible avenue for me to obtain a bank account. They will make time when you are available to talk about it.
“Both Tesfaye and Reed have reported rumours of a super-hacker being hunted by all levels of virtual security. Word is getting around that the Vault was cracked. A reward of ten million virtual credits has been offered for information which leads to the identification of this hacker. In the absence of any information, the community has named the hacker Vernyx in honour of the Goddesses Laverna and Nyx.
“And finally, you have several messages. First, Dr Ellis sent a query concerning your absence last night. Next, Peter would like some time to discuss the idea of minting coins. Also, Dunyanin administrators would like an opportunity to discuss the Lanetli and your options regarding their use. Leon would like a meeting to discuss possible sites for the research facility, and finally, both Wisp and Amy have asked to know what is happening.”
“Please let Dr Ellis know that I will be there this evening and I will explain my absence as much as possible. Schedule meetings with Susan, Sarafaraz, Peter, Leon and Dunyanin first thing tomorrow morning. I’ll contact Amy and Wisp myself before I log out for something to eat. I want to spend some time with Dad and Conner if I can.”
Leah talked with Wisp and let her know, in general terms, what had happened. She promised to give more details when she had more time. Amy was unavailable so Leah left a message. Leah then logged out of the Pod.
REAL WORLD
Marie was waiting when the Pod opened, and she helped Leah to the shower before calling Mrs Lee who came and strapped Leah’s shoulder. Marie helped Leah dress before she said, “John would like you to head downstairs slowly. He’ll have some food ready and the solicitor, Olivia, will be there. They have some suggestions to make.”
Leah nodded and with more dexterity than she had earlier in the day, she made her way to the lower floor. John was waiting with some fruit, a high energy supplement, and a large shake which he said contained a selection of nutrients recommended by Gèng. Olivia was there, but she waited patiently while John explained how Lin was and the results of the discussion he and Michael had had with her.
When he’d finished reporting, he said, “Lin is in the Pod at the moment, and as much as we can we are monitoring what is happening. As soon as we have any concrete information I’ll send it to Gèng. I’ve given Olivia access to whatever intel we have on the police, their visits to the various community leaders and bosses. She’s asked to have time to brief you before they come here. At the moment they are in the Switch talking with Jimmy.”
Leah turned to Olivia, “Thank you for being available today. What do I need to know?”
Olivia smiled, “First, I want to congratulate you on your information network. I’ve never had this much detailed intelligence prior to a meeting before. Four of the reports had visual records of the interview, and I’ve been able to get a preliminary read on the police and what they want. That is the good news. Unfortunately, the bad news is that what they want is you. Right from the start they have been systematically working every angle to find something on you which would let them bring you in for questioning.
“They have to be pretty discouraged by now because as far as I can tell the people questioned have portrayed you as a saint. Two bosses purposefully left themselves open to take any heat on offer, but the police ignored them. I can’t think they’ll get anything more from the Switch either. Their questions are primarily aimed at your involvement in directing the movement of people from negative-tax areas to gather information on more affluent members of society. They are also interested in how you have managed to obtain so much, so quickly, and they are questioning its legality.
“They have some information that suggests you were involved in several criminal activities in your early years and that you have a propensity for violence. Their latest report was from last year when it was alleged you broke a boy’s limbs. The accusation was withdrawn the following day, but it is still on file. They are also asking about a John Welford. Apparently, he took the unusual move of dealing with you directly when you had your implant. The police have tried to contact him, but he has disappeared along with all his personal records. His Pod was wiped clean, and they think you were involved somehow.”
Olivia paused before saying, “You did much better that time. I got nothing concrete until the end. I think you know what happened to John Welford and you are both angry and pleased.”
“Have the police given any indication as to why they are focused on me?”
“Nothing definitive, but I believe it is a direction fro
m higher-ups.”
“What do I need to do or know and do you need anything else to prepare for the police?”
“I’d like your permission to answer questions on your behalf. I might give you the nod if it is something you would be better served answering. If so, then answer politely and with complete honesty but without giving any additional details. ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ answers are best, if possible. If not then give the simplest, most straightforward answer possible. If they ask a follow-up question then I will answer it, or if applicable direct it back to you.”
“Where will we meet them?”
“John has cleared out a small room near the lobby, and he’s set it up for the interview. With the lead time we’ve had, he has had time to insert countermeasures against anything they might have on them or which they might leave behind. If they follow the same protocol as elsewhere, then there will be three detectives and a uniformed driver. You and I will be in the room with John standing near the door as a guard. Under no circumstances should you allow them to dictate who is or is not in the room.”
“What if they ask John a question?”
“They probably won’t, but if they do, then I will answer for him.”
“Great! I hope this doesn’t escalate.”
“Unless they get something concrete they’ll have a hard time coming up with a reason to bring you in for questioning. That said, what of their allegations of an illegal and violent past?”
“It’s true. I worked with the gang as a child. It paid for protection in school. I did break some limbs last year, the guy was a pervert preying on younger girls.”
“And John Welford?”
“I don’t know the particulars but I do know why he can’t be found, and I know who arranged for him to disappear. I’ll tell you if you wish, but I’m sure if he turns up that he will have nothing to say that can be used against me.”
