"DISGRACE." The elf sitting next to SJ shouted. She had been in the chamber for four hours, listening to arguments for and against new propositions. If an outsider had been watching the proceedings, it would have been blatantly obvious that the council decisions aligned with those of Asterfal's central council. Various propositions that impacted the region were brought forward, and all but one were voted in.
Gullifer had been grateful to SJ for discussing Legionnaires with him, although she wasn't sure she had been any help. Without going into detail, she had tried to explain the cultural differences from where Legionnaires originated and that asking them some base questions on arrival may support what could help them find their position and also support the town. It had been a strange concept thinking about how Earth's variances could impact Amatherean arrivals, and she hadn't even considered it herself until the discussion.
"Well, that has been the most frustrating time I have spent in over a millennium," Dave suddenly said. He had been silent almost all day, only briefly talking to SJ but not going into details about what he had been up to.
'You still haven't told me what you have even been up to?'
"I haven't? Sorry, I thought I mentioned it before. You know, we discussed a dungeon core previously."
'Yes, and I am guessing it's a no based on your response.'
"Actually, no, and that's the problem. They didn't provide an answer. I have been arguing about the territory boundary integrations and that with the boundary changes, level increases for those areas should allow for improved facilitation of resources. They argued about the need for balance and justification in any system intervention. I then reminded them of what they were doing to the entire continent. That took us down a rabbit hole. Even the adjudicators admitted they weren't fully aware of the System's plans and what it aimed to achieve."
'So the adjudicators are at as much of a loss. But what about the dungeon core?'
"In concept, they couldn't argue with my proposal of allowing growth through Legionnaires within these new boundaries that are being drawn as towns grow. The Legionnaires would have access to a dungeon that could support their continuing growth, allowing for the town's potential to increase in a more controlled manner. I explained that the quest system was inadequate currently, which they took offence to.
That caused an argument, and they ended up having one of the quest admins called in to explain the progressive nature they were applying to improve experience and rewards aligned to the newly allowed levels. I explained that many of your quests had been repetitive since, which would have pushed many away from an area.
It appears random town growth is causing chaos across the continent. As your friend Gullifer mentioned, not knowing or foreseeing when a boundary may change is causing them massive headaches. A town in the north has expanded its boundary twice already—within a two-month window."
'How you can't level that quickly? I quested daily to reach level 19 as fast as I did.'
"The Legionnaire, who has triggered the growth, immediately joined a city guild and met up with someone he knew back on Earth. As you can imagine, the chances of this happening are billions to one. His previous colleague is a much higher level and has since been power levelling them in a dungeon."
'I didn't realise you could do that?'
"Dungeons come in differing formats, and some of the earlier cores are not as restrictive regarding level variance. The newer developed cores have cap boundaries that prevent this. Replacing an active dungeon would destroy the surrounding ecosystem, and they won't switch the old models out, as it takes months for new cores to develop fully."
'Aren't cores all system controlled?'
"They are system-added, but a dungeon core is like a Legionnaire. It can grow and progress. To replace an existing core would mean starting from scratch, and they won't change them, meaning that some out there still support power levelling. Modern cores work under party levels or individuals. Many of the ancient dungeons are now inaccessible. They grew so powerful that even high-level beings couldn't complete them. The other side is those cores that eventually run out of essence because they do not understand their growth. It is no different to Legionnaires who fail because of mistakes trying to level too quickly."
The thought of dungeon cores being sentient was strange to hear. 'Do dungeon cores have administrators?'
"Meh. They aren't called administrators," Dave answered in disgust. They are known as controllers, lower-echelon AIs with no personality who always live in the dark. It's a very drab existence. Most of them are collegiate dropouts."
'So where do dungeon cores come from?'
"Ah, cores are bred. They are rumoured to originate from the Requiem, but I honestly couldn't confirm. They are working on an issue with a new strain that is preventing fresh additions. Until this is resolved, they cannot consider my proposal."
'It wasn't that bad an outcome, then? They didn't say no.'
"They also didn't say yes and are unwilling to speak to the system about my proposal until they sort out their production issues, for which they couldn't give me a timescale."
"Ambassador for Killic."
"Ambassador for Killic."
SJ snapped out of her thoughts and looked down at the podium where the chancellor sat, realising he had spoken.
"Yes, chancellor?" SJ said, her cheeks going hot. She realised everyone in the chamber was now looking at her.
"Would you be so kind as to explain your thoughts about the trading alignment we discussed?"
The comment took her off guard. She hadn't even considered the proposition beyond the discussions she had with Berger, Farhi, and the council leaders in the chancellor's chamber. Feeling the chamber's eyes on her, she noticed Otherlisar looking in her direction from down in the front row of the chamber, smiling. The bugbear nodded at her, showing encouragement.
"I can, chancellor. I wasn't expecting to discuss the matter today, as it is a new proposition and has yet to be ratified." SJ then began the lengthy process of explaining the proposition. She included elements that the chancellor and lead councillors had mentioned, allowing for easing the amount of associated administration for the presiding city councillors and the bonuses that it would bring to regional representation. Trying to spin as much positivity to both sides of the argument for and against.
SJ knew it would mean that the regions would take some elements of control away from Asterfal with the proposition, with a conglomerate approach allowing for better trade rights. The transition of power to negotiate regionally would be a significant shift. As she spoke, murmuring and discussions began to break out, and on several occasions, Darwinial had to call for silence.
It was obvious the reception was mixed from the city council. The looks of some were not particularly friendly.
"Thank you, SJ," the chancellor said once SJ had explained. "I have already discussed this matter with the lead council and Fasvil, our esteemed trade councillor. Fasvil will oversee a trial of the adopted system over the coming months to see how it works, and if it is successful, then I will implement it across all sectors.
I will now close today's session. When you voted me in as chancellor, you knew my thoughts on the structure we have adhered to in the council for generations. We have grown and grown to where we spend so much of our time doing administration and so little on the development of our great city.
I am sorry that several in this chamber believe they have rights above their station and are better than others. I am sure many of you know what has occurred with Malaki Fretun, and I wish to confirm this matter openly to stop all the whispers in the tower's corridors.
Malaki believed he was above the laws of Asterfal. He had been a councillor for a long time and recently became a direct advisor to me. And you may wonder then why I have so easily stripped him of his rights and position. The answer is simple. Not one being, including myself, is untouchable. When you stand and take the oath to join the council and work in this tower, you do so with the expectation of the city at your heart. Sitting in this chamber and working in this tower carries a sense of duty. However, numerous individuals mistakenly view it as a privilege. Advisors should sit with even higher regard than councillors. They are directly responsible for the direction and support of our newer council members. Yet, some only work for personal gain.
I heard a tale today that I would also like to share. It reminded me personally of why I always wished to be chancellor and what we should stand for. I will not share the names of those this relates to, but I will tell the story. A family from one of our districts recently fell on hard times. This family has worked tirelessly for years, scraping a meagre existence in one of our districts, and as of yesterday, their fortunes turned.
Someone, maybe the person sitting next to you today, has changed their lives forever. How, you may ask? Through a selfless act. They have bought a property in Asterfal and allowed this family to move into it. This family has moved from one of our worst slums to one of our best areas, and their future now is bright and positive. Do I see this as something all should do? No. I do not. Do I see this as a beacon of light across our darkened city streets? Yes, I do. Starting today, we can all show compassion and support for those in weaker positions than ourselves."
Shock registered with SJ as she realised the chancellor was talking about her. 'How does he know?' As her display triggered.
Appointment: Asterfal Regional Council Representative
Status: Active
Relationship: Ambassador of Killic
Reputation: Friendly
Future interactions in Asterfal will allow for an improved outcome. Quest gains increased by 20%.
"Reputation gains already. I wonder if that was triggered by the chancellor or through the council. This chancellor appears to have much more to him than I thought," Dave said.
The chancellor continued. "I expect we look at our city with fresh eyes. You know my background. I have never shied away from my beginnings on the streets to where I now sit, and that has come through my relentless determination and the support of those around me. I wouldn't be here if it was not for many in this chamber who saw in me what I hope we can all see in our city.
I am also, as of today, removing peerage rights. Districts will no longer be transferred to family members. If you attained a role during the inauguration, your future now sits in your hands. Open district voting will begin for any future positions."
Cries of protest erupted from several in the city council. Darwinial bellowing for silence.
"I know some have always tried to do what they can in the districts, and I thank you and wish you to continue. Others in our districts and some areas do not perform their duties as well as they should. You will not just sit back and allow your districts and areas to fall into disrepair or, in some areas, violence. Corruption will be wheedled out. The state of some areas of our city is dire. We sit here in our tower and look out at the masses, thinking we are doing a good job. I can say now that we are not good enough and must improve at what we do.
I always said I would bring balance to our great city, and I will. No more will I allow the demeaning and poor behaviour of some sitting here to taint our good name and work. Concerning the continuing amendments to the structure, a new branch will also be confirmed under the direct oversight of Alec. He will perform council and district audits over the coming months to ensure that our city's basic needs are being met to the level we expect for our city. This may be uncomfortable for some of you to hear, but you know who you are again. If you feel uncomfortable now, then I suggest you consider your actions going forward.
Asterfal is the candle in the south. We hold a privileged position, not just of power but of responsibility to support the regions. The changes that are in play across our borders will, in time, allow others to grow and develop, and I wish Asterfal to remain the southern light. If we are not careful in time as expansion continues, others may step forward and take our role. I do not wish that to happen, but I will not bully or browbeat or belittle others to achieve this. I will do this by being the southern region's support and crux."
Initially, silence greeted the chancellor's comments before the chamber erupted in stamping feet and cheers of support. Looking around the chamber, SJ could see several were unhappy with his comments, especially Lieutenant Jelart, who controlled District 3. He sat with a sneer and looked at the chancellor with disgust.
"I can see considerable fallout from today's meeting," Dave said.
At no point had SJ expected to hear the chancellor's comments. She had thought he was as much a part of Asterfal's problems as many others who worked in the tower and the city's inner circle. This seemed not to be the case, and SJ felt pride in his words and a sense of conviction.
The conversations began as the chancellor and the leading council stood and left the chamber. SJ had been sitting alone since Zigferd hadn't returned yet and felt uncertain in the bubbling chamber. A friendly voice called her name as she made her way down from her seat.
"SJ."
Turning, SJ saw Larianco.
"Hi Larianco. What can I do for you?"
"I just wished to say thank you."
"For what?"
"In under five minutes, you have just changed the outlook on fae in Asterfal. There has never been a fae councillor before, and in your first appearance, you have already proposed a significant change to the regional workings. Don't be mistaken. Many will be unhappy, but many will also see it for what it is—a time for change."
"I just proposed something to ease time and effort by all involved."
"You have, yes. It is common sense and a basic that you would have thought would have been implemented years ago. The fact that a fae proposed the change is unheard of. Remember, fae are considered selfish and thought not to consider others with their actions. Your speech today has shown a side that we have been missing from our race, one that used to exist millennia ago. Fae were not always hated. We used to be the shining light of Amathera."
"I am aware of the acts of Gavia."
Larianco spat. "Please, never say that name."
"Sorry," SJ apologised.
"You wouldn't understand the harm he did and caused to our kind. His name is not to be spoken. Unfortunately, there are still many who follow his preachings and beliefs. Fran was right about you."
"Fran? What has Fran said?"
"You are a beacon for change." With that comment Larianco turned and walked away again, leaving SJ stood open-mouthed. As SJ stared at Larianco as she walked away a hand clapped her on her shoulder, making her jump.
"Well said today," Berger congratulated her. "You sold the proposition well, giving justification to both sides for change."
"I never expected to speak today. I didn't know the chancellor would ask me to speak."
"This chancellor is not like many before him. From what I have seen and what he has said today, he has the region's best interests at heart. I only hope he can fight through the mistrust and corruption that exists in the city."
"I have witnessed enough since I arrived here."
"Only time will tell, but I hope he succeeds."
Walking from the hall, SJ went to the desk again to ask if Zigferd had returned. It was now late afternoon and there still had been no sight of him. The clerk handed her a message that had been left for her.
'I wish he would get back. I am getting worried.'
"I am sure he will be fine."
'I hope so. I just wish I knew what he was up to.' Opening the letter, she read the contents.
Meet at the park, I will know when you arrive.
C.
"Exciting. Another quest, perhaps," Dave said.
'Perhaps. I am going to the house to see how they are getting on and will then head over.'
Leaving the tower, SJ performed what had become a standard transformation now, walking to the nearby bushes before shrinking and changing her dress. She felt like Superman when he transformed in a phone box. Arriving at the house, the double doors were open at the front, and she could hear Jay calling. Landing on the balcony to her room, she entered, growing and was amazed at the changes. Since her brief conversation with Yawnee, the room had already been partly furnished. She realised drapes had even been put up at the windows and across the balcony, not having noticed on entering.
"Wow," SJ said.
The large open area now had a large bed, wardrobe and desk positioned in it. A huge soft rug now covered a significant amount of the room's floor. The pastel colours of the drapes and rug matching perfectly. She couldn't believe that so much had already been done. Walking down the stairs, she called out, not wanting to scare anyone. Yawnee's grinning face appeared from the bedroom doorway.
"Hi SJ. I hope you like the start of your room?"
"I can't believe you have done so much already."
"The difference between walking into a trader with coin in comparison is quite significant. They will do anything for you."
"I can tell. Are you fully moved in now?"
"Almost. Jay and Cristy are just unloading the cart from our last trip. I think that will be everything then. Lurtew is out presently. He has gone to speak to the mage's guild about hot water."
"That's great. I will see how they are getting on," SJ said, continuing down to the ground floor.
"Left a bit, no left, not right," Jay called to Cristy, who was holding the other end of a large worktable.
"Left, right, left, right? Make your mind up will you, this thing's heavy," Cristy complained. SJ could see the matted fur on her forehead from the exertion.
"Hi."
"Hey," Jay smiled. "Ok, just there."
Cristy dropped the end of the worktable with a thud, groaning. "I don't like moving house."
Smiling, SJ looked around the open garage area, for a better of a word. The coopers' materials had all been brought over and neat stacks of wood and metal strips were now positioned around the area. All their tools were neatly laid out on the worktops, and it looked as though they had already been here a long time.
"You have been busy."
"Very," Cristy groaned, rolling her shoulders.
"Stop complaining. We will turn you into a big strong gnoll, eventually." Jay said.
"I never said I wanted to be big and strong," Cristy complained.
"You said you want to fight in the cages. You will never make it with that attitude. A little hard work, and you complain already."
"Cristy," SJ said in shock. "What do you mean, fight in the cages?"
"Jay told me all about them. It sounds fun."
Scowling, SJ rounded on Jay. "Jay. She is impressionable as it is. Don't give her ideas."
Grinning, Jay looked at SJ.
"I'm not impressionable," Cristy said.
"Really? How many times have you changed your mind over the past few months?"
"Not that many."
"One minute, you want to learn a musical instrument, the next, you are back at training with your bow to become a ranger, and then you are asking Gary to teach you about swords. Never mind trying to get Nexis to teach you about auction houses, Kerys about being a brewer, Zej about being a smith, and Alice about being a druid."
"I am just growing up, that's all."
"So you admit at long last that you are still growing up," SJ smiled.
"I meant making choices for my future," Cristy sulked.
SJ laughed at her response. "You have time to learn and do things as you get older. Don't think you have to chop and change now. Focus on one thing and improve that before jumping to another. And before you get any ideas. I will never allow you to fight in the cages."
"But..."
SJ cut her off. "But nothing. I couldn't watch you getting hurt."
Sulking, Cristy kicked the leg of the workbench and then cursed, holding her toe.
Jay and SJ tried not to laugh.
"Thanks for helping today, Jay."
"My pleasure. It's made a nice change, and Cristy for all her moaning has been fun to work with," Jay said, reaching and ruffling her head.
Snapping her teeth, Cristy pretended to bite at his hand.
"I have to go and see someone about some business. I will be back later."
"Do you need a lift?" Jay asked.
"No. I think I will walk." SJ said, leaving and heading to see Carlito.
