The ocean breeze was fresh and crisp, blowing through Stathis’ hair. They were sliding into the harbour, ropes creaking as they were bound to the shoreline, wood coming to rest against the stone dock, Parth shrouding her wind-stone from view. Sailors shouted at each other, ensuring everything was done correctly, sails getting furled, the rocking of the ship ceasing once they were lashed down.

Stathis sighed, twisting her shoulders, her armour almost annoyingly normal again, stiff and protective around her body. The soldiers were lining up on the deck, in parade formation, ready to move out. From here, it shouldn’t take long to get to Redcastle, hopefully.

She heard the deck creak behind her, turning to see Semari jump down from the mast. Still barefoot and ragged, her skin now even more tanned from the long journey. She stretched her limbs, punching at the air.

‘Seems like most of the beasties have been, like, scared away! Was expecting at least one monster attack on the way, but nothing. Almost boring!’

‘It makes a nice change. Means we arrived on time, and didn’t have to take months for a detour.’

A wave struck the ship, making it rock about, Stathis shifting her balance about.

‘Back in armour?’ Semari’s finger flashed out, poking against the metal with a light clang. ‘Bet Janaxia’s grumpy about that. She’s been very huggy for a while, can’t do that while you’re armoured up. Least not comfortably.’

‘It’s going to be formal dress for a while. And we might get attacked – apparently there’s still a lot of monsters in the wilderness, that haven’t been destroyed yet.’

‘Yeah, had to deal with a load of them myself! While you were chilling on your beach. Woulda been useful to have you all armoured up then. And I guess Janaxia coulda done some pewpewpew to help out.’

‘Sorry. But we needed a break, and to talk through a lot of stuff. And there’s the three of them that needed some time out. Where’s the Blade, you’re normally fighting with him?’

‘Below decks. He got all interested in, like, the bilge pumps? He knows not to stab anyone, so it should be fine.’

‘Well, thanks for looking after him. Wasn’t expecting you to be so good at it!’

‘Hey, I’ve done it before! Had to help Kethys a bit, haven’t I?’

‘When she’s recruiting new thieves for the gang?’

‘Better than living on the streets! It’s, like, a trade and stuff. Like, Neitha’s all shacked up with some rich fuck over in Yulta now, before he has a convenient accident and leaves her everything – pretty good living! Worked out all right for me, hasn’t it?’

‘I hadn’t thought of it like that, I have to admit. Just maybe don’t become an assassin, as I know Kethys has dabbled in that a few times.’

‘Nah. Money’s not as good as you’d think, and the dumbasses that hire you often try to wrap up “loose ends” afterwards. Not worth the trouble, unless you’re, like, Kethys-good and have enough rep people don’t try and fuck with you. Thievery’s a lot easier! Just have to go for weird old shit that no-one will miss.’

‘Maybe wait a while before doing that? Considering everything that’s just happened, people are going to be quite tense. Sure you don’t want to come to Per Tolith? I’m sure I could find a position for you.’

Semari shook her head. ‘Nah. I don’t mind, like, taking orders from you, but being part of something bigger? Seems kinda shitty – been doing that for the last few months, not really a fan. If you tell me to do something and I don’t want to, then it doesn’t matter, but there’s probably going to be someone else getting stroppy if I try and do that, right?’

‘That’s true. Well, if that’s what you’ve decided. Just try and stay out of trouble.’

‘Don’t worry, I’m sure you won’t hear anything!’

‘That’s… probably not as reassuring as you think?’

‘Parth says she’s gonna show me some of the ancient elven stuff. That could be kinda cool – like the place with the dragon, that had all sorts of stuff. And free booze! Maybe I could ride them again as well?’

‘Just be polite, a lot of elves are rather old-fashioned.’

‘Yeah, she’s gonna try and shake them up a bit. She’s got some kind of super-fancy title now, I guess saving the world comes with some perks? So they’re going to have to listen to her. There’s going to be some changes, turfing out the old guard and stuff. You might be seeing a lot more elves around, rather than them hiding out all the time. And there’s a load of diplomating she wants to do, get some of the old lands back. Like, formally owned and stuff, not just loose and wobbly. Speaking of owned, you and Janaxia all, like…’ She scissored the fingers of her hands together, shaking and grinding them. ‘All, like proper and stuff? Now you’ve collared her?’

‘That was just a gift, and it’s a choker, not a collar! And I didn’t have any rings on me. But yes, I think we are. It’s probably going to be a bit awkward to explain, but that she turned against her family and helped defeat them should be convincing enough. Along with her lack of necromantic ability. Skotadi’s going to be harder to explain, as saying that she is one of the Black Triad is just going to raise even more questions, and having people believe that Skotadi is her daughter would be even worse!’

‘So, not gonna say anything and let people fill in the blanks? That’s what you usually do, right? Always seems a little dishonest, there. Almost screwed you over with Janaxia a few times as well!’

‘Well, it’s going to be easier than actually explaining things!’

The gang-plank went down, soldiers disembarking first, then some of the sailors.

‘Guess you’re going to have, like, a council or something to do all your explaining now? As you’re all, like, important and noble and everything? Get Dorothea to whip something up – she can probably make up, like, a whole dead noble family for her. She’ll enjoy having the chance to dress up all fancy! Just make sure she doesn’t go all evil sorceress – she looks like she’s not far off the age when she discovers boys. Or girls. Or both, I guess, if she’s taking after Janaxia. You ready for that?’

‘Eugh, no! But we’ll manage. Hopefully.’

Semari jumped away, landing on the railing of the deck, then jumping onto the shore, scattering a group of seagulls that squawked indignantly as they took to the air. Stathis moved to follow, hearing the sound of the world tearing, an arm sliding around hers as Janaxia appeared through a dark slash in the air. She was wearing her version of the dress uniform, smart and disciplined-looking, complete with her wooden sword on her belt. Skotadi was trailing behind, wearing what seemed to be a deliberately rumpled dress – was she attempting some form of contrast, or was this an attempt at independent fashion?

‘Excellent! We have arrived. I, for one, am looking forward to food that isn’t ship’s rations, even if flavoured by magic. Oh, and there’s Vrintar.’ Janaxia waved, Stathis able to spot Vrintar through the crowds bustling around the docks. Janaxia intoned a brief spell, the world going dark as she pulled Stathis forward, and then there was stone beneath her feet. She staggered for a moment, trying to get used to a floor that wasn’t moving, finding that they’d been teleported onto the docks, in front of Vrintar, Janaxia’s arm still wrapped around her own.

Vrintar gave her a friendly slap on the shoulders, enough force to make her armour clang. ‘It is good to see you again! It certainly has been an interesting time. But we have endured, and defeated a great evil.’ She smiled, before turning to Janaxia. ‘And you have progressed far, scion of the Uth Tremari. Although it has been many years since your ancestor aided my clan, I consider myself proud to have been your ally.’

Janaxia preened, stroking her choker. ‘It was my privilege to fight by your side.’

‘More like behind her!’ Semari was now perched on a mooring post, jumping upwards as Janaxia tossed a crackling bolt of darkness at her. ‘Pewpewpew! You missed!’

‘Leaving aside Semari’s objections, it has truly been an honour. Are you returning home then?’

‘I have been gone too long, yes. Now that the danger is past, I shall return, and tell my deeds to my kin. And check that my husbands haven’t been getting into too much trouble without me!’ She chuckled. ‘They are sensible, but can sometimes make foolish decisions without proper guidance. But an emissary will be sent to Per Tolith. Now that you are extending into the mountain ranges, it will be useful to have more formal links.’

Stathis held out her hand, taking Vrintar’s in a firm grip, shaking it. ‘Thanks for all your help. And safe travels home – the roads are still dangerous.’

Vrintar gestured at an axe. ‘Not as dangerous as me, I suspect! Perhaps I will have the chance to acquire some more trophies on the way?’

‘True! Well, I hope you’ll be able to come by Per Tolith. It’ll be good to see you again.’

‘The feeling is mutual, Bearer of Light. And you, Child of Darkness.’ She smiled as she nodded her head at Stathis and Janaxia in turn. ‘I will speak of you to my clan, so that your names and deeds shall become history. Even after many years, you will be remembered. And what more can anyone ask for?’

‘A most wondrous gift!’ Janaxia gushed.

‘Yeah, but be sure to put in all the times Janaxia got mind-whammied, or that time she got seduced by vampires!’ Semari had to throw herself aside to dodge a barrage of bolts, flipping herself up onto a high post. ‘Maybe I’ll try and come visit? The mountains look pretty, and there’s no guards up there. And you have good booze.’

‘You are a boon companion, and welcome. Perhaps we shall see who can consume the most? That would be a worthy competition, would it not?’

‘You bring the fire, I’ll bring the meat!’

They all laughed, before Vrintar stepped in, hugging Stathis close, hands slapping on armour. When she did the same to Janaxia, she lifted the woman up, ignoring her kicking legs before putting her back down, magic settling Janaxia’s clothing back into order. ‘Your deeds shall be sung to the stars! But the road is long and the day grows short. May your own travels be safe, and your roads clear. Until we meet again!’

She strode away, vanishing into the crowds, soon gone from sight. Janaxia pressed herself against Stathis again, making a vaguely melancholic sigh.

Semari launched herself from her perch, landing in front of a cloaked figure and grabbing them, tossing them over her back. Stathis caught a glimpse of purple skin, red eyes wincing in the sunlight, trying to break free, finally managing to slip out of Semari’s arms.

Stathis walked over, having to tug on Janaxia to pull her forward, getting there as Kethys pulled the hood over her face, covering her skin again.

‘Looks like you all made it then.’ She dodged backwards as Semari tried to grapple-hug her again, evading a grab. ‘Everything kind of went to shit, especially towards the end. Looks like you’ve managed to cut the crazy parts out of your family though, Janaxia? Good on you. Sometimes killing is the only answer. And I hope none of them are going to come back?’

‘I sincerely hope not. Although, yes, they do seem to be permanently dead, with some minor exceptions, who are safely controlled. There is some family business to deal with, and then I will be able to declare myself the heir, through dint of survival.’

‘That’s always safest. Make sure there’s no competition by killing them off. Dead siblings claim no inheritances.’ She looked between them, seeing Janaxia’s arm wrapped around Stathis’. ‘You two finally hooked up then? Well, good for you. Just try not to fuck it up. Although I guess you’re sensible, at least.’ She nodded at Stathis before turning to Janaxia. ‘Don’t fuck it up by going all “evil sorceress”. Unless she’s into that, which she probably isn’t. You’re going to have to do a lot to overcome the bias of your name, but you can probably do it. Certainly have an easier time than I would!’ She raised a hand, sleeve falling back to reveal her purple skin. ‘Bloody ancestral curses, right bugger to live with. And the same for you, Stathis. I don’t want to have to try and sneak into the palace if you turn out bad. For starters, Per Tolith has actual good security, and finding someone to bribe is a nuisance, as you pay your guys well.’

‘Don’t worry, I’ll try and rule well. Or, if I can arrange it, as little as possible – I want to try and get a bigger council or something, and let them do most of the work.’

‘Janaxia’s probably going to be taking a lot of your time. Don’t go ignoring her now you’ve won her! Or whatever you humans do. Neither of you looks maimed, so it seems a lot gentler than what I grew up with, despite the collar.’ She looked past Janaxia, seeing Skotadi, who was stood awkwardly on the edge of the group, and then crossed her palms over her chest, dipping her head down.

‘Habreth!’

Skotadi perked up, saying something back in a language that Stathis didn’t understand, spiky-sounding, rough and abrasive. She certainly looked like she was enjoying herself though, with Kethys keeping her head bowed.

Stathis gestured Semari over. ‘What are they talking about?’

‘Oh, ancient stuff. Kethys’ lot were, like, cursed or marked or something, so they’re all, y’know, up in the business of the Black Triad. Bit like you and your light-mother-thingie-whatever.’

‘Well, I don’t want her getting too used to it, or getting any ideas!’

Semari stepped between them, saying something in the same language, Kethys making a startled sound, Skotadi bristling, small spikes appearing on her shoulders before fading away. She said something back, Semari speaking over her, before poking her in the forehead. Skotadi growled and muttered, and then Semari handed over a bottle of beer, Skotadi taking it and giving it a delicate sniff, wincing at the odour.

‘Semari!’ Janaxia protested.

‘What? She’s going to try it sooner or later. Better to do it in public, rather than sneaking off and trying it somewhere else.’

Skotadi sipped a little, winced, but then drank more. Kethys was looking amused and appalled, slowly leaning away from Skotadi as the beer was chugged down, before the bottle was emptied and tossed aside.

‘So what are you going to do now, Kethys?’

‘Take a break, I think. Wait ‘till everything clears over. A lot of shit’s just come down, and it’s going to be a mess for a while. Had a lot of offers for my services, but don’t want to risk stirring anything else up. Not like I need the money, either. Might retire for a bit, until I get bored. Maybe you could hire me? Could give you a special rate.’

‘Maybe, not sure if I can afford you though! So, you going off with Kethys, Semari? You’re welcome to come along to Redcastle and Per Tolith if you want.’

‘Nah. Too big and official. Might swing by a few times, but there’s a lot more interesting stuff to go see. Don’t wanna be stuck in uniform somewhere, although it’s cool to hang out with you. Gonna go check out some elven stuff. Maybe Parth’ll give me a title or something? And I’ve not seen Adric for ages, got some urges to work through, know what I’m saying? Gonna see if I can break some beds.’

The air above her rippled, the Blade dropping through, dropping onto her and grabbing hold. They immediately started fighting, rolling around, knocking each other against walls, before she managed to peel him off. He hissed at her, shaking around in her grip.

‘Mind if I take this one as well? Don’t think it’s a good idea for him to be around the others, until he’s maybe, like, a bit better in the head? Kethys is used to this stuff, she can manage.’

‘Hey! What? Are you suggesting I look after him?’

‘Well, yeah. You managed with me, right? You’re always picking up kids and helping them, this is just another one.’

‘He’s an ancient being of power, that has devoured countless souls!’ Kethys’ red eyes glinted from beneath her hood.

‘It’ll be fine. Can’t be worse than the time I set myself on fire, right?’

Kethys launched into a lengthy string of what was probably curse-words, harsh and rough, loud enough to draw attention from those walking past. Then Semari tossed the Blade at them, Kethys barely dodging aside. The Blade looked up at her, tilting their head uncertainly. ‘Gods, why me? Fine. I suppose I’ve been looking for something to do.’ She grabbed their head, purple skin standing out against messy black hair. ‘I guess you’re coming with me. Try to behave and get on with the other kids.’

‘Grrr.’

She squeezed harder. ‘None of that! Be nice. And you’ll have to share as well.’

‘Hmphh.’

‘You sure this is a good idea? You up for it, Kethys?’ Stathis watched as Kethys kept her tight grip, shaking the Blade around by the head, ignoring their growls.

‘For the sins of my ancestors, I suppose. And at least I trust myself more than I trust anyone else to do it! And he probably won’t be as dumb as you were, Semari.’

‘Hey! I wasn’t dumb. I just wanted to find out what would happen.’

‘Sure. Good thing I managed to put you out. Hey, no biting!’ She donked the Blade on the head, making them twitch away, closing their mouth. ‘Might be asking you for resources though. I’ll set up a back-channel, keep an eye out.’

Ooo, how very… clandestine.

‘I’ll let Dorothea know. And try to keep out of trouble.’

‘Trust me, I’ve had enough trouble for my lifetime, never mind a human one! But past time for me to be gone, starting to draw attention, and that rarely ends well for me.’

‘Semari, you heading off as well then?’

‘Yup. I’ll see you around! Janaxia, try not to ride her too hard, she’s got, like, important ruling things to do, can’t have her exhausted for you all the time.’

‘While that is incredibly crude, I will take it as an expression of concern, and, for that, I thank you. For my part, I sincerely hope that, when some rampaging monster kills you, it grants you the mercy of a swift death.’ They glared at each other, before both laughing. ‘Strange to say, it has been, at times, almost pleasant, enduring your company.’

‘Yeah, we’ll have to get shitfaced sometime. But you can go be a sext queen now – just don’t be too distracting! Or weird and eldritch. You’re, like, legit now, you need to be all proper and snooty and stuff.’

‘And you should, perhaps, attempt to elevate yourself somewhat? You are at least in partial loco parentis to the Blade – I would hope that helps you to develop some sense of responsibility?’

‘Nah. I’ll be his cool big sis. Show him how to behave. He’s had enough of being forced to do things, I figure – time for him to poke things a bit, rather than being a weapon. Maybe let him pick his own name?’

Bells started clanging, the sound spreading through the town, Kethys immediately alert. ‘Time to go! It’s been a pleasure, and I wish you happiness. And if you ever see me, probably best to pretend you didn’t!’ She pulled out a metal flask and removed the stopper, thick smoke billowing out, rapidly filling the space. The clamour of armour and shouts could be heard, official-sounding voices calling for everyone to stop. Stathis felt Janaxia press herself close, Stathis moving towards a wall, and hoping the chaos would be over soon.