Galactic High

“Wow, there’s a lot of people!” Jack exclaimed as they came up to the massive crowd that was forming at the entrance to Clan Bharzum’s territory. “I thought you said they were being selective with their guests?”

“They are!” Alora smiled. “Other factions in the city are being represented, and I can only imagine the screening they’re getting! That’s a sizable troop of Red Legion over there, I think the local General-Commander might be here!”

That would make sense, many of the aspirants helped in the defence during the attack, and Luvia has one of the highest places of honour alongside Jack, Svaartal, Svaarti and Sigrin, Chiyo reasoned. Technically Devil’s Daughter has a place of high honour too, but she is not expected to show up. Clan Bharzum does apparently have plans to reward her for her efforts though, so maybe they’ll keep it in escrow.

It was the early afternoon, and the group had taken it easy on finally getting back from their successful heist. They hadn’t said much during the rest of their trip back, with most of the group still feeling nauseous after their rapid ascent. Sephy had sent their newly bestowed cargo drone on a roundabout route to shake any surveillance before setting it on an autopilot course for home, setting the drone to land safely on the grass.

They hadn’t properly gone through their loot yet, though they did have enough sense to restock their fridge with the perishable food and throw a tarp over their new fabricator until they could find a home for it, which was probably going to be one of the ‘garage-like’ rooms at the end of the main building, which was easily accessible from the inside and outside and would serve well as a general ‘workshop’ area. After that, they heated up the microwave pizza and ate a slice each before deciding they weren’t really that hungry, and instead went to bed, but not before giving Dante some pets, the ‘dog’ having stayed up waiting for them to return. They were more than happy to finish off the pizza when they woke up, however, and took it easy before they left in good time to walk to the ceremony in the early afternoon.

Jack could tell that the plaza they were approaching was usually a bustling hub of travel and activity, but for now it had been transformed into a vast sea of mourners as citizens and leaders alike paid their respects to those who had fallen, surrounded by various paparazzi looking for a winning shot.

It also wasn’t just the Red Legion being represented, as a few other delegations were making their presence known with distinctive banners and insignias: The undead Crypt’s with their blue spray-painted symbols and rough-and-tumble attire to honour their members that had fallen to the Klowns stood in contrast to various corporate figures and their bodyguards. Looking ahead, Jack was dismayed to see what he remembered as House Mal’Kar’s symbol proudly displayed, with several drow troops haughtily shoving a path through the crowd. To the left, Jack could also see several robed Stygians waiting patiently at the side of the road.

Hover drones flitted about them, capturing the scene from every angle, their dissonant buzzes and whirrs almost drawing out the sombre, ambient music coming from Clan Bharzum’s complex.

“Quite a display,” Jack heard a familiar voice from the side, and they quickly turned around to see who had crept up on him.

“Hello Mr Ashtail!” Jack spun to greet Lizta, the rest of his group quickly turning to acknowledge him before turning back to their conversations. “Hey Kritch!”

“Oh come now Jack, no need to be so formal with me!” Vetch Ashtail patted Jack on the back with a warm grandfatherly smile. “It’s good to see you again.”

“Even better to see the security here!” Kritch joked, to a playful look of disapproval from his grandfather.

Clan Bharzum’s security was omnipresent. High-tech defence systems, both overt and covert, kept a vigilant eye over the busy crowd. Automated turrets, cloaked in stealth mode, lay ready to act at the slightest hint of violent disruption. Hoduth mech troopers, their outfits a blend of tactical armour and cyber enhancements, patrolled every entrance and key point, communicating silently through neural links, ensuring a seamless security net over the entire event.

“Gentlebeings, may I have your attention please?” A voice that Jack recognised as Ivar Bharzum called out over a loudspeaker. “All invited guests of honour and their approved escorts taking active part in the ceremony, please make your way to the Western gate. All other invited faction dignitaries, to the East gate, and everyone else, including reporters, please remain here at the Central Gate. Thank you.”

“I guess we’re at the Western Gate.” Jack shrugged.

“Us too,” Vetch confirmed. “Kritch has a place of honour too for actively saving lives.”

“Awesome.” Jack smiled politely, as he and the others slowly made their way to the Western gate, though in the back of his mind, he was paranoid something bad would happen. “Let’s get this over with.”

*****

Escorted through the caverns by the Clan Bharzum guards who were more than happy to see them, the grand hall they had all been led to was an architectural masterpiece of massive golden chandeliers dangling from the ceiling, illuminating the room in a warm, soft glow. Tall columns, intricately carved from fine stone, stood like sentinels, guarding the long history of the building. The hall's floor was a vast expanse of polished obsidian, reflecting the lights above in a shimmering dance.

“We’ve got some time, but all the guests that will be receiving honours have seats on the stage at the end,” the Sergeant informed them. “Everyone else that was at the party sits at the front, and their escorts can fill up from there.”

“Thanks!” Nika told them as they left.

Rather exclusionary that they’re only having those that were able to distinguish themselves during the battle on the stage. Chiyo expressed her displeasure. There are those that still helped that should be up there.

“The stage only seats a specific number of people,” Alora told them. “I understand that everyone involved in the attack will be compensated, so perhaps that’s why they’ve been directed at the front, in order for them to still receive honours.”

“We’ll leave you here,” Vetch told them, as his small group of Lizta acknowledged the guard that was ferrying them to their seats. “For what it’s worth, I’m proud of all of you. Feel free to stop by our territory and have some free drinks and snacks on me after this is all over!”

“Thanks, Vetch!” Sephy grinned. “I think they plan to feed us after the ceremony, but I’m always up for double portions when the cost of living sucks.”

“Excuse me, Jack Frost?” A Hoduth guard asked him nervously, and he nodded. “Along with other guests of honour, please follow me and we’ll get you assigned to your allocated seats once everyone else has entered the hall!”

As they walked up to a special alcove along the side of the stage they had been directed to, the hall slowly began to come alive when a huge set of metal hatches groaned open, and various groups of guests were meticulously escorted to their sections. The soft murmurs of the various guests grew louder and more animated as attendees greeted one another, and soon the pitter-patter of feet gave way to a clattering of shoes on the stone floor as the hall quickly began filling up.

Reporters that had been approved by Clan Bharzum were permitted to set up their strange-looking cameras and microphones in specific spots as directed by the Hoduth guards, strategically dotted around the hall in places where they would not be in the way. They engaged in hushed discussions with their crews, adjusting the angles of their cameras and readying themselves to capture every moment of the memorial ceremony. Drone cameras floated above, their quiet hum blending into the background noise, their lenses zeroing in on the various notable attendees, and Jack had to quickly check his gun to make sure it could be brought to bear at a moment’s notice. He really didn’t want this to go badly, and his paranoia wasn’t helped by many guests pointing at him, and several drones hovered around him in an orbit of discomfort as he walked up the stairs onto the stage.

However, as many of the guests sat down, and he and the others were separated from one another as they were escorted to their own seats in full view of the crowd, there was still an air of anticipation, and certain guests of honour had yet to arrive. Apparently they wanted to make an entrance, which would good for the cameras.

Though for some of the guests that followed, ‘honour’ was not a word Jack would use…

“Representing the Red Legion, General-Commander Opathu!” a herald called out, as a particularly beefy-looking reptilian warrior strode into the room, expecting all eyes to be on him. He had a harsh but stoic look to him in his resplendent red armour, but he wasn’t the one Jack was focused on…

“Kull,” he heard Nika growl from behind him.

It was true. Master Kull was flanking the General-Commander on one side, with a white-scaled Nirah he hadn’t seen before on the other, looking very different to the two Nirah he already knew. Several elite troops in red armour were close behind for a threatening visage. For his part, Kull was staring straight ahead with a humoured expression.

“Hey Jack!” Luvia bounded up to them excitedly, looking very beautiful with her polished crimson scales, manicured hair and black dress. “Hello everyone, how have you all been?”

“Hey Luvia.” Sephy grinned mischievously as she quickly sidled up alongside Jack, blocking the dragon as the Skritta brought her arm around the human, pulling him in tight for a side-hug. “It’s nice to see you!”

“Umm..hi Luvia!” Jack nervously greeted the dragon, who was unable to get close to him, though not for lack of trying, his voice fighting not to go up an octave as Sephy pressed herself into him. “You look nice!”

“Thanks Jack!” Luvia smiled, as Sephy practically squeezed him in jealousy. “Looks like you’ll be sitting next to me on stage! We must catch up later…”

“Representing House Mal’Kar of the Drow Concordance!” The herald bellowed again. “Matriarch Izadora Mal’Kar!”

Presenting an aura of nobility and power, the drow of House Mal’Kar marched forward, not acknowledging the crowd until they reached their seats, where one of the Drow, a female in black spiked plate with a large sword gave the Red Legion contingent a smile that radiated mockery.

Who else are we expecting? Chiyo asked the gathered ‘Honour List’.

“I know Corvin Enterprises wanted to send a representative, but were denied.” Luvia shrugged. “They were allowed to send reporters, however.”

“Commander Cocaine also got denied.” Kritch chuckled. “Damn shame, they really humiliated the Drow the other night! That was so funny! I’d love to see them go for Round 2!”

“I know a few unknown individuals tried to get in,” a new voice called out, as Sigrin Bharzum walked up to them. “That’s why it’s taken a while to get through, but everything should be fine now. Ivar thinks it’s from those Emerald King lot…”

“Oh no…” Alora gasped. “You don’t think…”

“They were turned away at the door, and if they return we’ll open fire.” Sigrin nodded. “We’re not taking any chances. I’m warning you as a courtesy, because I fully expect this to be safe. We’ve pulled out all stops for this, Gloom Paths are clear and Security Level is Black. Anyone that shouldn’t be here gets killed on sight.”

“Damn,” Jack mumbled.

“Anyway, I think most of us are here, the two Nirah siblings are on their way and we have a few more honourees yet to arrive. In practice this won’t take too long, we’ll be rewarding and compensating you properly behind closed doors, but this is a matter of honour for us, and most of all to remember those that cannot be with us today.”

Sigrin then smiled as she saw more people arrive. “But fortunately, that number is much smaller than it could have been, thanks to all of you.”

“Everyone is accounted for now, we’re just getting the last group sorted,” one of the guards told Sigrin as a new group of people joined them.

Including someone Jack really didn’t expect to see.

“WHAT?!” the human exclaimed, as the others in his group gave similar expressions of shock.

“Whoa!” Killer Kush calmly groaned as was gently guided by one of the guards to where he was meant to be. “Oh, hey Jack!” He nonchalantly waved at Jack, who was staring at him flabbergasted.

“Killer Kush, how are you alive? I saw you die! Again!” Jack asked without thinking, as Kush just looked at him like he wasn’t quite there. “I even closed your eyes and said some words for you!”

……

“It was very moving!” Jack sighed, before putting out his hand in respect. “I’m glad you’re still around.”

“Thanks Jack.” Killer Kush nodded, clasping Jack’s arm in his for a handshake, in a rare moment of lucidity. “I…kinda remember now. Clan Bharzum was able to recover me and bring me back. I have, like, a thingy that can usually help preserve me after something bad, and I have a contract with CorvWagon that lets their healers know when I’ve been downed, but it has limited reach. Fucking sucks I couldn’t take down Dr Grine, they told me he got away. I got some good hits on him at least!”

“You did what you could, and he’s much tougher than he looks.” Jack nodded. “I know he has a bounty, but I wouldn’t even know where to start looking. There’s a lot of powerful people on the hunt though, you could probably get in on that if you wanted.”

“Heh, maybe bro. Bounty work ain’t paying much right now, so I’m up for anything.” Kush shrugged, looking up at Jack with a desperate gaze. “I haven’t even lit a blunt for, like, 2 hours!”

“Umm…” Jack began. “Why not put your skills into helping the city fix itself? There’s people that need help and could give you a kickback? You could work for a higher cause or-”

“Higher cause?” Killer Kush’s expression got serious for a moment as he stared at Jack. “Jack. This is very very important. How ‘High’ are we talking exactly?”

“How high?” Jack asked, groaning internally as he realised what the stoned frog meant. “That’s…that’s up to you I guess...”

“Hmmm…I’m gonna do a few lines of coke and think about it. Thanks Jack!” Kush grinned as a guard gently guided the Dresquox back into place.

“Last group,” the guards called before looking to Sigrin. “Nearly ready, Elder Torvuld will bring you up when it’s time. Good luck!”

“Thanks, you too!” The Provisional Elder smiled, before noticing who was arriving. “Ah! Svaartal, good to see you, and Svaarti, I was glad to hear of your recent recovery!”

Everyone snapped their heads around at that, as Sigrin marched over to greet the two Nirah slinking over to them, warmly greeting the two with open arms. Svaartal was clearly feeling as exposed as Jack was, looking around on high alert for any threats, while supporting his frail sister who was clearly quite tired from the exertion, but who still smiled.

“Yes, I’m a bit worse for wear but I’m strong enough for this,” Svaarti nervously told them all as she leaned on her staff, before looking around. “Is Vanya here?”

“She’s among the crowd.” Alora smiled warmly at the Nirah. “There will be time to meet up afterwards I’m sure.”

“Certainly will, there’s gonna be a reception afterwards away from the media,” Sigrin pointed out, patting Svaarti on the shoulder.

Suddenly, some music played over the sound system in the hall, causing conversations to begin to die out, as an older Hoduth in resplendent armour walked up to them, flanked by several guards. “Greetings friends, if you would follow me, the ceremony is about to begin…”

*****

As the solemn music reached a crescendo, all eyes turned to the raised platform where Elder Torvuld stood to address the crowd. Though age had etched harsh, deep lines onto their face, the Elder's posture remained taut, and their eyes remained sharp. Their voice was deep and resonant as they spoke.

"Greetings, Gentlebeings. Today, we stand united, not merely in the face of adversity facing our home, but to come together, and honour those who gave their lives in order for our city to keep on going. When the Klowns came in force, it was not noble titles, riches or territory that defined us during that vicious attack, but the actions we took to look true evil in the eye, and face it!”

The hall was now silent as the Elder spoke, the music having faded away, not even the clicks of the drones or cameras interrupting the hallowed scene. "As we commemorate this moment," the Elder continued, "I want to acknowledge those who exemplified courage. Those whose bravery illuminated the darkest moments. Our heroes, who you all see behind me, and at the front of the hall."

The Elder allowed a moment of silence to allow that moment to sink in.

“While everyone I have honoured have tales of bravery to tell, six heroes in particular risked their lives at the greatest of peril, five of whom you see before me.” He motioned to Jack, Luvia, Sigrin, Svaarti and Svaartal. “The sixth, Devil’s Daughter, operates under a veil of obfuscation, however we honour her for her efforts nonetheless.”

“First, I honour my Granddaughter, Sigrin. When my son, Elder Torvin Bharzum fell in the battle to buy our guests time to escape, it was Sigrin that took charge of the defence until help could arrive. She demonstrated leadership and courage during that time, and it is my honour to elevate her to full Elder.”

Sigrin subtly released a gasp of breath she didn’t realise she had been holding at that. A bonafide Elder? She didn’t know whether to be happy at the honour, or sad at feeling old!

“I now honour Luviannestixxx, proud dragon of the Red Legion who scorched the Klowns in their infiltration tunnels, and took to the skies to rain fire on our foes! Svaarti, who almost at the cost of her life cast a mighty barrier to repel the Klowns and protect the wounded, before casting a portal to allow them to escape. Devil’s Daughter who struck out at the Klowns from the shadows and disrupted their offensive. Svaartal, who carved his way through scores of Klowns in order to rescue those that were captured, including my Granddaughter Greta, before slaying as many Klowns as could in defence of Outpost Khundohr.”

“And Jack Frost. Fighting alone through the tunnels, he was able to rescue many people from the Klown horde and reach the security nexus, turning the tide of the battle by manually overriding our disabled active defences. He then confronted the true mastermind behind the attack, Dr Reyazz Grine, almost slaying him, and obtained valuable intelligence we would otherwise not have acquired. For the bravery these five heroes have demonstrated, I grant the highest honour I can, with the entire Ring as my witness….”

“I name you all Blood-kin of Clan Bharzum.”

There were several whispers within the crowd at that, and Jack must have visibly looked slightly confused, because Elder Torvuld subtly raised his hand to put him at ease for now. Jack would need to ask what that was about later.

The Elder returned to the centre of the platform, looking out at the sea of faces once more. "May we always remember the sacrifices made, and may we move forward with the knowledge that together, we can overcome any adversity that may challenge us. Honour those that fell in the face of evil, and carry their spirits with you always. Thank you."

As the applause thundered throughout the hall, there was a palpable sense of unity, at least for a brief moment. In a way it gave Jack hope that things could get better, and that societies could come together, even if it was bound by mutual hatred of the Klowns that attacked their city indiscriminately. As the cameras of drones and reporters clicked and Jack looked at the various beings below who were applauding them all, one suddenly stood out. An ordinary average-looking Squarri was staring right at him from the crowd. Light brown feathers, conservative clothes, no distinguishing features. Jack didn’t know what it was about the person that unnerved him so, but his gut told him it was not good. The being stared at him for several moments in interest, before giving him an unmistakable cruel smile and a slight tilt of his head, acknowledging him before in the next moment they were gone. It was like Jack had simply lost focus of them for a brief moment, only for them to vanish.

Try as he might, he couldn’t find them again in the crowd. Was he imagining this? Was he seeing things? Was he being paranoid?

“Sigrin,” Jack whispered to the Hoduth next to him. “Got a bad feeling about someone in the crowd. Might be nothing though, a Squarri looking a little weird at me in the section over there.”

“I’ll call it in, we’re done here so I’ll tell the guards to keep a lookout.” The Elder confirmed, not even questioning it. “Everyone coming to the reception has been fully screened, and guard presence is high.

“Thanks,” Jack whispered back, as the crowds began to disperse…

*****

“How are you feeling?” Svaartal asked his sister as they entered a new room with refreshments the guards had guided them all to. “Do you need to sit down?”

“I’m well enough,” Svaarti weakly hissed back. “I promised Vanya I’d meet up with her afterwards and help her with an episode of her podcast!”

“I should probably try and convince you that resting would be better, but I know that probably won’t work.” Svaartal chuckled. “Just don’t try and teleport anyone else back with you when you come home. We still have enough wards to destroy anyone that teleports in uninvited. Commander Cocaine’s forces learned that the hard way.”

“Oh, good,” Svaarti sighed with relief as she looked around, spotting Nya on her own holding a drink. “I’m going to mingle for a bit and see who else is here.”

“As you wish, have fun!” Svaartal smiled, before turning back to talk to Soren.

As the Nirah slithered up to Nya, the Stygian jumped slightly at the movement, before relaxing slightly on seeing who it was. “Svaarti, I’m glad you’re awake, how are you feeling?” Nya tentatively asked.

“I was going to ask you the same question!” Svaarti smiled. “I am better, thank you. I’ve missed out on a lot and I can barely remember what happened! How have you been?”

“I woke up a few days after the attack.” Nya smiled warmly as she slowly sipped her wine. “My tribe came to collect me after assisting Clan Bharzum in the recovery efforts. Under their care I was able to wake up and heal my physical injuries, but my astral strands will take longer to repair.”

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Svaartai told the Stygian, sympathetically placing a hand on Nya’s shoulder. “I have a similar problem, but my time in a coma actually went a long way to help heal mine. I’ve found in the past that spending time meditating at a powerful enough ley line convergence point can help.”

“Ley lines?” Nya asked, perking up at the idea. “I wasn’t aware of such points around Naganai that aren’t claimed or heavily contested?”

“Yes!” Svaarti nodded enthusiastically. “House Mal’Kar is on a very good place and I have my own Meditation Chamber that’s helped, but before, Svaartal and I used to use a spot on the edge of the Ghostlight Forest to the south of the city.”

“Really?” Nya asked, surprised, and secretly very excited at the idea. Even Grandmaster Ilvella didn’t know of many good spots when he originally searched for a location to call home. “Forgive me for prying but…”

“Of course! I’ll give you my new commcode and let you know!” Svaarti beamed. “But…you are also welcome at the House Mal’Kar compound as my guest. I am allowed to do that, but it might not be…”

“That’s quite alright, I like discovering secrets!” Nya smirked, as she felt a familiar presence approach from behind.”

“Nya! There you are!” Grandmaster Ilvella exclaimed with a grandfatherly tone. “Ah! And you must be Svaarti! Nya’s told me much about you!”

“She has?” Svaarti asked, slightly confused, as Nya respectfully moved to the side, allowing the Grandmaster to speak to the Nirah, though nervous and unsure of what he was planning.

“Indeed!” Ilvella smiled kindly. “A fellow practitioner of the arcane arts, and a most capable one so I’ve heard! A pleasure to meet you dear!” He smiled as he shook her hand. “What you did that night was nothing short of outstanding work, even with a powerful artefact like that Golden Staff of yours! I’ll admit I am curious how a young lady your age came to possess such a relic?”

“Thank you.” Svaarti smiled politely. “According to my brother, my staff belonged to our late mother. I don’t have any memories of her, but I am honoured to wield it in her name and hope to do her proud!”

“I am sorry to hear of her loss, and that you cannot remember her.” Ilvella bowed his head. “But I am sure she would be proud of the brave young woman her daughter has become.”

“That is very kind.” Svaarti smiled. “All I know is that she died in the Demonfire War. My brother has more memories of her than I do. He is my elder by many years, though we are in the same year in school. Nirah are a very long-lived species after all, so it makes sense.”

“Of course.” Ilvella nodded respectfully. “Ah! Don’t let me take up any more of your time, I can see your companions over there looking concerned.”

“Hmm?” Svaarti looked around to see Soren and Svaartal looking her way, but as she turned to politely bid her farewells to the Stygians, she could see that both of them had already departed. Shrugging, she went to browse the foods Clan Bharzum had on offer, and was happy to talk to those that wanted to speak to one of the ‘heroes’ of the Klown attack who saw her as more approachable, before Svaartal eventually reunited with her.

“Careful not to let your new fame go to your head!” Svaartal teased.

“I won’t.” Svaarti giggled before looking worried towards the entrance of the room, as the Red Legion contingent entered. “Oh no, you don’t think we’ll have problems with them, do you?”

“I wouldn’t worry, dear.” Soren purred from behind her as he gently patted her shoulder and drew close. “This is Neutral Ground, and Clan Bharzum have made it clear what happens to those that break it…”

“Besides, the Red Legion is no match for our power,” Izadora added, a little too loudly.

“Is that so?” a voice from the Red Legion contingent growled, as General-Commander Opathu strode over in a picture of calm rage, followed by his entourage. “Would this be the same mighty House Mal’Kar that faltered against Commander Cocaine?”

“We sent him running,” Kravel snarled, as the Nirah officer to the side of General Opathu subtly moved to mark his approach. “I wonder what could have caused him to so foolishly target us?”

“He no doubt saw weakness and moved to exploit it,” Luviannestixxx growled. “When you recruit the discardings of others you can expect nothing to show for it.”

“Hardly,” Ull sneered. “House Mal’Kar has brought out their true strength.”

“Ull!” Izadora warned her brother to show restraint, but Ull ignored her.

“There is only one Master Race,” Ull chuckled menacingly, staring down the Red Legion officers. “Your time is almost done, but the Drow will always reign supreme!”

“And those of other species that fight with you?” Ull snapped around to stare at the pale Nirah Colonel with the magical glave, who stared back, unblinking with a sly, amused smile. Unlike his two compatriots, this new individual was completely at ease, and did not show any visible signs of anger. “Was a drow present on that stage receiving honours, or did my eyesight deceive me?”

“The Klowns did not attack us because even the Killer Klown can recognise a greater threat,” Vaetrix jeered. “Had they tried, I would have slain the Killer Klown myself.”

“A bold claim from blueblood filth.” Kull chuckled, summoning his hammer to rest his chin on. “I am a veteran of hundreds of battles fought in the name of the legion. I fought in the Zharakizan campaign, and no matter how many drow tried to prove themselves superior, they all died the same way. Screaming in pain as I ripped them apart! Oh yes Captain, how they screamed!” The mighty juggernaut taunted, before his gaze turned looking dangerously at all of them. The moment Kull’s gaze looked towards him, Svaartal summoned the Staff of Devil’s Daughter to point right at his face, causing the guards to shout out.

“Our business remains unconcluded, Kull,” the Nirah hissed. “House Mal’Kar offers a mighty sum for the head of Vashiel, significantly more if he is brought to me alive. Now I am Blood-Kin, Clan Bharzum are also now on the hunt for my father, but I have no intention of allowing anyone else the chance of getting him. I’m not hiding or running. I will find him, and I shall kill him, along with all that aid him!”

“Brave of you for what you did, boy.” Kull chuckled grimly. “But it won’t end the way you think...”

“That’s enough!” Elder Sigrin snapped at all of them. “I won’t have you arguing over the Truffled Fungal Appetisers. Don’t you know there are enough for everybody?”

A long silence took the room, before finally General-Commander Opathu allowed himself a slight chuckle.

“Are you sure, Lady Bharzum?” He rumbled with amusement. “They are most delectable.”

“Indeed,” Vaetrix retorted with a false smile of civility. “We must order some for our House.”

“We shall arrange something,” Sigrin allowed, and the guards guided the two feuding parties away from one another.

In the corner of the room, Grandmaster Ilvella furrowed his brows. The conversation with Svaarti had been nothing short of a delight, and only his iron-clad discipline had kept him from losing his composure. It reminded him of those first days of meeting Svaarvali, and Svaarti was every part her daughter.

But her son? By the gods her son…

That he had inherited his mother’s skill was without question. But his father? Ilvella had met Vashiel only a few times before and had found him to have been a good man, a loving husband, and a doting father.

Just what was going on here?

*****

After that tense standoff, the reception had been a mostly dull affair, with the exception of Dante and Carrow barking and cawing at one another until they were forcefully separated by their respective masters and kept that way. Apart from that, Jack and his friends ate some strange food and hobnobbed with a few influential figures, though they naturally stayed away from Master Kull and the Drow, with at least one member of the group staying with Jack to ensure he didn’t shoot any of them ‘by accident’. It was a short affair, and they had all committed to leaving in good time with their friends to enjoy the rest of the day, but first, they had to pick up their rewards and compensation. Out of their group, Jack was the only one who hadn’t gotten his rewards yet, as he had a special order that Ivar was claiming from the vault. However, considering who was currently receiving their rewards, he didn’t mind the wait…

“Alright Mr Kush, I think you’ll like this…” The bemused guard chuckled as with great reverence he handed Killer Kush what looked like a pair of submachine-guns.

“Broooooooo!” Killer Kush grinned. “What do they do?”

“They…um….shoot plasma rounds like any other SMG. These ones are efficient enough to shoot more rounds before overheating at the cost of accuracy,” the guard told him. “Very reliable and well forged by Clan Bharzum, we hope you put them to good use. We also have this…”

The guard pulled out a small briefcase and turned it around before opening it to give Killer Kush a look. Jack couldn’t see what was in it from his angle, but the bright green glow from within gave Killer Kush the happiest look he had ever seen.

“Holy shit! Let’s goooooooooooo!” The Dresqox celebrated.

“YOU!” A voice yelled, as from the Red Legion contingent, Jack saw a familiar, angry reptilian marching up. He had not seen Master Kull since the end of the previous week when he got suspended from teaching, and certainly did not expect to see him here as he made a beeline for Killer Kush. “I KNOW YOU WERE THE ONE TO TAKE A SHIT IN MY OFFICE!”

The Dresqox lazily turned around with the wide, calm smile of a true pothead and gave Master Kull a casual look up and down as the crowd turned to see the commotion.

“Suck my balls motherfucker!” Killer Kush grinned wide at the hulking brute.

Kull roared, summoning his hammer, as with a flurry Killer Kush drew his twin blades.

“That’s enough!” Sigrin Bharzum yelled at the top of her voice. “This is Neutral Ground! Does the Red Legion refuse to honour its word?”

“Our word is our bond,” Kull growled as he stomped off, while Killer Kush sheathed his blades and lit a spliff like nothing had happened.

“Alright, thanks for coming Mr Kush, safe travels!” Sigrin chucked as she somewhat abruptly led the Dresqox out the door.

“Jack, you want to come with me?” Ivar called from the door. “Got you all set up, but I figured since you’re not from around here I could explain stuff for you.”

“Sure!” Jack shrugged, before leading the group to follow him. They didn’t go far, only heading down the end of the corridor before Ivar ushered him into a side room, allowing Alora, Nika, Sephy, Chiyo and Dante to enter with him.

“Alright Jack.” Ivar grinned. “Clan Bharzum officially thanks you for doing all you could to help fight back against the Klowns, save innocent lives, and for your attempts to catch the bastard that made sure it could happen. Clan Bharzum has officially called a Blood Hunt on Dr Grine, so as a matter of honour we will be hunting him or assisting anyone else for as long as it takes until he is confirmed to be permanently dead.”

“Fair enough.” Jack nodded, before remembering something. “That reminds me…”

“What is ‘Blood-Kin’?” Ivar grinned. “Elder Torvuld asked me to fill you in. You are basically honorary and honourable members of the Clan, with all the benefits that entails. Any help the Clan can reasonably provide, the Clan will give, no matter where you are, as long as we’re around. It’s up to you if you accept it, we don’t expect anything of you in return. Any direct descendants you have will be afforded the same honour.”

“Thank you…” Jack began, not knowing what to say.

“Heh, don’t mention it! You wouldn’t believe the things my little cousins in your class were saying when the news came down! Anyways, first things first, since we know you guys do mercenary work, part of our reward for you guys is giving you some decent body armour you can use in the field. Alora’s already given me your sizes and fighting styles so we’re gonna send that to you once put together.”

“Cool!” Sephy exclaimed. “Saves just wearing a battleskin to a firefight!”

“Quite.” Ivar nodded, looking a little worried at that point. “Anyway, I’ve got a few other things for you, Jack. Come have a look, we’ve fixed your gauntlet-bracer things.”

“Awesome!” Jack said in relief. “Been feeling a little exposed without my shield!”

“And the flamethrower too I’ll bet!” Ivar grinned. “And if you think that’s good, just wait and see what else you’re getting!”

You’ve added additional functions? Chiyo asked with curiosity. Like what?

“Sort of. I took the liberty of providing a manual!” Ivar smirked. “It’ll come to you naturally as you attune to it, but our Runforgers basically decided it’d be easier to rebuild these from scratch, copy over the previous enchantments you had and make them better than just fixing up your old ones. As you’ve noticed, the single gauntlet you had before now comes as a pair so you can use either hand for what you want to do. And since you’re Blood-Kin, you have everything we could possibly add. As far as unarmed combat goes these can extend over your striking digits to pack an extra punch!”

“Like brass-knuckles?” Jack asked, and Ivar shrugged, not knowing what those were.

“Probably. Also if you’re unarmed and you need to go lethal, it can also give you a punch-dagger, hidden-blade or just a knife depending on what you want. Like I said, the Clan Runecrafters gave you everything, so hopefully you won’t end up with a cooking knife or whatever by accident.” Ivar grinned.

“Now that leads me onto the best bit - these gauntlets can help you out with handiwork jobs, sorta like guiding you about what a problem might be and how you can fix it. It’s not gonna give you a degree in astrophysics or whatever, but I’m sure you’ll find a use for it. Plus, since you’re Blood-Kin, you have access to our equipment and tools which you can summon once you know what you need for a job. Nothing you ‘pull’ will stick around for long, since the Clan Matrons get pissy when you lose stuff, but it’ll let you keep what you need for as long as you actually need it!”

“Great, sounds like I’m gonna be drafted for all the household chores!” Jack sighed.

Sounds like it! Chiyo grinned, patting him on the shoulder.

“Our Runeforgers also added some other features as well, but you can read the manual for those!” Ivar shrugged. “I highly recommend the Grapple! We also have this!”

“Holy shit!” Nika exclaimed, as Ivar plonked a plasma rifle on the table.

“Hot off the forges, we got you a long gun too!” Ivar chuckled. “We customised it for your build as well, not many other species could effectively handle a weapon like this! Efficient, accurate burst-fire and shoots heavier rounds for increased damage and penetration. Also it has an attached grenade launcher!”

“WAIT, WHAT THE SHIT!?!?” Jack exclaimed with a look of amazement.

“Yup, again, it’s in the manual with what it’s compatible with.” Ivar chuckled, pleased to see the enthusiasm. “Apart from that, we’re giving you some money, some food, some stocks and shares in various Clan Bharzum holdings, which are being managed by one of our brokers… and this.”

He opened his palm reverently. “On behalf of Clan Bharzum, I gift you the Ring of the Berserker.”

“Thank you, I’m honoured,” Jack told Ivar truthfully, choosing to wear it on his right hand, surprised to find it comfortable on his ring finger, and easy to put on and take off provided he wanted to, likely having some kind of magic involved. He felt some kind of strange feeling of satisfaction from the ring as he kept it on, like it somehow accepted him as its wearer.

“It’s perfect for you. It’ll passively give you some resistances to magical attacks, plus boost your natural abilities in combat, especially when you get into a deep rage state,” Ivar told him. “Aside from that we don’t know much about it, other than it’s not cursed and it’s a potent artefact that’ll work well with you. Again, the rest of what we know is in the manual, including basic history and such, but I hope it gives you the edge if you ever encounter that bastard Grine again. Anyway, that’s it for what we have for you, though you and any companions you wish to bring are welcome to our feasts at any time! We’ll stay in touch!”

“Thanks, Ivar.” Jack smiled with gratitude as he shook the man’s hand.

“No problem! You be good! And I hope that food lasts to keep your household fed until things get back to normal!” Ivar told him as they departed.

“Alright, let’s head home!” Alora announced to the others. “Svaarti’s visiting too, temporarily. Time to relax, unwind, and then we have a long-awaited interview!”

How bad could it be? Asked Chiyo.