Movements Unseen

--???--

It was the first time I've seen the corridors of a Wolani base empty. No voices echoed through the illuminated hallways, no shoes tapped as research and business were conducted. Dead silence.

A base in lockdown was an eerie sight.

“Come.”

“Yes, your eminence.”

“Do you have the results of the investigation?”

“Yes, your eminence.”

“What are they?”

“Complete destruction of twelve walls, with four additional sustaining critical damage and nine cracked. Two doors destroyed. Six Spears confirmed dead, with an additional three severely injured.”

I stepped over a piece of rubble. It was hard to believe all this damage originated from three individuals. Summoning tendrils was a common technique taught to Wolani mages, but Donkor had perfected it. Likewise, only one creature could create scorch marks like the ones against the floor and walls. What I didn't know was the kind of weapon that could penetrate not only our shields, but annihilate twelve walls without leaving evidence. Had I not known better, I would have thought the goddess reached down in anger, yet Donkor reported a hand-held device.

“Have you heard anything from the alchemist?”

“No, your eminence. We have reports of a teleportation signature emerging in the ruins of Korto, but do not know whether it was him.”

“Donkor is fond of those ruins. It is safe to assume he has managed to survive.”

“Yes, your eminence.”

“And the Queen?”

“No further information, but based on the smears of blood, her survival seems unlikely.”

“We would have found her body if that had been the case. Many a fool has underestimated her and paid the price.”

“Yes, your eminence.”

Many a fool. I caught myself massaging my left leg.

The rubble did not reveal further details, so I turned to the blood smears. I would have shared my companion's sentiment if I did not know better. The dark-red splashes and small pool in the corner spoke of a deep wound. It would be difficult to survive, but she's surprised before. Still, letting some rumors spread might do as well.

“Give it to me.”

“Here, your eminence.” I felt something orb-shaped press into my hand. Taking the bottle, I twisted the cap before closing my eyes and pressing two fingers against my brow. It wasn't a complex spell I intended to cast, but I'd waited for this opportunity for so long, I'd be more than a little upset if I were to waste it.

Now… I drew a deep breath. “Absorbeer...”

I felt formed wind blow throughout the room. It lasted under a minute before everything returned to normal, except for the weight in my hand. The orb was no longer transparent, but filled with a thick red liquid.

“Excellent.”

“Excuse me, your eminence?”

“Nothing.” I slid the orb inside my robe. “You may inform your head I have completed my task and will be taking my leave now.”

“Yes, your eminence. Travel safely.” I walked past my accomplice, leaving him to deal with the aftermath. Inside my robe, I could not help but drum my fingers against the orb.