Chapter 793: Corpses? (2/2)

“It would probably increase the overall mental health though,” Ilea said. “With everyone getting great sex.”

“We will evaluate this and discuss it in the next meeting,” Aki said. “Though specialized models would have to be constructed.”

“I volunteer for testing!” Celene said.

“Of course you would,” Lucia murmured, touching the silver metal. “The shield is inactive now, isn’t it?”

“Yes. There is no perceived threat nearby. This machine is in mana saving mode,” the Executioner said.

“Mana saving mode. That’s incredible. The technology to absorb ambient mana from the surroundings, achieved through enchantment… is it something you will share with the people?” Lucia asked. “It could change the entire school of enchanting.”

“It’s quite a well guarded and complex Taleen creation. For now it will remain within the Accords and its creations,” Aki said.

Lucia frowned. “And here I thought you would help out everyone?” She glanced at the other members of the Accords.

“You misunderstand. We will hire enchanters from all over the Plains and beyond. Even without that, I estimate our production capabilities to be far beyond the combined resources of humanity. The risks of sharing this technology at this time is greater than the possible benefits,” Aki said.

“Says you,” Lucia said.

“If you wish to be hired by the Accords, you merely have to sign an agreement. It is being drafted as we speak. The pay and benefits will be set at a comfortable minimum, increased depending on performance reviews,” Aki said.

“What the fuck kind of dystopian AI did I put into that sphere?” Ilea asked. “Do I have to encourage people to form unions now?”

“Any contracts are based on the principles of the Accords. Those comfortable with their existence are bound to be more creative, and most mundane tasks that require simple repetition can be accomplished by Guardians. We have discussed possible concerns already. It was one of the talking points with the Taleen. You would know about that if you had been present,” Aki said.

Ilea shrugged. “I get it, okay. You just sound like HR.”

“Do I need to know who this HR is, or is it merely another attempt at humor that will satisfy only yourself?” Aki asked.

She smiled, self satisfied.

“It’s another movie, isn’t it?” Kyrian asked.

“I’ll take you there at some point,” Ilea said. If it’s still the same. She realized she had been avoiding the search of a Transporter in Kohr. Guess I don’t really want to find out. She continued her meal, in a considerably less enthusiastic manner. The taste soon distracted her.

Walter smiled. “Realm travel? Are you capable of such a feat?”

“It depends which realm,” Ilea said. “But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. This realm is perfectly fine.”

“Please, just stop,” Claire said, resting her face on her hands. “Technology, sex machines, movies, and realm travel. Can we not just be happy with the entirety of the Guardian army and all of the Taleen facilities?”

Violence! The Baron exclaimed.

“The world is full of possibilities,” Trian said with a smile. “However I agree, spreading ourselves too thin is not a good idea. Not before we have secured our cities to withstand four mark attacks. Awakened four marks.”

“How would you even test that?” Kyrian asked.

Trian glanced at Kyrian and then Ilea. “Well, you two need to train more. Obviously.”

“Right. I would love to do that, if it weren’t for these constant meetings,” Ilea said, giving him a long look. “Contracts here, plans there, treaties over in that corner… next thing I’ll be spying on the Lily or something like that.”

“It’s good you’re a lousy spy,” Kyrian said.

“There is something I’d like to discuss with you two, in regards to possible training,” Aki said. “It should concern you too, Trian.”

“Oh?” Ilea asked.

“Yes. Once we’re back in Iz,” the machine stated.

“Ilea. The Accords left quite an impression. Well done. Syrithis would like to meet you. As soon as possible,” Felicia’s voice came to Ilea’s mind.

“Another meeting… it just never ends,” Ilea murmured as she stood up. Can’t bring the half elf here. “Meet me at the southern gate of Riverwatch. In twenty minutes.”

The lack of additional messages meant some flexibility was required. Ilea and Felicia agreed on ten minute waiting times. If one of them couldn’t make it, they would contact the other again an hour later.

“Did someone contact you?” Kyrian asked.

“Yes. Did the Hunters move to the Descent already?” she asked.

“They are still celebrating,” Aki said. “But Isalthar is informed that the Accords have agreed to welcome them, and that we are ready to discuss the specifics.”

“Good. Claire, how much of a political issue is an Immortal Guard visiting Iz and the Hunters?” Ilea asked.

“Why would an Immortal… oh… you mean her. I don’t see how that would be an issue. They know about the hunters,” she said.

“Thought as much. I’ll talk to her first. Maybe she just wants more information in regards to the declarations you sent out,” she said.

“Go for it. I’m tired,” Claire said.

“I will. Once I’m done negotiating with Walter,” Ilea said and squinted her eyes.

“How much do you want?” he asked, crossing his arms in a confident manner. He squinted his eyes in turn, dark magic making his pupils spread until his entire eyes were black. Magic sparks flickered on his arms.

“You don’t scare me old man,” Ilea whispered. “I want your entire stock.”

“My entire stock?” he said. “I will grant it for your entire assets in Riverwatch.”

“She doesn’t have the authority to trade that without me checking the contract and advising her. I advise against it,” Claire said.

“My advisor advises against it,” Ilea said. “I have a few hundred gold with me. How does two hundred sound like?”

“Deal,” Walter said.

“Perfect,” Ilea answered and summoned the gold, storing every barrel she could see within her dominion inside of her domain. “Claire, I spent most of my gold, can I have some more?”

“Yes, I saw. You really are an incredible negotiator,” the woman said and summoned a small box.

Ilea stored the contents. Exactly two hundred pieces of gold. “How rich are we anyway?”

“I’d prefer not to tell you, lest you offer even more next time around. I assure you the gold is invested according to your wishes. And certainly more efficiently than buying a few barrels of ale for two hundred pieces,” Claire said, though she didn’t sound like she cared much.

“If you’re not more annoyed then I’m actually kind of curious as to the amount we have,” Ilea said with a smile.

Claire gave her a look but didn’t answer the question.

“I’d call that a good deal,” Walter said. “We can buy proper beds now.”

“Finally,” Celene said.

“You could’ve just asked me,” Ilea said.

“I’d rather not rely on the charity of a friend,” Walter said.

“But getting her to pay two hundred gold for some ale is acceptable?” Kyrian asked.

“We’re talking about Ilea. She would’ve probably paid more,” Walter said.

“You know I’m here,” Ilea said.

Kyrian nodded. “You’re right. You’re being considerate if anything.”

“I can hear you,” Ilea added.

“That’s why she has me. And an allowance,” Claire said.

Ilea stood up and stretched, teleporting the Fae onto her shoulder. “I’m done being treated like a child. Come on Violence, we’re going to Riverwatch.”

Violence?

“I don’t know. More than here for sure,” Ilea said before she summoned a gate. “Nice to meet you all. Let me know if you need anything from me. You’ve got the marks.”

“A safe journey to you,” Walter said. “I welcome the business.”

Finally. Some good beds, Ilea thought, giving a slight nod to Celene, the woman raising her mug in an appreciative gesture.

The others said their goodbyes in turn, Ilea stepping through the gate and into the quiet hill near Riverwatch.