Afterword - Book 2 - Chapter 6 (Patreon)

Chapter 6: Patchworked Fragments

(Original Chapter Title: The Price of Fourteen Words)

Ranthia's world was shattered in the last chapter, and here she begins to work on picking up the pieces.

We learn her theory about why she attained immortality, and I decline—at least at this time—to comment on how accurate or inaccurate her assessment is. (Yes, this is an evil comment that will spark conspiracy theories, my amorality is fine with that.)

Nothing much to say on Ranthia's class up or her stress reactions to everything. Girl needs some sleep, but she instead drives on trying to do what she can. And/or freaks out restlessly in private. Which... I mean, it's kind of hard to blame her, imo?

Of course, this chapter comes with the other sandal dropping—their base lost its sole source of metal. The steel arrows the archers used, the knives Ranthia used, replacement gear, and even the patches on their armor were conjured. By a [Forsworn] dwarf that had a hyper-accelerated decay rate. Because nothing can go easy for them—and being trapped behind enemy lines has consequences.

But here, for the first time, we see Ranthia step up to lead. She even gives her first true speech, and the intent was that it was overall inspiring, a little awkward, and she failed to stick the landing. I think/hope we nailed the right vibe there. Ranthia's not a speech-giver and she tends to somewhat tune out those that are directed in her general direction, but she's adaptive and she genuinely wants to do her best for the other survivors.

Ranthia is determined to survive—and to help her people survive—but the shimagu no doubt have other plans. Who shall prevail?!

And just how much chaos will be wrought in the process?