Contents
CHAPTER 38: Not the Real Thing
Overview
Mudt celebrates newfound jade proficiency, rationalizes killing Bero, and deepens his shine dependence. Embarrassed by taunting patrons, he recklessly claims he took jade from Kaul Lan, then backtracks. A vigilant bartender phones in the boast, potentially exposing Mudt and linking him to the grave theft amid escalating clan tensions.
Summary
Mudt treats himself at the Pig & Pig after successfully combining Lightness and Steel, savoring the proof that obsessive practice and stolen jade are making him stronger. He steels himself for eventual revenge on Maik Tar and No Peak, justifying Bero’s murder while acknowledging lingering guilt that alcohol steadily dulls.
He reflects on rising shine doses needed to bear Bero’s jade and on how Bero’s bravado once impressed him. When two college women question his youth and authenticity, Mudt’s insecurity flares; he wants the respect due a real Green Bone but knows he lacks the training and bearing.
Prodded by humiliation, Mudt blurts that he won his jade off Kaul Lan’s corpse. The women recoil, and realizing he’s overreached, Mudt laughs it off as a joke, pays, and leaves before making things worse.
After Mudt exits, the sharp-eared bartender, noting the dangerous claim, phones it in from the back room, setting a trail that could expose Mudt’s crimes and tie him to the desecration of Lan’s grave.
Who Appears
- MudtAmbitious, insecure new green; celebrates progress, relies on shine, boasts about Kaul Lan’s jade, drawing dangerous attention.
- Bartender at the Pig & PigNotices Mudt’s reckless claim and discreetly reports it after Mudt leaves.
- Older college womanChallenges Mudt’s authenticity, provoking his boast about Kaul Lan.
- Younger college friendFlirts then recoils after Mudt’s claim, highlighting his social ineptitude.
- BeroDead teen whose stolen jade empowers Mudt; remembered for reckless courage and influence.