Kazin's Quest: Book I of the Dragon Mage Trilogy

Kazin's

Quest

Book I

of

The Dragon Mage Trilogy

Carey Scheppner

AuthorHouse™

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© 2013 Carey Scheppner. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or

transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse   04/23/2022

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4101-9 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4100-2 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4099-9 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2013906741

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publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Edited in collaboration with Paul

Marostica, inventor of Matter Theory, a

comprehensive physics theory designed to

replace all existing physics theories.

Sketches donated by Casey Hoover

Table of Contents

Part 1 The Test

Part 2 Honour And Freedom

Part 3 The Quest Begins

Part 4 Item Of Extreme Rarity

Part 5 Truth In The Past

Part 6 The Eight Heroes

Part 7 The Election Battle

Part 8 The Living Versus The Dead

Part 1

The Test

Chapter 1

K azin awoke refreshed and ready for the day, and headed downstairs, expecting to eat a light breakfast. The kitchen window faced east and the morning sunlight fell across the kitchen, stretching to the wall on the other side of the room. Kazin’s mother, Carla, reached across the sink and opened the window, allowing the fresh morning air to circulate into the room. The smell of the fresh air, combined with the smell of the scrambled eggs on the table, immediately increased Kazin’s appetite. Hungrily, he started on his breakfast, barely mumbling Good morning, mom, between mouthfuls. Carla turned to her son with a smile. She could not take offense at the quickly mumbled ‘good morning’ she had received, because she knew he found her cooking too good to resist. He was much like his father in this way. She regarded him more closely in the morning sunlight. At nineteen, he was youthful in appearance, with shoulder length blonde hair, slightly lighter than her own. His calm demeanour, a trait of his father’s, gave him a mature look.

Being only of medium height, Kazin had had to contend with an endless plague of bullies during his school years. He had usually managed to avoid confrontations, and had even found a friend who had stuck up for him.

Sherman, a big, overgrown boy, who stood a head taller than everyone else in the class, had been having difficulties with his studies. Kazin had come to his aid, explaining things in detail so that the big boy had been able to keep up. And Sherman, who had never liked bullies or what they did, had often chased Kazin’s bullies off before any damage was done. Although it had been good for Kazin to have such a friend, Carla also wryly remembered the trouble the boys had often gotten into when they were in town, playing pranks on the shop owners, and upsetting the natural flow of business wherever they went.

Well, Carla sighed, that was then, and this is now. Sherman had left home nearly two years ago to explore the world, and Kazin had entered the school of black mages. Although he had made some new friends there, he had at first been a little sad at losing his friend, Sherman. Carla initially wondered about the choice her son had made, but her fears had been laid to rest when she saw how adept he was at magic. He would study hard, practicing his spells whenever he could. Sometimes now, he would magically light the fire in the hearth on cold evenings. Sometimes he would even levitate heavy items that Carla couldn’t move by herself. On special occasions, he even created fireworks, until one day a spell backfired, and the laundry on the clothesline went up in flames. She had reprimanded him for that, putting an end to her own birthday celebrations that evening, but all in all, she was proud of his accomplishments at such a young age.

Carla watched as her son swallowed his last mouthful, putting his fork down on his empty plate. That boy eats too fast, Carla thought, but instead she said, What are you up to today, Kazin?

I think I’ll go over to see Max and help him with his studies, said Kazin.

What about your own studies? You only have two weeks before the big test.

I know, mom, but today is such a nice day, and I’ve been studying so hard the last couple of weeks that my eyes are going to fall out of my head if I study anymore.

Carla had been wondering the same thing herself throughout the last few weeks, bringing dinner to his room when he was so engrossed in his studies that he never noticed it was dinnertime. Okay, but I expect you back by dinnertime. And invite Max over too.

Thanks, mom. Kazin quickly grabbed his light spring coat, knowing it was still only halfway through spring and the wind was cool. As he ran toward the fence, he noticed his father in the yard and shouted a greeting as he leaped over the fence, not even bothering to go around to the gate, which stood wide open.

His father, Calin, waved to him, watching his son run down the lane to his friend’s house.

Kazin slowed to a walk, staying to the center of the lane where it was not as muddy from the spring runoff. Soon he came to be passing Sherman’s parents’ place. Sam Takar, Sherman’s father, was by the gate repairing damaged portions of fence, a result of the severe frost that spring. He looked up and saw Kazin coming down the lane. Kazin still found it hard to believe that this short balding man could have fathered such a huge son, but then, he supposed, nature could be funny sometimes. Hi, Mr. Takar.

Hello, Kazin. Long time no see!

I’ve been studying quite hard the last few weeks. Noticing the damaged fence, Kazin added, You should have called on me to give you a hand.

That’s okay, Kazin, said Takar. I’ve got a young man to give me a hand this year. He’s a good worker, even though he likes to sleep late. He needed the work, and I needed his help, so we made an arrangement, and he does his share. I wish Sherman were here though. He has the strength of an ox.

Kazin chuckled. You’re telling me! By the way, you haven’t heard from him lately, have you?

As a matter of fact, he wrote two days ago. He says he’ll be in the area in a week or so, and wants to stop by for a visit. I’ll let you know as soon as he arrives.

That’d be great, said Kazin. I haven’t seen him in nearly two years!

I know, said Takar. He’s been so busy escorting merchant shipments that he hasn’t had a moment of rest. He’s been sending us money from time to time, but Ezra wants him to send himself home instead. Takar laughed. You know, she always complained he was eating us out of house and home, and now she wants to make him a huge feast!

Kazin joined in the laughter, and added, It’s a wonder he even manages to make money with his huge appetite.

I’d wager his size alone would make even the wealthiest merchant hire his hide for protection, Takar guffawed.

You’re probably right, said Kazin.

Well, if you don’t mind, Kazin, I’d better go see if the new lad’s up yet. We’ve got a fence to mend.

Then take care, Mr. Takar, and remember to let me know as soon as Sherman’s in town. And with that, Kazin resumed walking to his friend’s house.

Will do, said Takar, who turned and strode back up the walkway.

Max came to the doorway and said, Can I help you?

Very funny, said Kazin wryly.

Max smiled and stepped outside. I started to open my spell book, but I couldn’t resist the urge to go outside and get some fresh air.

Kazin grinned. Great minds think alike.

You too, huh?

Max was a short, dark haired youth, with a slightly heavier build than Kazin. His life on the farm had made him seem rugged on the outside, but inwardly he was always ready for fun.

What do you think the test will be like? asked Max as they passed his father’s barn on the way out.

All I know is that it’s very hard, said Kazin.

Too bad they only allow everyone one chance to do it, said Max. I wouldn’t mind knowing what I was headed into.

I have a feeling that that’s a part of the test.

Well, I’m going to do everything I’ve been trained to, and be as prepared as I can for whatever they throw at us, stated Max.

Me likewise, said Kazin. Just keep your concentration, Max. That’s your weak point.

I know. Just the same, I hope there are a lot of freezing spells required. I’m better than anybody else at those.

Kazin looked at his friend with envy. How do you do it? I have to use all my concentration to cast an ice spell, and when you do it, you look like you’re not even trying!

Max shrugged. I have to work a lot harder than you at a fire or bolt spell.

That’s true, said Kazin. I guess everyone has their strong and weak points.

A half hour later the boys had nearly reached town. Marral was a small port town on the east side of Skull lake, with a sister town of Warral on the west.

Marral was somewhat smaller than Warral, simply because it was farther away from any major roads or cities. Despite its size, the town’s port was often busy when goods were being transported to and from Sorcerer’s Isle. There was also plenty of fresh produce, milk and meat being shipped downriver into the capital city of Arral and beyond, and even as far south as the elven lands. Elves, in particular, paid top price for milk, and were sorely upset if the milk spoiled before it reached them.

Kazin pointed to the landing where a couple of ships were anchored. The water’s already open, and the ships are preparing to load goods. It looks like you’ll be back to work soon, Max.

Not if I pass the test, Kazin.

Oh yeah, I forgot, said Kazin sheepishly. While apprenticing as a mage, Max had been assigned by the tower to work in the shipyards, and he had been working there for the past two years. He had risen to the highest level of the freezing department, and was responsible for the cooling of goods which were to be shipped down the river. The cooling was necessary to keep the goods fresh for the duration of the journey. Max was always chosen to cast the cold spell on the milk being sent to the elven lands. Many less experienced mages would make the mistake of not cooling the milk properly, or of freezing it, and when it arrived at its destination it would be spoiled, or even frozen for months if no mages were nearby to thaw it out properly. A grey mage was always sent out on each ship to maintain the proper temperature during the voyage, simply because a black mage’s magical power was not needed for this task. Max had always seemed to fit right in at the shipyards, but Kazin had never paid much attention to this fact, because he had assumed it was only a temporary job for Max. Both he and Max yearned to become full mages, which would allow them to apply for jobs with larger organizations, or to be assigned to assist various armies throughout the realm. Secretly, each hoped to attain the level of master mage. This would allow them to have access to powerful magical artifacts, and even to create such artifacts themselves.

It must be hard to freeze goods at just the right temperature, mused Kazin.

It is, said Max. I’ve been getting good at freezing the goods just long enough to get to their destination, then thaw out at the right time. The finicky part is predicting the weather pattern. For hotter weather, you have to put stronger magic into place. For cooler weather, you lessen the spell a bit. Sometimes the weather changes after the ship has already left port. Then the mages on board are required to adjust for the temperature levels.

I’m glad I don’t work there, said Kazin. I’d be worrying about last week’s shipment, and never be able to concentrate on the job at hand.

You’d get used to it, said Max.

Well, maybe, muttered Kazin. Creating the exploding lightsticks for the dwarven mines seems more up my alley, though.

Yeah, it’s interesting how you can make those sticks, and they go off only by the scroll that the dwarf reads. How come they don’t all go off together when you read the scroll? asked Max.

Unless the users like to set off all the explosions at once, we create a different scroll for each stick, explained Kazin. In order not to mix them up, all you have to do is touch the scroll to the right stick, and that stick lights up. That way you know which scroll goes with which stick. At first we used symbols to match the scrolls to the sticks, but that doesn’t work very well in, say, the darkness of a mountain, where the sticks are usually used. Our lightsticks are very popular with the dwarven miners.

No wonder the dwarves pay top price for those things! said Max.

They’re certainly useful, agreed Kazin.

Unless you get a dud.

Well, yes, you get those from time to time.

By this time they had reached the wharf, and they decided to spend some time fishing off the docks. The harbour master always had some rods handy for anglers, and the boys always returned them as soon as they were done fishing. The day passed rapidly, and the boys, skunked once again, headed back to Kazin’s place for dinner. On the way, they passed the portal used to send apprentices to the tower on Sorcerer’s Isle.

That thing still gives me the creeps, said Max.

It certainly doesn’t seem natural, agreed Kazin, although it’s only magic.

Well, we’ll be going through it tomorrow morning for our early studies. What’s our lesson about this week, anyway? asked Max.

We’re reviewing spell casting from a horse’s back, and then we go to the square to do our spells while distractions are all around us. The master wants us to really learn to concentrate.

Good, said Max. I need to work on both areas if I want to pass the test.

As the boys rounded a bend in the road, still talking, a cloaked figure stepped out of the shadows behind the portal and glanced after them. He chuckled softly to himself and scratched his long grey beard. They had no idea what was on the test, he knew, but if any of his students could complete the test without a flaw, one of these two might do it. There was one ‘perfect’ student every year. Always. Unfortunately, for several years now, no students from his class had ‘perfected’ the test. The other master mages chided him for this. They suggested that perhaps he was getting soft. But not this time. This time his turn would come. This time he would show them. Sandor grinned... then frowned. What if both apprentices perfected the test? The prophecy stated that in the year in which two apprentice black mages perfected the test, one would kill the dragon, and the battle of darkness would begin. Sandor could not allow that. Then suddenly, an idea occurred to him. He chuckled again. The chuckle increased into a laugh. A laugh filled with pride. A laugh filled with fear. A laugh filled with malice. And finally, turning to the portal, a laugh of madness.

Chapter 2

T he birth was long and arduous, but finally the young colt emerged and stumbled around, testing its legs and balance. The grey-white mare was pleased. At least she had had the strength to do this one last thing before she died. She looked longingly back across the field to where the black stallion and the rest of the herd chewed contentedly on the grass, unaware of her absence. She would no longer rejoin them. She laid her head back down on the moss under the trees and closed her eyes, exhausted. The colt nuzzled her, and she was forced to open her eyes once again. The eyes that stared back at her were strangely intelligent and sympathetic at the same time. And there was something else that didn’t seem right, but her vision was quickly becoming blurred. She closed them again. Moments later, she breathed her last.

The colt felt a sense of loss at his mother’s death, but that feeling was overshadowed by a stronger sense of urgency. He looked to the clearing where the herd was gathered, and then back to his dead mother. He knew he couldn’t stay here. He was not like them. Already, he was gaining strength from an unknown source, and growing larger by the minute. There was also a task to perform, and he was accomplishing nothing by staying here. He turned and bolted into the woods in the direction that he knew was right. He ran, faster and faster, until he was only a blur. Some quarrelling chipmunks stopped momentarily when something white flitted among the trees. But it was gone in an instant, and they resumed their argument, immediately forgetting what they had seen. The colt never slowed, knowing that he could not allow himself to be seen until the time was right. He also knew other things, such as the fact that he was not a colt...

Chapter 3

T he morning was unusually hot. It was still eight days until the test, and the master mage was putting his students through many rigorous practice sessions. Here they sat in what was called ‘The Square’, an elaborate centre of commerce, with many shops and vendors, as well as travellers from across the continent, ranging from the elves in the south, to the dwarves in the east. All were haggling over prices of magical goods and wares, and the din, together with the small blue flame Kazin was forced to stare at, was giving him a headache. Finally the arch mage called a halt to the lesson, allowing the thirty or so apprentices a short rest. Kazin took advantage of this reprieve to observe his surroundings.

The square had originally been built by the black mages as a place for the selling of their wares to various interests. It provided a substantial source of income for the tower, and at the same time allowed outsiders a look at the tower itself. Many people who had feared the tower had had their fears calmed in observing it.

Kazin turned to observe the tower once again for himself. The tower, although obsidian black in colour, was a picturesque, multi-domed structure. Each lower dome was a study hall or gathering area, accessible to all black mages, whether apprentice, master, or arch mage. These lower domes surrounded a set of three higher domes, open to only master and arch mages. All the books and artifacts too powerful for an apprentice mage were stored here. Out of the center of these domes sprouted a tapered pinnacle, which was the arch mage council chamber. This was where the twelve arch mages made all of their important decisions. This was also where one could be summoned for various things, from being assigned to quests, to punishment for improper use of magic.

The most interesting part of the tower was the entrance. It was a narrow tunnel with no light on the inside. Anyone who approached the tunnel would see nothing but blackness down its depth. If someone other than a black mage attempted to enter it, they would be repelled at the entrance by an unseen force, or, if capable of magic, would be magically transported to a prison area to be dealt with by the black mages. Any acceptable black mage entering it would instantly be whisked into an apprentice hall, or into an inner dome, as determined by their current status. From there they could then walk freely between the domes as they wished. How the tower knew to distinguish black mages from others was a mystery to all except the mages themselves. Some people thought it was the rings each of the mages carried. Others thought it was the black cloaks. Still others thought it was some sort of magical spell. Kazin knew it was two of these things. Anyone having the correct ring and cloak could enter. Without both of these things, anyone trying to enter would be whisked into a prison chamber inside the tower. An arch mage would then come to investigate, and if a ring or a cloak had been lost, the black mage would be punished accordingly. If the individual was a thief, they would be dealt with severely.

Kazin shuddered at the thought of what kind of punishment they might use, and turned away from the tower to re-examine the square. The square, oddly, was a large circular area, containing the selling booths of the three mage orders, black, white and grey. Each booth specialized in magical potions, herbs and artifacts. The booths were situated on the outside edge of the square. Slightly inset from these were the eating and drinking establishments as well as the inns. These in turn surrounded a vast seating area where perhaps fifty or sixty long benches stood, separated by aisles of carefully tended shrubbery. The benches were set up in a spoke pattern, branching away from a central water fountain. The water came from the breasts of a mermaid statue, a graceful figure curving up out of the pool of clear blue water. Many people were near the pool looking at the statue, particularly the men. Some could be seen to make a wish, and then throw in a coin. For an island of sorcery, it was all very attractive, and nothing except the tower itself reminded anyone that it was being run by mages.

Of course, right now there were a lot of mages about, each of them holding a bright little flame in their hand, which suddenly startled Kazin. In his daydreaming, he had not heard the master mage give the order to resume the session! He quickly held one hand open in front of him, put his other hand into a pocket in his cloak to simultaneously touch all of his flame spell components, then quietly chanted the flame spell, immediately creating a flame in his open palm. He then removed the other hand, empty, from his pocket, needing now only to concentrate upon keeping the flame burning to maintain it. Then he looked fearfully toward the master, but breathed a sigh of relief as he realized that the master was busy berating another pupil for daydreaming.

Some spells, once started, required concentration to maintain them, while others did not. Flame spells, shield spells, swift spells, and many others, did. Warding spells, spells imparted to objects, and many others, did not. Some very powerful mages could cast certain spells without touching spell components, using only the magical energy and resolve within themselves. Often, a staff was used to help channel and amplify a mage’s magical power.

As he easily maintained his flame spell, waiting for the ever changing scenarios of the practice session to begin, his mind temporarily wandered once more, just long enough to wonder what kind of mage he might become...

The day was nearly over as Kazin and Max took the portal back to Marral.

I’m burned out, said Max wearily, and I have one giant headache to boot.

Me too, said Kazin. Why don’t we stop for a drink before we head home?

Good idea, said Max. I’ll die of thirst otherwise.

The setting sun cast an orange glow on Skull Lake as Kazin led them to a plain but solid looking inn.

Max looked at the inn dubiously. The Rising Moon?

Don’t worry, said Kazin. I know the owner. Innkeeper Barlow is a good friend of my dad. Besides, he’s always got some cold grape juice in back.

How do you know? exclaimed Max. I’ve never seen you go in there before.

Kazin smiled. In the good old days, Sherman and I knew where all the hiding places were.

I’ve got to meet that friend of yours someday, said Max.

The inn was only slightly crowded, and the air, although smoky, was still bearable. Kazin and Max headed straight to the bar and sat down. Barlow, on seeing Kazin and his friend, immediately strolled over and leaned on the counter in front of them.

Well, well, well! Nice to see you again, Kazin! Come to order the usual?

Hi John, grinned Kazin. The usual for both of us. By the way, this is Max.

How’s it going? said Barlow, using a clean dish rag to wipe his hand before proffering it.

Hi, said Max, shaking it politely.

Jeremy, two grape juices for these people, called Barlow over his shoulder.

As Kazin reached into his pocket for some change, Barlow held up a hand. It’s on me, Kazin, and any friend of yours is a friend of mine, he added, winking at Max. So, when’s the test?

In a few more days, said Kazin.

That’s odd, said Barlow. Isn’t black magic stronger during a new moon?

Yeah, answered Max. So?

Well, in about eight days, it’ll be full moon. That’s when black magic’s at its weakest.

Kazin and Max exchanged glances. Barlow was right! The test had been scheduled for full moon!

I wonder if the arch mages made a scheduling error? suggested Max.

I don’t think so, said Kazin slowly. Arch mages don’t make that kind of mistake. If anything, they deliberately scheduled the test for full moon.

But then we won’t have anything to draw on except ourselves! exclaimed Max.

Exactly, reasoned Kazin. What better way to test our magic capabilities than to see just what’s within us.

Kazin has a point there, said Barlow.

It certainly does make sense, agreed Max.

Jeremy returned with the drinks, and murmured something into Barlow’s ear.

Sorry guys, said Barlow, rising. I’ve got a shipment of ale coming in at the back, and there seems to be a problem with one of the kegs. Gotta go.

See you later, John, and thanks for the drinks, said Kazin.

No problem, Kaz.

After Barlow left, the mages returned to their discussion about the test. Do you think we’ll have to do any really dangerous spells? asked Max.

What do you mean? said Kazin.

Well, fumbled Max, what if the reason for the full moon is that clerical spells are going to be needed to heal injured mages?

Kazin thought about this for a moment and concluded, No. Sure, a cleric’s magic is stronger during full moon, but they can heal some pretty serious wounds even without the moon being full.

That’s true, said Max, relieved.

Suddenly a large hand clamped down hard on Kazin’s shoulder.

Kazin jumped. What the -, but the words ended in his mouth as, in turning, he saw who it was.

Kazin, old buddy! How are you doing? exclaimed a huge young man with long, shoulder length brown hair. The man, some seven feet tall, with arms as big as the legs of an ordinary man, gave Kazin a bear hug before he could respond.

Max, still a bit unsure about what was happening, halted the spell he was preparing to use to defend his friend.

When the man finally let go of Kazin, who ended up wheezing and gasping, he turned to Max. Have no fear, young mage. Kazin and I go back a long way. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Sherman Takar... at your service. He bowed with a flourish.

Uh... hi, stammered Max, awed by the politeness of the fearful looking man. I-I’m Max.

A pleasure, said Sherman, bowing again.

Kazin, meanwhile, had regained his breath and said, Sherman, you big oaf! You didn’t have to kill me!

You mean you’re dead? asked Sherman in mock surprise.

Yes, said Kazin, and my mage friend is keeping my body alive with magic.

Then thou art a mage of great power, he said to Max, bowing again.

Kazin gave Sherman a shot in the arm. It’s nice to see you again, Sherm.

It’s been a long time, hasn’t it? said Sherman.

Nearly two years.

Time flies when you’re having fun.

Speaking of time, interrupted Max, It’s time I was heading home. I’m sure you guys have a lot of catching up to do. Nice finally meeting you, Sherman. Kazin’s told me a lot about you.

He has, has he? said Sherman, giving Kazin a sly look.

Mostly bad, said Kazin, returning the look.

Sherman laughed. I wouldn’t have it any other way. After all, I have a reputation to uphold.

After bidding farewell to Max, the two friends sat down at the bar to chat.

You first, said Kazin. When did you get in?

Just now, as a matter of fact. We’re ahead of schedule.

We? asked Kazin, looking around the inn.

My caravan, said Sherman. Our last stop was at this inn. I was unloading the last kegs of ale out back when I saw the waiter pouring some glasses of grape juice. He nodded toward the now empty glasses on the bar. I had a hunch you might be here so I asked the waiter who he was making the drinks for. He said he heard Barlow call you ‘Kazin’, so I knew my hunch was right. Then I told the waiter there was a bad keg of ale, and to call Barlow over to check it out. As soon as Barlow saw me, he let me in the back way and I snuck up on you, and here I am.

Where have you travelled so far, and what interesting things did you see? asked Kazin.

Let’s see, now, said Sherman. I’ve been west as far as the Tower of Hope, south as far as the guard post at the foot of The Five Fingers Mountains, and east as far as the Tower of the Stars, with a view of Ten Star Reef. I’ve seen many dwarves and elves, and even a few goblins, minotaurs and ogres in the mountains.

Did you do a lot of fighting?

From time to time, answered Sherman. Mostly with bandits or thieves, but sometimes with angry creatures in the mountains, especially when we were carrying dwarven gems or magical artifacts.

Magical artifacts? pursued Kazin, his curiosity intensifying.

Yes, even artifacts, said Sherman. Most of them turned out to be fakes, though.

You mean you have no mages in your caravan to tell the real ones from the fakes?

No. That would only arouse suspicion. If no one thinks we’re carrying magical artifacts, they’re less likely to attack us. Besides, mages have more important things to do than go travelling with caravans.

I guess that’s true. But you can’t sell fake magical items.

Yes, you can.

Kazin blinked. But who would want... oh, I see... other unwary merchants.

Sherman grinned. Now you’re getting the hang of it.

Kazin shook his head. Not really.

Now it’s your turn, said Sherman. What have you been up to in the last two years?

Kazin related the events of his past two years... his mage apprenticeship, his part time job making lightsticks in the local factory, and everything else leading up to the test coming up at the end of next week. Sherman, as it happened, had some time off, and vowed to be present at the completion of Kazin’s test.

After all, he added, you might even get sent on a quest, and you’ll need to hire a body guard.

I don’t think they’ll send me on a quest right away, said Kazin, but thanks for the offer. Besides, I haven’t passed it yet.

You will, said Sherman confidently, Even if I have to drag you through it myself.

Kazin smiled up at his friend. It was good to have him back.

Over in a dark corner of the inn, a hooded, grizzled figure sat hunched quietly over his glass of ale, murmuring softly to himself. You don’t think you’ll be going on a quest right away? If you and your other mage friend both ‘perfect’ the test, you’ll go on a quest that will end your questing days... permanently! Quietly, and without drawing attention to himself, he arose and left the inn.

In another corner of the room, a burly man, young and clean shaven, had also overheard the two friends chatting. His interest, however, was not in the mage, but in the warrior. So Sherman has returned home, has he? That should make things easier, at least for a little while. He rose and left, thinking of how he would phrase his report.

The celebration that night was loud and boisterous. Mr. Takar and his wife Ezra were overjoyed at seeing their son, and Ezra, being totally unprepared for this visit, bustled nervously about in the kitchen.

Relax Ezra! shouted Takar from the sitting room. I’m sure Sherman isn’t all that hungry right now.

It’s no trouble, really, responded Ezra amid the clanging of pots and pans. I’ll be done in a jiffy!

Really, Ezra...!, began Takar.

Don’t ‘Really, Ezra’ me, Sam! interrupted Ezra. Just keep the guests entertained!

Sam Takar sighed and smiled ruefully at Sherman. Don’t ever get married, son.

I heard that! shouted Ezra from the kitchen.

Sam quickly changed the subject, Come, let’s all sit down by the fire. Randall, close those shutters over there. The breeze tonight is quite chilly. Randall, Takar’s hired hand, quickly obliged.

When Kazin, Sherman, Max, and their families had all finally seated themselves near the sitting room’s fire... all except Ezra, who, now with the assistance of Kazin’s mother, Carla, was busy preparing a feast... Sherman rose and raised his glass. To home! May everyone always have a place to come home to!

Here, here, agreed Kazin’s father, Calin.

An unreadable expression crossed Takar’s face for just an instant before he smiled and repeated, Here, here!

Everyone took a sip of their wine except Sherman, who downed his glass enthusiastically.

How many times have I told you not to gulp your wine? scolded Ezra severely from the doorway, balancing a stack of plates in her hands. Everyone laughed except Sherman, who reddened. Obviously living away from home has made you forget your manners, she continued.

Sherman looked down, crestfallen. Sorry, mom.

Then Ezra smiled, put the plates on a table nearby, and approached her son, stretching to her tiptoes to plant a kiss on his cheek. Of course, on a special occasion like today, I’ll let you get away with that kind of thing. It’s not as if you’re home every day.

Sherman smiled and hugged her, lifting her small, fragile figure up off the floor. I promise I’ll come home more often, he said, gently putting her back down again.

You had better, Ezra warned, returning to the plates. Otherwise I might forget how to make all of your favourite foods.

Later, as the party drew to a close and the last of the guests were leaving, Sam Takar drew Sherman aside in the hallway. I know you’re on holiday, son, but I need your help. I have to deliver a shipment of milk down to Arral. Shipping the milk down the river by boat is costly, since most captains are more interested in transporting all of their goods all the way down to the elves where they’ll get paid a lot more. So I have to deliver it myself by road. I know you want a rest from your work, and...

You want me to come along? asked Sherman.

If it wouldn’t be a bother. I need Randall to watch the farm while I’m gone, and the roads aren’t as safe as they used to be...

I know all about that, said Sherman. Of course I’ll come. As long as I’m back by the end of next week. I promised Kazin I’d be there when he completes his test.

No problem, said Sam. Arral is only three days by road, and when the shipment is dropped off, we can head right back home. That should leave you two days to spare.

When do we leave?

Tomorrow around noon, said Sam.

Okay, said Sherman. It’s about time I came back to help you with your farm. This will be a good start.

Sam smiled and slapped Sherman on the back. It’s settled then. I’ll get Frosty to help prepare the shipment in the morning.

Frosty? Who’s that?

That’s Kazin’s young friend, Max. Some of us call him Frosty because he’s so successful with freezing spells. I spoke with him tonight, and he agreed to give me a hand tomorrow morning. Now, let’s get back to that apple pie your mother prepared for us, shall we?

You mean for me, chided Sherman.

You won’t be able to eat all of it, said Sam.

Wanna bet? said Sherman, stepping toward the dining room.

You’re on, said Sam, pushing his son aside and racing ahead of him.

No running in my house! yelled Ezra from the kitchen.

Since the introductions earlier that evening, Randall, the hired hand, had managed to slip into the background. It was easier to keep an eye on everything and everyone that way, particularly Sherman. Randall, like Sherman, was a solid, heavyset man. Although not as big as Sherman; few were that big; he was still powerfully built. He had dark hair and eyes, and a penetrating gaze. He also appeared to be fairly young, perhaps in his early twenties. Those conversing with him usually got the impression that he was a pleasant, intelligent young man. That suited him just fine. They didn’t need to know his secret. He stepped out from the shadows and into the hallway where the father and son had just been talking. He had overheard their entire conversation, and was glad he had. He was surprised that Sherman was leaving so soon after arriving. He’d expected a visit lasting longer than that. But perhaps this could fit better into his own plans. In any case, he had a lot of work to do tomorrow, and he needed some rest. He entered the dining room and approached Sam Takar, who was eating a large piece of pie. It’s time I went to bed, Mr. Takar, said Randall politely. I’ll get up early and feed the animals so you can sleep in a bit.

Thank you, my lad, said Takar. Have a good night.

After bidding good night to Sam and Sherman, Randall left by way of the kitchen, and ran into Ezra, who was putting away the last of the dishes.

Turning in? she asked.

Yes. Good night, said Randall.

Good night.

As Randall headed up the stairs, Ezra called, Randall, wait! I almost forgot. Here. She picked up a small covered dish and handed it to him. It’s some leftovers for your pets. I’m afraid it isn’t much now that Sherman’s here.

Randall smiled. Thank you, Mrs. Takar. Good night. He took the tray and climbed the stairs to his bedroom.

Ezra smiled after him. Such a nice boy, she murmured.

Shortly after he left, Sherman entered the kitchen with an enormous piece of pie in his hand. What’s this I hear about pets? he inquired, biting off a huge chunk.

You were eavesdropping! scolded Ezra.

I know, said Sherman, after taking a moment to swallow before answering. But I’m a little nervous about Randall. All evening I felt his eyes boring a hole into the back of my neck. It’s as if he was watching me or something. He bit off another chunk of pie.

He seems to be a nice young man, said Ezra coolly. In the last couple of weeks he’s been a big help to both me and your father. He is well mannered and sincere. If he was looking at you maybe he was wishing he could be our son too. His own parents died when he was still a child. Seeing Sherman’s face redden, Ezra lightened her tone. Maybe it’s just your imagination, Sherman. Your job requires that you be suspicious of everyone and everything.

You could be right, admitted Sherman, stuffing the last piece of pie into his mouth.

Anyway, continued Ezra, in answer to your original question, Randall keeps pigeons in the attic. Ordinarily, I wouldn’t allow such a thing, but it makes him happy so I let it go. As long as they don’t make too much of a mess, that is.

That seems harmless enough, said Sherman.

Of course it is. Want some more pie?

Sure!

Chapter 4

T he day dawned bright, but clear, as Max and Kazin entered the portal in Marral. For the last two years they had travelled by portal nearly every day, with the exception of weekends, but the experience was still unnerving. Upon entering the portal, everything became pitch black. Then the temperature dropped nearly to freezing. Then, within moments, it would become unbearably hot. Just when it was almost too hot to humanly endure, it would rapidly become freezing cold once again. These temperature changes repeated themselves several times, quickening each time, until the rise and fall of temperature was almost instantaneous. At this point it again became comfortable for the portal traveller, feeling like normal room temperature. Then the rise and fall of temperature would once again slow down, ending in a cold draft that warmed to normal again as the mage found himself standing in the portal at his destination. When returning the way he had come, the mage would experience the same temperature changes as before, ending up back at the original portal. Each portal led only to the one it was magically linked with, never any other one. Any number of mages could travel the portal in either direction, but they would never encounter one another. Travellers were always isolated from each other.

When Kazin and Max arrived in the tower’s courtyard, Max arriving just after Kazin, they looked across the courtyard into the distance, to where another portal, the one from Warral, stood. At that instant a mage appeared, followed by another. Many apprentices were arriving today for the test. It was going to be a busy day for the tower. They started off toward the tower’s entrance, following the other new arrivals, with more appearing from the portal they had just vacated. The entrance to the tower looked dark and foreboding, but they confidently stepped through, instantly being whisked into a large inner lecture hall. Unlike the portals, this form of travel involved no temperature changes. It just happened.

Kazin looked around the hall, observing the numerous other mages in the room. There appeared to be about one hundred or so apprentice mages present, both male and female, with more appearing every minute. The hall, designed for a total of perhaps two hundred people, was beginning to get crowded. When all the seats were taken, several mages had to stand along the outside edge of the seating area. The murmur of voices, combined with the scraping of chair legs on the floor, generated so much noise that many didn’t notice the arrival of the head arch mage.

The head arch mage was an older man of average height, with a slight stoop to his shoulders, and a long, flowing white beard. His weathered face showed signs of strain due to years of spell casting, but also indicated a ruggedness that came with the experiences of many quests. These features paled, however, when compared with his eyes. They were a penetrating dark blue, and in them one could see a determination, an inner strength, and yet a youthfulness that belied his age. He calmly climbed the steps to the teaching platform, and quickly but firmly rapped his staff on the table, drawing attention to himself and creating a hush in the lecture hall. This hall, like the other halls, had a built-in ‘loud’ spell on the platform. This spell amplified the voice of whoever was standing on it, so that when the head arch mage finally spoke, all could hear him clearly.

It is an honour for me to welcome you all to the tower on this special occasion, he began. "After two years of teaching and training, you have all managed to come a long way with your spell casting abilities. We started out with nearly five hundred applicants, and more than two hundred of you showed promise as potential mages. With our apprenticeship program, we were able to teach you both magic skills and trade skills, and how they could be combined. Those apprentice mages who did not have the inherent potential to cast spells competently have been directed to other career options. Now, you, the remaining apprentice mages, will each have this one chance to become a full-fledged mage, or even a master mage, as determined by your aptitude in the upcoming test. Regardless of the outcome, your taking this test will stabilize and improve your future, as well as increase your responsibilities. Apprentices, there are four possible outcomes of the test. I will give you a brief description of each.

"The first possible outcome of the test is failure. For those apprentices who fail, and I personally hope that none of you fail, you will not be abandoned. You will have the support of the tower in finding work that is suitable to your abilities. Unfortunately, you will not be given the chance to redo the test. So be careful!

"The second possible outcome of the test is reaching the level of mage. Most of you will fall into that category. This will indicate that you have passed the initial requirements of the test, and are ready to serve the tower, or be sent to assist the armies. Either way, you will embark on a positive career change, doing work which is much more important than the work you have done thus far.

"The third possible outcome of the test is reaching the level of master mage. Very few of you will reach this level, but if you do, you will serve the tower in a myriad of ways. For example, you may become teachers, not unlike the master mages who have trained you. Or you can become involved in the making of magical artifacts, which requires a greater command of magic. Reaching this level allows the study and use of existing magical artifacts, which are very powerful indeed! Master mages are also sent on important and dangerous quests. As I said, your responsibilities will increase with your station.

Finally, there is the fourth possible outcome of the test. There is likely to be one mage among you who will ‘perfect’ the test. Every year, one apprentice succeeds in perfecting the test. We don’t know why or how, but it has worked out this way for hundreds of years. I myself am one of those.

The hall, silent until now, suddenly rose in a chorus of murmurs. The head arch mage rapped his staff on the desk again and continued. This successful mage will still only achieve the rank of master mage, but will be one of several master mages who will have the opportunity to be elected to the governing body of the twelve arch mages, of which I am one. To be elected, there must first be a vacancy. When that occurs, those master mages who have perfected the test are automatically entered into the election. The other master mages then vote for the candidate they think has shown that they have the most to contribute to the tower and its operation. But understand, the one who perfects the test today may still never be elected, or could serve the tower as a master mage for many years before being elected. So don’t assume you will become a leader on your first day.

At this there were a few chuckles.

The head arch mage cleared his throat. Enough of politics. Now I must tell you about the test itself. As many of you have probably noticed, the test takes place during full moon, which is today.

There was a surprised groan from those who hadn’t considered this fact until now.

The reason for this, continued the head arch mage, is to see if you can cast spells when the black energy of the moon is at its weakest. This will show us how well you can draw the energy from within yourself.

Kazin felt an elbow nudge his side. You were right, whispered Max.

You may have been wondering why, during the last week or so, your instructors have been making you create a simple flame in the palm of your hand, said the head arch mage. This was to prepare you for the test. You see, to pass the test you must create a flame in your palm, and never allow it to go out. To do so will end the test immediately.

There was a murmur of surprise at this statement.

Yes, said the head arch mage. It sounds easy, doesn’t it? But when the odds are against you, it isn’t that simple at all. The mages who will be testing you won’t merely be distracting you, like the noisy children in the square. They’ll be doing everything in their power to put out your flame!

At this there were some sounds of concern.

Furthermore, stated the head arch mage, "the draw of magical power from that simple flame can begin to seem like a heavy, constricting chain around your neck, especially when you are casting other spells to defend yourself!

In this way we can learn what you are truly capable of. We need to learn if you can use your magic successfully... in unpredictable circumstances while you are alone on a quest... and in the heat of a pitched battle, surrounded by enemies trying to kill you!

Now several of the apprentices were holding their heads in their hands, grimacing at the possibility of failure.

Do not be afraid! yelled the head arch mage.

The strength of that shout caused many to lift their heads in surprise.

You have been taught all that you need to know to pass the test, he continued in a calmer tone, but still loudly. If you quell your fears, concentrate on keeping your flame alive, and think your way efficiently through problems, you should succeed in the test.

What about the stories of mages who died during the test? called out one apprentice.

There have been fatalities and injuries during the test, conceded the head arch mage, "but very rarely. Those who were injured or killed made foolhardy attempts to cast magical spells that were beyond their capabilities. In later levels of the test, you will have to do battle with various enemies, and the wrong selection of spell could weaken your defence enough to allow your opponents to injure you. We will have clerics ready should any of you be injured. Approach each part of the test with caution, and you should prevail.

"Unfortunately, I cannot tell you any more about the test. I will give each of you a pouch of spell components, some of which you may need during the test. Each pouch has a magical seal which cannot be opened until you enter the test area. This prevents tampering by anyone, including even arch mages. You will also be given a plain staff. Remember your fighting skills! You must leave your personal staff and pouch with us before entering the test area. They will not be permitted. Neither will any magical artifacts that you might have in your possession. If any of these items happen to enter the test area, they will magically be sent to a holding area where I will determine what to do with them. This is to prevent anyone from cheating. Before beginning the test, you must magically create your flame using the flint and dried leaves spell components I have here for that purpose. Once you have created this flame, do not let it go out!

"One last thing. You will remember my speech here, and the test which follows, but you will not be able to tell anyone about them. All knowledge of the test is magically protected, and no matter how hard you try to tell someone about it, whether by word of mouth or by letter, you will not be able to do it. This goes for all of you, whether you pass or fail. And attempting to take the test more than once is magically prevented. The test room remembers who has entered before.

I wish you all good luck. And remember. Don’t let the flame go out. I can’t stress the importance of this enough, said the head arch mage sternly, shaking his staff at the apprentices. Without another word he went to the back of the lecture hall and chanted a spell. Where there had previously been nothing, a table filled with pouches of spell components appeared. On the wall nearby appeared several racks of staves, all plain and unadorned. And next to them a closed doorway appeared. Turning around to face the nearest apprentices, the head arch mage asked, Now, who wants to go first?

Finally, it came to be Kazin’s turn to begin the test. He strapped his pouch to his side, picked up a plain staff, cast the flame spell in his hand using the flint and dried leaves supplied by the head arch mage, and cautiously entered the test room. As soon as he entered, everything became pitch black outside of a few feet of the flame in his hand. He turned around to look back to the room he had just exited, but nothing was there. Suddenly a strong gust of wind blew past him from front to back, threatening to put out his flame. His flame wavered only slightly, and his concentration remained strong as he waited for the wind to die down. It would take more than a gust of wind to blow out his flame, he thought, considering all the practice he’d been getting the last two weeks. He barely needed to concentrate on it anymore. He waited for several more seconds, alert for some other attack, then decided to check the contents of the pouch he had been given.

His pouch opened easily as he freed the magical seal. There were a number of items inside, several of which Kazin would definitely have brought with him, had he been given the opportunity to pack the pouch himself. There was a small rock, some flint, several dried leaves, animal fur, a piece of cloth and of leather, several small vials of water, pouches containing either sand or salt, tree bark, a chunk of clay, a pigeon feather, and a raven’s feather. This last item he picked up, trying to recall the spells it was used for. Unfortunately, he didn’t have time to think about it, because another stronger gust of wind came along, whipping the feather out of his hand, and blowing fiercely at his flame. Again, he endured through the wind, and managed to wait patiently, while silently berating himself for losing the feather. Soon the wind died down, and gave way to a steady downpour of rain. Kazin quickly reached into his pouch with his free hand. Grasping the small rock firmly in his fist, he chanted several magical incantations, and a magical shield appeared over his flame, keeping it dry despite the deluge. A few minutes later, the wind picked up again, blowing the rain horizontally toward the flame. Kazin merely concentrated a little harder, and extended the shield around his entire hand. This continued for several more minutes until finally both the wind and rain stopped abruptly. By this time Kazin was drenched to the bone. He shuddered and cancelled his shield spell, knowing how important it was to conserve his magical energy, as well as his strength. If he had covered his entire body with a shield spell, yes, he would still be dry, but he would also be exhausted. At this point, conserving magical energy counted for more than physical comfort.

After a brief pause, Kazin heard a distant droning sound that seemed to be coming closer. He quickly created another shield over his flame and waited. Before long, he felt a sting on his cheek. Then another. Hornets! Kazin frantically pawed the stone in his hand and added to his original spell. Instantly his shield covered his entire body, and not a moment too soon. There was such a large number of hornets around him that they created a shield of their own. Realizing he was protected, Kazin began to relax, but then he caught his breath. His flame was beginning to weaken. He now had protection from the hornets, but he had cut off his air supply! To get enough air for both himself and his flame, he needed to open his shield. But how could he do it without exposing himself to the hornets? An idea occurred to him. He raised his hand holding the flame, and lessened his concentration on the shield spell just enough to weaken it. He pressed the flame up into the top of the weakened shield, allowing it to burn through. Then he drew it back only slightly, holding it close enough to the hole to stop the advance of any hornets. This seemed to work effectively, and several minutes later, the hornets were gone. Kazin wearily let go of his shield spell. He nearly lost his flame in the process, but the sudden rush of fresh air helped him quickly revive it to its original brightness. That last spell had drawn a fair amount of his magical energy. The flame, although a lesser spell, was also draining him continuously. He didn’t know how much more time remained in the test, but he knew he would have to use his magic wisely in order to succeed.

Meanwhile, Max’s encounter had begun the same as Kazin’s. When he had entered the test room, he had half expected to see Kazin, who had entered just moments before. This was not the case, however, and Max had adapted quickly. A downpour had just ended, and Max re-examined the contents of his pouch. The things that interested him most were the vials of water. When combined with the rock, and the proper incantation, they would create an