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The Wizard of Bright Isle

Momsdarksecret

Chapter 1: Kieran It was too dark to see the black clouds scudding across the night sky, even when the tree branches crowding over the path separated enough to reveal them. But the thick white blanket of snow that covered the ground knee deep in the open places and weighed the branches down until they creaked under the weight gave ample evidence of the storm that had just passed through, leaving the remnant of clouds behind. Kieran trudged carefully through the snow, clutching his thin cloak to his chest with his right hand. He held his left out in front of him, chest high. A bright yellow ball of witch fire danced above his palm, casting just enough light for him to see where he was going. Kieran wished the fire also made heat. He was chilled to the bone. He had to clamp his teeth together to keep them from chattering. But witch fire was a spell of light only. That's what made it safe to use and no one ever got thrown in prison for creating a little witch fire. But getting caught performing a dangerous spell could get you locked up for weeks, or even months, while the king's royal wizards conditioned you. Kieran knew personally only one person who had been through the wizard's conditioning and she had never been the same after her release. She had been terrified of even the simplest magic and had finally moved away to live all alone on an island just off the coast. Of course, everyone knew the wizards themselves performed magic of all kinds, even the dark spells that summoned demons to do their bidding, but no one talked about it. It was safer not to.

Kieran's breath puffed out in a white cloud as he walked. The crunch of his boots and his own labored breathing were the only sounds he heard in the snow-muffled darkness. He wasn't surprised. Any creature with sense was huddled somewhere warm, sheltering from the cold night. But the poor did not always have options, and Kieran's master had insisted that he go into town and buy fever medicine from the apothecary as soon as the storm ended. No one at the estate had a fever at the moment, but the master was always sure he was about to get terribly sick, especially after a storm, and he had to have fever medicine on hand at all times, just in case. Perhaps it was because his father and one of his cousins had died of fever. But the reason didn't matter. Kieran was a servant and he did as he was told.

A faint whining sound made Kieran stop in his tracks and look around in alarm. There were normally no dangerous animals in these woods, but anything could happen after a storm. He whispered a spell and the witch fire got bigger, casting light a short way into the trees on either side. A flicker of light off to his right drew his attention and he lifted his hand, raising the witch fire higher. Two points of golden light shone back at him. Then the lights disappeared for a moment and reappeared. Kieran took a step backward. Something had just blinked at him. As he stared, a shape moved uncertainly in the shadows. It wasn't large, about the size of a badger, but Kieran could not tell what it was. He took another worried step backward and the creature came forward into the light. Big golden eyes that were only a little darker at the center blinked at him from above a short wide muzzle with a pink triangular nose. Its slender paws had four stubby toes, each tipped with a short, sharp claw. As it stepped tentatively forward, its toes splayed out naturally to give it stable footing in the wet snow. When Kieran remained frozen in place, it took another careful step forward and its whole body came into view. Thick dark-brown fur clad its short, lean body and shed moisture from the snow in steady drips. The fur thinned as it went down the slender legs, exposing dark smooth skin that gleamed wetly. Its back legs were a little shorter than the front and a little closer together, making the hips narrower than the chest. Sharply pointed ears rose from the top of its head, separated by a slight

ridge that started just above the creature's nose and ran up between its eyes and over its head. It had a short tail whose tip, like the creature's legs, was furless and smooth.

Kieran held his breath, afraid to move. He had heard tales about these creatures, but had hoped never in his life to see one. They were called madrin and were said to be ferocious killers. Everyone knew at least one story about someone, usually from another town, who had been torn to shreds by a madrin. But the stories also said that if you killed one and made its fur into a cloak, you could not be killed. It was also said that if you ground its bones into a powder, mixed it with water and drank it, you would stop aging. But of course, these same stories never said how anyone managed to kill one of these terrible creatures. Kieran stared at the madrin and wondered if he was going to die. The madrin stared back at him, unmoving. Then it looked back over its shoulder and whined. When it looked at Kieran again, it flicked out a bright blue tongue and quickly licked its nose. It took another step toward Kieran and whined again. Kieran frowned. The creature did not look dangerous, it looked frightened. Quite suddenly, it dashed across the path and into the darkness on the other side. Kieran whirled around to watch it and then he looked down in surprise. The creature had left no tracks in the snow. He looked up again but the madrin was no longer in sight. Kieran swallowed. Staying out here alone in the woods at night with the madrin seemed worse than foolish. He turned to continue on his way, but after three steps, he stopped. He could hear voices. "This way, my lord!" a voice cried shrilly. "I sense the creature in this direction!" "You had better be right this time, Kromel!" "I am sure of it, my lord! Look, I see a light!" Kieran immediately wished he had extinguished his witch light. Now he dared not. He turned to face the approaching men fearfully. When three riders finally came into view, Kieran immediately dropped to one knee and lowered his head, despite

the snow. Only an idiot would fail to recognize the trappings of a nobleman and his attendants.

"This is no madrin, Kromel," the nobleman said, his voice dripping with contempt. "You, boy!" The third man said. "What are you doing here?" Kieran replied without raising his head. "I am returning from an errand for my master Lord Inchor, honored sir." "Inchor?" muttered the nobleman. "We must be near to his estate. You fool, Kromel! There are no madrin on Inchor's land. Do you think he would not have taken advantage of it by now?" "But my lord...!" "Tell me, boy, have you seen or heard anything unusual tonight?" Kieran's mind raced. These men were hunting the madrin, no doubt because they believed the stories about the powers to be gained from it. But the creature had not attacked him, which made Kieran wonder if the stories about its ferocity were true. And if those stories were untrue, what about the other stories? "I have not seen anything, honored sir," Kieran said carefully. Many servants believed it was dangerous to lie to noblemen, but Kieran knew otherwise. Noblemen believed no one would dare lie to them, therefore they believed everything they were told was the truth. If a servant was caught in a lie, all he had to do was admit to being a fool and mistaken. "There, Kromel! This boy kneeling here unscathed is proof enough there is no madrin here. We're returning. I'm cold and hungry and tired of your incompetence. I'm going to hire a new wizard." "No, my lord!" The wizard reined his horse around anxiously and followed his retreating master. He continued to plead for his job as their voices receded. Kieran stood up to find the third man still regarding him. "Using witch fire to light your way?"

"Yes, honored sir. It is too dark to see the path."

"Do you know any other spells?" The faint suspicion in the man's tone made Kieran answer very carefully. "Just the spell to make stagnant water fresh, honored sir." "I see. Well, you should make haste. Despite our wizard's incompetence, there was a madrin in this area not long ago." "I will. Thank you, honored sir." The man rode into the trees and disappeared. Kieran remained where he was until he could no longer hear anything, then he turned around and stepped into the trees on the far side of the path. "Hey, little madrin, where are you?" There was a soft whine off to his left and Kieran moved in that direction. After a little searching, he found the madrin huddled at the base of a tree. It blinked at him and scrunched down smaller against the ground. "There, there, little fellow; I'm not going to hurt you." Kieran dropped his witch fire and carefully leaned down to encircle the creature with his arms. It whimpered slightly but did not resist as he lifted it. Kieran cradled the madrin against his chest. "Poor thing. You're just as scared as you can be, aren't you?" The madrin was heavier than he expected and its sharp little claws kept poking into him in unexpected places. Kieran shifted it around in his grip until he had it nestled more or less above his right hip, resting in the curve of his right arm with its back legs curled up against his side and its front paws resting on his shoulders. With its wide face so close to his, he discovered it had an earthy kind of scent and its pink nose was warm. "You're kind of cute, you know that?" Kieran held his left hand out and recreated his witch fire. "Let's get home and find something to eat, eh?" The rest of his trek through the forest went quickly. It was good to have company, even a near-mystical creature like a madrin. At his master's estate, Kieran went first to the long, low building where most of the servants lived. Only the best quality servants got to live in the manor house with the noble family. Everyone else lived outside in the servant quarters. The advantage to the

servant quarters, however, was that each servant had a private room. In fact, it was rather like a stable and among themselves the servants called it that. But each room had its own door, a small window in the back, a cot, a stool, a washstand and a small iron stove for heating.

Inside his small room, Kieran put the madrin on his cot. "Now you stay here and be quiet until I get back. I have to take the master his medicine and then I'll get some food for us." The madrin blinked at him and sat down. Kieran closed the door carefully and hurried to the manor house. He entered through the kitchen door and was immediately accosted by the cook. "Where have you been? The master's been calling for his medicine for an hour!" "I'm sorry," Kieran said quickly. "The apothecary made me wait. I hurried as best I could but the footing's bad from the snow." He held out the little pouch which he'd kept tucked inside his shirt to stay dry. "Such excuses!" the cook said, but there was no anger in her tone. She pointed to a wooden trencher with a cloth over it sitting on the long counter by the stove. "Your supper's over there. And I put some coals for your stove in that sand pot next to it. You look about frozen solid." "Thank you." "Right, then. Don't you make a mess in my kitchen while I'm gone." "No ma'am." When she was gone, Kieran quickly tucked the sand pot into the crook of one arm, grabbed his supper and hurried back to his room. The madrin was sitting exactly where he'd left it, watching the door expectantly. Kieran put the trencher on his stool and carried the sand pot to the stove. "If you don't mind, I'm going to do this first," he said. He had placed a few lumps of charcoal in the stove that morning, so now he opened the flue and used his

tongs to carefully remove the hot coals from the sand pot and nestle them into the middle of the pile. He blew on the coals until they glowed bright red and little flickers of blue fire began licking at the charcoal. "There! That should start warming things up in a bit." He closed the grill and turned back to the madrin. It was watching him with what Kieran almost took to be curiosity.

"Hungry? I sure am." Kieran uncovered his supper. The trencher was filled with a thick meat and vegetable stew. A chunk of coarse white bread was sitting on top and a spoon was tucked along one side. Kieran sat down next to the madrin. The bread had already soaked up some of the gravy, so Kieran tore off a chunk and offered it to the madrin. "Go ahead. Try it." The madrin stuck out its tongue, delicately lifted the bread from Kieran's fingers and pulled the morsel into its mouth. It blinked several times and licked its nose. "Yeah, it's pretty good." Kieran tore the bread up into bite-size chunks and stirred it into the stew. "I think it's better this way." He inched over and set the trencher down between them. He pointed with his spoon. "You eat that side and I'll eat this side. It looks like there's plenty for both of us." It was almost as if the madrin understood him. It lowered its head and began munching the stew from the end nearest itself neatly. Kieran watched the madrin as he spooned stew into his own mouth. When the madrin pulled its lips back from its mouth, he could see a row of short sharp fangs right at the front on the top and bottom that closed like scissors and looked able to cut through anything. But the teeth further back were wide and blunt, like the molars in his own mouth. Although those sharp front teeth were clearly designed for cutting and tearing meat, the rear teeth allowed the madrin to grind up plant matter. Its long, prehensile tongue probably allowed it to eat insects as well. Kieran thought about that as he ate. The madrin must be omnivorous. But that belied its reputation as a savage meateater. None of the stories about madrin made sense. But then he remembered that the madrin had left no tracks in the snow and he began to wonder. He could see indentations in the blanket where the madrin had stepped, so why had it left no marks in the snow? It was a puzzle.

They finished the stew and the madrin sat up, licking its lips. Its eyelids were starting to droop over its big eyes and it yawned.

"You're tired, eh? Well, you've had a rough day, I guess." Kieran put the trencher on the floor. "Let's get under the blanket. It will be warmer." The madrin hopped off the bed and Kieran slid under the blanket. He held the edge up and beckoned to the madrin. "Get in." The madrin put its front paws on the bed and looked at him. "It's all right. Get in." The madrin crawled onto the cot and snuggled up against his side. Warmth radiated from its thick fur and Kieran put his arm around it. "Go to sleep. You're safe here." The madrin's eyes closed and its side rose and fell steadily. Kieran closed his eyes too. He had never had a pet before, but the madrin did not seem like a pet. It felt more like having a friend. In the morning, the coals had burned down and the room was chilly. His wash water was cold, but at least no ice had formed in it. Kieran splashed water on his face, shuddering as the cold water ran down his neck and onto his chest. He grinned at the madrin, which was carefully washing its face and paws with its long blue tongue. "I wish I could bathe that way." Kieran poured some of his water into the trencher and spoke a spell to freshen it. The madrin lapped the water gratefully. Kieran sat down on the cot and stroked the madrin's soft fur. "I don't know what I'm going to do with you today. We have to be careful. If anyone sees you, it will cause trouble. I'll try to get you back into the woods somehow, but then I'm afraid you'll be on your own. I just hope you'll be all right." The madrin put a paw on his knee and mewed at him. Kieran stroked a finger along one of its claws. The tip was razor sharp. "You could hurt somebody pretty badly if you wanted to, but you don't really want to, do you?" Kieran stood up. "I need you to stay here for now. As soon as I figure out what to do, I'll come back." As he expected, other servants were already up. Kieran went about his own chores as if there were nothing unusual going on. He collected the eggs out of the chicken coop and brought them to the kitchen for the cook. He got some bread and jam for his

breakfast and slipped an extra slice of bread inside his shirt when no one was looking. He was about to go back to his room to give the bread to the madrin when one of the maids dashed in, breathless with excitement.

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"Wait 'til you hear!" she cried. "A gentleman named Lord Machura is here with his wizard. They say there is a madrin on the estate!" "A madrin?" the cook exclaimed in horror. "But that's terrible! Everyone must come inside at once!" "They're hunting it," the maid continued, "but since it's here, they have had to promise Lord Inchor a share in its magic. That Lord Machura didn't look happy about that, but the master is very happy. He just gave them permission to search the estate." Kieran paled. "I'll go warn everyone to come inside!" he called out and dashed out of the kitchen. He raced across the yard to his room in a panic. No one was in sight near the servant quarters, but when he looked back over his shoulder, five men on horseback came around the side of the manor, led by the wizard from the night before. Kieran plunged into his room. "Come with me!" He held his cloak open and wrapped his arms and the cloak around the madrin. Quickly, he slipped back out of the room and scurried along the front of the servant quarters, heading for the woods. "My lord! There it is!" It was the wizard's voice. "That's not a madrin!" "It's the same boy!" cried the third man from last night. "Stop him!" Kieran broke into a run, but it was no use. He could not outrun horses. They caught him just steps away from the edge of the woods, surrounding him. Lord Machura leaned forward, his face dark with anger. "You lied to me last night, boy! What are you hiding under your cloak?" Kieran shook his head. He could feel the madrin trembling. It was terrified. "It's nothing, just a stray dog!"

"It's a madrin!" the wizard exclaimed. "I can feel its magic."

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Lord Machura urged his horse forward. "I mean to kill that madrin, boy, and it doesn't matter to me if you die, too." He drew his sword and pointed it at Kieran. "Release the creature and I'll spare you." "No!" "So be it!" Lord Machura raised his sword and struck. Kieran whirled around, protecting the madrin with his own body. The blow from the sword shocked him. It slashed across his back and he felt his spine sever. He collapsed to the ground, his arms still clasping the madrin, but he could no longer feel its warmth against his chest. It seemed like he should be in pain, but he was not, even though he knew the wound was fatal. The madrin's head poked out of his cloak and it stared at him. "I see it, my lord! Kill it!" Kieran wished there was something else he could do, but he could not move. His vision was already fading. He stared back into the madrin's big golden eyes. "I'm sorry," he whispered. A deafening roar shook the ground and made all the trees shed their burden of snow. "What was that?" Lord Machura cried. Other exclamations echoed his and then a riot of screams broke out, accompanied by a terrible howling. A giant paw, like the madrin's only much bigger, stepped momentarily into Kieran's field of view. The madrin squirmed in his embrace and Kieran let it go. The creature scampered away, mewing excitedly. Something struck Kieran on the shoulder and he tumbled over. Now he could see the manor house and the grounds. A madrin the size of a horse stood over the corpse of Lord Machura's wizard. Lord Machura himself was struggling to escape from under his fallen horse, defended by two of his soldiers. The body of the third soldier was sprawled in a pool of blood behind the giant madrin. The smaller madrin stood underneath the larger, its front paws resting on the dead wizard's chest.

As Kieran watched, the madrin backed up slowly, moving in his direction. Then they turned their backs on the men and trotted purposefully toward Kieran. The soldiers immediately rushed to help their master.

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The giant madrin stopped over Kieran and stared down at him. Its golden eyes were the size of dinner plates. The little madrin nudged him with its pink nose and then licked his face with its bright blue tongue. "You're just a baby," Kieran breathed. "No wonder you were so scared." The big madrin slowly lowered its head until its giant pink nose touched Kieran's face. It sniffed slowly down his body and stopped when it got to his wounded back. It licked Kieran's wound with a tongue that was bigger than Kieran's arm. A shock as sudden and as painful as the sword strike shot through Kieran's body. He would have screamed, but his body went rigid and the air was forced from his lungs. He stared up at the madrin helplessly as tears of pain leaked from the corners of his eyes. The pain receded slowly. When Kieran could finally draw a breath again, the gasp that filled his lungs made his arms and legs jerk. The realization made him freeze again. "My legs!" he gasped. "I can feel my legs!" Kieran sat up and looked down at himself. His clothes were soaked with blood. His cloak and shirt had been cut nearly in half and hung in tatters. But his skin beneath was whole and unmarked. He put his hand on his back, but there was no scar. He looked at the madrin. "Thank you," he whispered. The big madrin dipped its head in a brief bow. The little madrin licked Kieran's face again. Then the two creatures trotted away into the woods and were quickly lost from view. Kieran rose slowly to his feet and looked around. Lord Machura and his soldiers were staring at him. Beyond them, he could see Lord Inchor and several servants huddled near the kitchen door. Not knowing what else to do, Kieran walked toward them. Seeing it was only him, Lord Inchor rushed forward.

"What happened, Kieran? What did you do? Why didn't the madrin eat you?"

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Kieran stopped in front of his master and bowed. "The madrin aren't killers, honored master. I protected the young one from Lord Machura's sword and was rewarded with my life." A man Kieran had never seen before stepped out from among the cluster of servants. He pushed back his cloak and revealed the robe of a wizard. "How did you come to know the madrin are not murderous creatures, boy? Do you have the sight?" Kieran quickly dropped to one knee and bowed his head, as did the other servants, who apparently had not been aware that a wizard stood in their midst. Kieran shuddered, for the wizard bore the crest of the king on his shoulder. He was a royal wizard! "Answer me, boy." "I do not have the sight, honored sir," Kieran said nervously. "But last night I fed the baby madrin and slept with it in my room. It did me no harm." The wizard chuckled. "Perhaps you have not the sight, but you do have the gift. Did you not know that only a wizard can touch a live madrin with his bare hand?" Kieran looked up at the wizard in surprise. "I do not understand." The wizard reached out and rested his hand gently on Kieran's head. "Person's born with the wizard's gift do not always come to our attention in time for us to train them, unfortunately. Often we do not learn of them until they are sent to us for conditioning against the use of dangerous magic." He smiled down at Kieran. "I am glad I found you, although I originally came hoping to protect the madrin." The wizard bent over and whispered to Kieran, "It is a rare individual who offers his life to save another's." The wizard straightened and turned to Lord Inchor. Lord Inchor bowed hastily. "Honored sir, I was unaware that the madrin are protected creatures! I would never have allowed this hunt had I known."

Kieran stared. He had never heard a lord use the servant's form of address to another.

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The wizard waved his hand dismissively. "I understand, Lord Inchor. There are more stories about madrin than there are madrin themselves. The creatures are rare and normally stay well clear of men. But sometimes their young will blunder too close to human settlements and get slaughtered for their bones. And you have seen the fury of the adults when their young are endangered." He gestured toward the dead. "But now that you are aware, I charge you to protect these creatures, should you find them on your land again." "I will, honored sir!" "Good." The wizard turned back to Kieran and held out his hand. "Come, young wizard, it is time to be on our way." Kieran stood up slowly. "But where, honored sir?" The wizard smiled. "You will come to the wizard's hall on Bright Isle to be trained. And I suspect many there will want to study you as well. I believe you are the only person to ever have been healed by a living madrin. While the powder made from their bones has incredible healing properties, it cannot stop death once death has taken its hold. I saw the sword strike you. The wound was fatal." Kieran ducked his head to hide from the incredulous stares of his master and the other servants. "But I am only a servant, honored sir. I have no family and have benefited from Lord Inchor's generosity." "I understand, but everything is different for you now. Call me Master Colwyn, Kieran. I will be your instructor until we return to Bright Isle." The wizard put an arm around Kieran's shoulders. "I am taking this young wizard-in-training out of your employment, Lord Inchor." "Of course, honored sir!" Lord Inchor bowed hastily. "We are pleased to have been of service, however indirectly, to the wizards of Bright Isle."

Kieran glanced wistfully toward the forest. He remembered the soft feel of the madrin's fur and the warm touch of its pink nose. "Do you think I will ever see the madrin again, Master Colwyn?"

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"I don't know. I never thought to see a man rise up from certain death; but all things, it seems are possible. Let us be on our way." Lord Inchor gave Kieran a change of clothes that had been his when he was a boy. The rich fabric felt smooth and strange against Kieran's skin. It also felt odd to be standing outside in a thick cloak that actually kept out the cold. He had tried to say goodbye to the other servants, but they were afraid to talk to him now. Only the cook had given him a quick hug and a peck on the forehead, along with a hasty farewell. "You take good care of yourself, boy," she had whispered. Now Kieran waited for Colwyn to finish his conversation with Lord Inchor. The wizard had come on horseback and Kieran held the reins as he waited. When at last Colwyn approached him, Kieran held out the reins. "Can you ride, Kieran?" "No, Master Colwyn." "Very well. You can sit behind me. We have much to talk about." They mounted the horse and started down the path to town. "Master Colwyn?" "Yes, Kieran?" "Am I really a a wizard?" "Not yet, but you have the gift to become one. The gift gives you a natural affinity for magic and draws magic to you. No doubt that is why the madrin sought shelter with you." Kieran fell silent. Something flickered at the edge of his vision and when he turned his head, he realized it was snowing again. "We should hurry, Master, or we will be caught in the blizzard."

Colwyn chuckled. "You're going to be a very powerful wizard, Kieran. Only the very strongest can manipulate the weather." "But I didn't!" "Did you not wish to protect the madrin?" "Well, yes, but"

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"You caused the storm. I felt you pull it toward you as you lay dying, right before the larger madrin arrived." Colwyn chuckled again. "A wizard close to death has tremendous power and a blizzard will make pursuit of the madrin impossible, even for a rogue wizard. Yes, you will be a very powerful wizard one day." Colwyn clucked to the horse and prodded it with his heels. The animal broke into a rolling canter. "Therefore, I am heeding your advice. We will stop at the inn in town to wait out the blizzard. Welcome to the world of wizard's magic, young Kieran." Kieran stared up at the snowfall as the horse trotted along the path. He was not sure he believed everything Colwyn had said, but he was glad he had saved the madrin's life. He closed his eyes and for a moment he could smell the earthy scent of the creature's fur. I will see the madrin again, he thought to himself, because the madrin is my friend. Chapter 2: Bright Isle "There it is, Kieran. What do you think?" Colwyn reined their horse to a stop on top of a bluff next to the high road overlooking a wide expanse of shimmering blue water. "Is this the sea?" "No," Colwyn chuckled. "It is White Lake." He pointed across the water toward a large island situated well off-shore. "That is Bright Isle, the location of the Wizard's Hall where you'll be trained." Kieran stared across the water at the distant island. He could see towers rising above the trees and long wharves sticking out into the water. "Is there a city there?" "I don't know that I'd call it a city," Colwyn replied, "but it is a good-sized town."

"Are they all wizards?"

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"Heavens, no! Most of the residents are just ordinary citizens, but they support the wizards." "Oh." Kieran stared at the island as Colwyn clucked to the horse and they resumed their journey. They had been traveling for almost two days and they were now farther from Lord Inchor's estate than Kieran had ever been. The blizzard that Colwyn said he had summoned had lasted until just after nightfall and the next morning had dawned clear and cold. Colwyn had not wasted any time in getting on the road. He had talked almost constantly as they traveled, telling Kieran about the Wizard's Hall, the people he would meet and the training he would undergo. Kieran had listened in silence. The sudden change in his status was somewhat overwhelming. "We'll take the ferry from White Shores out to the island," Colwyn said. "White Shores?" Kieran straightened up and looked past Colwyn's shoulder. Ahead of them, just appearing through the trees as the road curved toward it, was the royal city of White Shores. It spread out along the shore of White Lake and extended several miles inland. "I never thought I would see White Shores! It's even bigger than I thought it would be!" "It is a great city," Colwyn said. "You'll get a chance to see it during your training, but probably not right away." That was disappointing, but Kieran decided he could wait. He was already doing things he had never imagined. Even a chance to see White Shores in the future was more than he had ever expected in his life. "Kieran, let's do an exercise," Colwyn said abruptly. "Close your eyes, draw a deep breath, release it and then tell me the first thing that comes into your mind." It seemed like an odd request, but Kieran did as he was told. He closed his eyes and filled his lungs. He held the breath for a moment and then let it out slowly. As he blew the air out between slightly parted lips, a sudden vision of a boy close to his

own age with light brown hair and very large dark eyes appeared before his mind's eye. The boy was sitting in a bed propped up by pillows with a book in his lap. Kieran was not sure why, but he had the impression that the boy was unwell. "What did you see?"

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"I saw a boy with dark eyes sitting in a bed. I think he might be sick." "Interesting" "Does it mean something?" "I'm not sure. But I think the boy you saw is Prince Edouard." "But why would I see him? Does this mean I have the sight?" "It might. But more likely it means there is some fate that binds you to the prince." "But I am just an ordinary person! How could I be connected to the prince?" Colwyn laughed. "You are far from ordinary, Kieran! You have the wizard's gift and your life was saved by a madrin. There is no one in the world like you." "I don't feel any different," Kieran said quietly. "Humble beginnings are often the seeds of greatness." Kieran fell silent. So many of the things Colwyn said left him lost in thought, his mind teeming with unfamiliar ideas. In a way, it was not hard to believe he had the wizard's gift. Spell-casting had always come easily to him and he knew many more spells than he was willing to admit. But that did not necessarily make him special. Many people were born with the wizard's gift. But Colwyn was adamant that Kieran's encounter with the madrin made him very special, especially since he had been brought back from the dead. But now that the incident was well past, and with no scars to show for it, Kieran had trouble believing the attack had left him on the verge of death.

The road they followed was fairly well traveled and as they neared the city it became quite crowded, but there was always a space around them. No one, it seemed, wanted to get too close to a royal wizard. Colwyn did not seem to notice, but it made Kieran uncomfortable. But then Colwyn spoke.

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"You will have to get used to this, Kieran," he said quietly. "Wizards are respected but not loved. Expect obedience but not friendship." "Isn't it lonely?" "There are wizards aplenty," Colwyn chuckled. "You will have friends, Kieran, just not among the common people. You are not one of them anymore." Kieran looked at the other travelers. They were the sort of people he was used to: drovers, farmers, peddlers, beggars. Even the nobles on horseback and in carriages were something he was used to seeing. But what was new was the way even the nobles cast their eyes down when he looked at them. No one wanted to make eye contact with him. He sighed and turned his gaze on the city ahead. White Shores had at one time been a walled city, but centuries of peace had allowed it to spread far beyond those original confines. Businesses and residences sprang up on either side of the road as they neared the city and then side roads began branching out. Colwyn turned onto one of these side roads that skirted the edge of the city, heading toward the harbor. "We're in luck," Colwyn said. "The ferry is still at the dock." They rode into the noisy, crowded harbor area, weaving their way through wagons, oxen, draught horses and laborers. The ferry was a wide, shallow-draft boat with one stubby mast. Colwyn reined to a halt beside the gangway and waved at a toughlooking gray-haired man standing at the rail shouting instructions at sailors working the lines. "Welcome back, Lord Colwyn," the man interrupted his tirade to greet them. "Thank you, Captain Needa. How soon until you depart?"

"Just a few minutes, sir. We are waiting for a messenger from the palace."

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"Very good." Colwyn indicated Kieran should dismount and swung down beside him. "Have you room in the hold for my horse?" "Of course, sir." Captain Needa looked over his shoulder and shouted. "Fetch Lord Colwyn's horse on board at once!" "Aye, sir!" A young sailor dashed down the gangway to take the reins from Colwyn with a polite bob of his head. Relieved of his horse, Colwyn led Kieran up the gangway. "This is Master Kieran, Captain Needa. He is a new wizard-in-training." Captain Needa inclined his head to Kieran. "Welcome aboard, sir." Kieran nodded uncomfortably in response, but he did not know what to say. Never in his life had anyone called him "sir". Captain Needa was the sort of man whom he would have felt more comfortable addressing as "honored sir". "This way, Kieran." Colwyn led the way along the deck to the stern where there were a few cabins. They had not quite reached them when a woman stepped out of one of the cabins. She was dressed in a dark green brocade gown with snow white trim and her long honey blond hair was coiled into a neat braid that hung over her right shoulder. She smiled prettily at Colwyn. "How fortunate I am," she said smoothly. "I did not expect to run into you, Colwyn." Colwyn favored the woman with a peck on the cheek, but his return smile seemed forced. "It's good to see you, Asita." Asita turned curious blue eyes on Kieran. "Who is this? I thought you went to rescue a madrin." There was amusement in her voice and Colwyn's jaw tightened. "The madrin should be protected," Colwyn replied shortly. "Of course," Asita replied, somewhat dismissively. "So who is your companion?"

"A gifted one I found while I was out." "A wizardling?" Asita's eyes widened excitedly.

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Kieran frowned slightly. He had never heard the term "wizardling" before and he was not sure he liked it. It sounded vaguely insulting. "A wizard-in-training," Colwyn corrected firmly. His irritated tone made it plain that he did consider the term insulting. Asita stepped closer and stared into Kieran's face. "He doesn't look like much. Are you sure he's gifted?" "I'm sure," Colwyn growled. "Come, Kieran, I'm tired after our long ride." With just the barest nod for Asita, Colwyn entered one of the cabins. He closed the door firmly behind Kieran so Asita could not join them. The small cabin had a rectangular table with chairs at each end and two short benches on the longer sides. There was a round porthole in the rear wall. "Have a seat, Kieran. Captain Needa will have someone bring us refreshments once we get underway." Kieran sat down in one of the chairs and folded his hands in front of him. "Who is that woman?" "A wizard." Colwyn took a seat in the other chair. "Her skills are moderate, but she comes from a very prominent family so she fancies herself better than everyone else. She also has a strong attachment to me for some reason." Colwyn stroked his fingers through his hair and gazed out the porthole. "You needn't worry about her, though. She has no interest in anyone common-born." Kieran nodded slightly to himself. Although Colwyn had not said anything about it, his statement implied that he was not common-born, which confirmed Kieran's impression based on Colwyn's manners and speech. "Are there many common-born wizards?" "Quite a few, actually, but not many end up as royal wizards. Most become trade wizards, like that fellow who worked for Lord Machura." "Did you know him?"

"No. Wizards are divided into classes during training based on their skill level and we seldom socialize with wizards outside our class."

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Kieran paused for a moment, not sure if he should ask his next question. But he was desperately curious and now that they were somewhat on the topic, it seemed like a good time to bring it up. "Master Colwyn, when we first met, you mentioned rogue wizards. Who are they?" Colwyn frowned. "Wizards who choose not to adhere to our rules. Mostly, they are people who never trained at the Wizard's Hall, but received their tutelage from another rogue wizard. They can be very dangerous because they are not afraid to use their abilities for any reason. Catching and destroying rogue wizards is one of the chief duties of a royal wizard." "Destroying?" Kieran questioned, astonished. "You don't just condition them?" "You can only condition people who are inwardly afraid of their powers. The conditioning acts on that fear. Rogue wizards fear nothing." Colwyn leaned forward and fixed his eyes on Kieran. "That is what makes them so powerful. They are not afraid to try any spell. And they are not afraid of royal wizards. The power of a madrin would make such a wizard nearly impossible to kill. Keeping rogue wizards in check is what has preserved the peace for so long in this kingdom." A humorless smile touched Colwyn's lips. "But that is also why I did not hesitate to bring you with me as soon as I recognized your gift. Rogue wizards also look for people like you to train. Quite often, people brought to us for conditioning have been trained by rogue wizards. We are fortunate that those they find are usually too weak to amount to much. But someone like you" Kieran blinked in alarm. He thought of the old woman from whom he had learned most of the spells he knew when he was younger. She had been delighted by his quick wit and the ease with which he learned, but she had warned him that he must never tell anyone how much magic he knew. "The royal wizards will get you," she had rasped in her harsh whisper. "But magic should belong to anyone with the skill to learn it and the will to use it." Kieran had never thought of her as a wizard, just an old woman

who knew more about magic than most people. But now Colwyn made him wonder if she might have been one of these rogue wizards. He shifted uncomfortably.

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"The woman who taught me magic" Kieran began nervously, "she told me never to talk about it and to only use small spells in front of others." "She was probably a hedge wizard." "A what?" Kieran asked in confusion. How many different terms for wizards would Colwyn come up with? "A hedge wizard." Colwyn chuckled at the confusion on Kieran's face. "That's what we call the ones who wash out at the Wizard's Hall. They are wizards-in-training who never advance to full wizards, for one reason or another. When they are dismissed from the Hall, they receive light conditioning to keep them from using their abilities openly. It is to help them assimilate back into society. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for hedge wizards to discover and train gifted youngsters like you. Such youths make up the bulk of the people we end up having to condition." A sudden, frightening thought struck Kieran. "Am I going to be conditioned?" Colwyn shook his head slowly. "No." "But That storm You said I caused it." "You did. But you were on the verge of death when you cast that spell. Do you know how you did it?" Kieran thought about that. Quite honestly, he still did not remember casting a spell to summon a storm. He knew a spell that caused dust devils, the little swirls of wind that kicked up dust and blew up ladies skirts, but nothing that would cause a storm of the magnitude that had struck that day. He shook his head. "Ma Bricker never taught me a spell to cause storms." "But I imagine you know a spell to make the wind blow." "Yes"

"Large spells are just extensions of small ones, extended and combined through a greater application of power. You probably also know spells to make clouds form and to make the air warmer or colder in small areas. That combination of spells will create a storm. The more power applied to the spell, the larger the storm. How many spells did Ma Bricker teach you?" Kieran sat back and stared at Colwyn. "Dozens."

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Colwyn chuckled softly. "I bet she taught you every spell she learned as a wizard-in-training. Even if she washed out during the first year, she would still have learned dozens of minor spells, which serve as the foundation for larger spells taught in subsequent years. It is likely that you will be able to place out of the first year of training because of her teaching." "Place out?" Kieran was dumbfounded. "There's no point in wasting your time teaching you something you already know. I'll arrange to have you tested as soon as we arrive." There was a sharp knock on the door. "Come in!" The young sailor who had taken Colwyn's horse opened the door, carefully balancing a cloth-covered tray against his hip. "Here are refreshments for you, sir." He set the tray carefully on the table and removed the cloth to reveal bread, cheese, cold roast chicken and tea. "Will you need anything else, sir?" "No, this is fine, thank you." Colwyn poured the tea as the sailor left. "Captain Needa knows my tastes," he remarked with a smile. "Help yourself." They consumed the food in silence. Kieran's mind was churning. He was just starting to realize how little he knew about wizards. Knowing nothing of how they were trained, it had not occurred to him that the assortment of little spells Ma Bricker had taught him were the same ones new wizards learned. The gentle rocking of the ferry grew stronger as it moved out onto the lake. The sound of waves slapping against the hull carried through the porthole. "Is it all right if I go out on deck?" Kieran asked finally.

"Certainly."

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Kieran quickly left the cabin and looked around before moving to stand at the rail. They were already well out on the lake and he had a sweeping view of the harbor at White Shores falling away behind them. He and Colwyn had approached the city from the south, where the land was flatter and more open. To the north, rumpled hills spilled down to the shore of the lake and the city climbed up over the folds. Many fine large houses were visible on the bluffs above the water, where the views were probably spectacular. "That is my home there," Asita spoke at his elbow and Kieran started. She stretched out her long slender arm and pointed at a snow white mansion with many windows close to the water at the foot of a sweeping green slope. "It looks very nice, my lady," Kieran answered carefully. "It is one of the finest homes in the city." She offered him a gracious smile. "Where are you from?" "I grew up on the estate of Lord Inchor, my lady." "I don't know him. He must be a minor nobleman." "Lord Inchor dislikes travel, my lady. He seldom leaves the estate." That seemed like a safe response to Kieran. He had no idea what might distinguish a minor nobleman from any other and he refused to make such a judgment about his former master. "I suppose it's possible I just never met him." She turned to look at Kieran, clasping the rail with one elegant, gloved hand. "So tell me, what did you do to convince Colwyn you're gifted?" Kieran was not sure how much he wanted to tell her. Colwyn had not told him he needed to keep secret what had happened, but Kieran did not like the way she was studying him, like a spider watching her prey. He cleared his throat. "I touched a madrin," he said slowly. His answer was clearly not what she had expected. Stark surprise sprang up on her face before she could cover it with a cool,

sophisticated expression. "A madrin? Really? However did that happen?"

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"He prevented a nobleman from killing the creature," Colwyn snapped sharply from behind them. Asita whirled around, her expression momentarily angry. "You say that like only a nobleman would be so bold. You forget yourself." "No, I do not forget the accident of my birth, Lady Mederlane," Colwyn replied coldly. "Nor do I forget that every madrin that has been killed in the past fifty years was killed by someone of noble birth. In fact, I recall that your own father killed one fifteen years ago." Asita's eyes narrowed. "That animal attacked his hunting party. He had no choice." "That's what he says, but I have never heard what they were hunting for originally." "You are questioning my father?" Asita growled. "I question anyone who kills a madrin," Colwyn snapped back. "The creatures are reclusive. The madrin he killed was not a cub. He had to have invaded its territory." Asita flushed angrily. "Since I understand how dedicated you are to the protection of these creatures," she said with stiff dignity, "I will overlook your statements impugning my father's reputation. Good day, sir." She turned and marched toward the cabins. Colwyn snorted at her retreating back. "This is why I don't understand her fascination for me. This is not the first time I have questioned her father's motivation." "Did he keep the madrin's magic?" Kieran asked quietly. "Of course he did!" Colwyn replied, still angry. "His family wizard skinned it and boiled the creature's bones before they returned from that so-called hunting trip. He still wears the cloak made from its fur."

"Does it really protect the wearer from harm?"

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"No." Colwyn leaned on the rail. "It's waterproof and very warm, but not impenetrable. But as I told you, the bones have unequaled healing properties. He made a huge profit selling the powder to other noblemen." Colwyn turned to look at the approaching island, visible across the far rail as the boat tacked across the wind. "You'll find that my opinions about madrin are in the minority at the Wizard's Hall. In truth, I am hoping that what happened to you will prove that the creatures are intelligent and deserve to be protected." "I think you're right about them, Master Colwyn," Kieran said firmly. "I'm sure the baby madrin understood me." Colwyn sighed. "You have no idea how much I envy you, Kieran. In all the years I've spent studying the madrin, I've never even come close to touching one." Kieran gazed across the water at the town below the towers of the Wizard's Hall. Three stone docks extended out from a long stone quay running across the face of the town. Cobblestone streets climbed up from the docks and wound between whitewashed houses with thatch roofs. "The town is called Lakes End because men used to believe it was too dangerous to sail beyond the island," Colwyn said. "Of course, nowadays people sail all over the lake." Colwyn turned to Kieran and clasped his shoulder. "When we get to the island, let me do the talking at first. I plan to take you straight to Lord Gavilan, who is the master of the Wizard's Hall. Normally, new wizards-intraining are turned over to Mistress Divwall, who is in charge of the academy, but I think Lord Gavilan will want to hear about your interaction with the madrin first hand. So I will try to arrange for you to meet both of them right away. After that, I don't know how much time you'll get to spend with me. I am not an instructor, so I normally don't have much interaction with trainees." At Kieran's worried look, Colwyn smiled. "You'll do fine, Kieran. Trust yourself and you will have nothing to worry about." Kieran returned his smile but the worry did not leave him. His entire life had been spent in the service of Lord Inchor. Obeying others and doing his chores was the life he knew. Learning magic

with Ma Bricker in his spare time had been a pleasant diversion from his hard life. Now, learning magic would be his primary duty. He gazed up at the imposing towers of the Wizard's Hall and wondered what was waiting for him there. Chapter 3: Prince Edouard

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Edouard flinched as the maid drew back his curtains, allowing the bright morning sunlight to flood into his room. As usual, he had not slept well and the arrival of dawn found him no more rested than the previous nightfall. "Good morning, Your Highness!" the maid greeted him cheerfully. "How do you feel today?" Edouard sat up slowly. "A little better, thank you." It was a lie, of course. He never felt any better, but telling his servants that only made them feel bad. They worried about him too much, but their affection for him was one of the few things that made his life bearable. "Would you like some tea, Your Highness?" "Yes, please." "Very good. I'll tell the doctor you're awake." Edouard managed a smile in response, even though seeing Doctor Sefrin was the last thing he wanted. Doctor Sefrin's ministrations and potions did nothing to improve Edouard's health. Most of the time, they made him feel worse. What Edouard wanted most was to be left alone, but as the Royal Physician, Doctor Sefrin seemed to take it personally that Edouard refused to get better. Edouard pushed the bedclothes down with a sigh and swung his slender legs over the side. "One moment, Your Highness," Doctor Sefrin bustled into the room. "Let me examine you before you rise." "I'm fine, Doctor," Edouard replied with a faint sigh. "I just want to relieve myself." Almost immediately, one of the myriad servants who always seemed to be in his room appeared beside the bed holding his chamber pot. Edouard took it from him and

frowned at the doctor as he emptied his bladder into the pot. "I suppose you'll want this for some strange test."

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Doctor Sefrin folded his arms. "Many things can be determined about the health of an individual by examining his fluids," he said stiffly. "Fine." Edouard held out the chamber pot. "Take it and do what you need to. I require no further examination." "But Your Highness, a daily physical examination is necessary! How can I report on your health to His Majesty if I have not examined you?" Edouard sighed. He hated when the doctor brought his father into it. King Heston was even more fixated on Edouard's health than the doctor. Edouard suspected his father and the doctor of secretly keeping charts of how much urine he produced each day. He sighed in resignation. "Very well, but please be brief." Edouard endured the doctor's examination in silence. He doubted there was anything new to be discovered, beyond the fact that he had probably lost a little more weight. He tried his best to eat regularly, but food simply did not appeal to him most of the time. When he completed his examination, Doctor Sefrin stepped back with a frown. "Have you been eating, Your Highness?" "As much as I can." "That is not enough. I will proscribe a stomach powder to facilitate digestion." Edouard had to bite his tongue to keep the sharp retort that sprang to his lips from escaping. He doubted the doctor's potion would make the food smell any more appetizing. He remained silent until after the doctor was gone and the maid had returned with his tea. She had also brought toast, jam and a soft-boiled egg. "I know you did not ask for breakfast, Your Highness," she said apologetically, "but I thought"

"It's fine," Edouard murmured. Maybe if he ate his breakfast, the doctor would not insist on him taking the stomach powder later. He could only hope. -o-o-o-oKieran stared out the tall narrow window of his room high in one of the towers in the Wizard's Hall. The sun had just risen, but it was already much later than Kieran was accustomed to rising. But the view from his room was breathtaking and Kieran was held spellbound. Directly below him was a wide courtyard with a fountain and large pots filled with flowering shrubs and lacy ferns. Farther out, neatly manicured gardens interspersed smooth green lawns, leading to thicker forests that grew progressively wilder as they swept down to the shore. Across the glittering blue water of the lake, the city of White Shores was visible. Colwyn had wanted to arrange a meeting with Lord Gavilan and Lady Divwall right away the afternoon he and Kieran had arrived, but both wizards had been too busy to interrupt whatever they were doing to meet with a mere wizardling, no matter how important Colwyn thought he might be, so Colwyn had been told to find a place for him and get him settled. Lord Tomlin, who served as quartermaster at the Wizard's Hall, had been rather disdainful of Kieran's low-born status, so Kieran had expected unimpressive quarters. Indeed, at first glance, the room was about what he had thought it would be. There was a narrow bed, a trunk for his clothes, a washstand, pitcher and basin, and a small writing desk and chair. Subsequently, he was shocked when he awoke that morning and saw the view. It had been dark and the shutters closed when Colwyn had brought him to the room the night before. Now, dressed and ready to face the day, Kieran was reluctant to leave. He was still staring out the window when Colwyn arrived to collect him. "Impressed?" Colwyn chuckled. He stopped next to Kieran and looked out. "It's amazing!" Kieran exclaimed. "Why would they give such a nice room to someone like me?" "Because it's inconvenient," Colwyn said matter-of-factly. "It's a long walk from here to the classrooms. Or to the privies, for that

30

matter." Colwyn stepped away from the window and folded his arms. "Nobles dislike exerting themselves unnecessarily, so these high rooms in the towers are reserved for low-born trainees. Better quality students stay in lower rooms in the towers or in the residential wings of the main building. The view is less important to them than their comfort." "Well, I like the view." Kieran turned away from the window reluctantly. "So what happens today? Will I meet with Lady Divwall?" "Yes. I spoke to her this morning and she wants to meet you after breakfast. There are no other new students in the Hall right now so it will just be you. I'll take you to the dining hall." They left Kieran's room and proceeded down the short hallway to the stairs. "I'll have to leave you once we get there," Colwyn continued. "Trainees and wizards eat at separate tables. But I expect another student will take you in hand when we get there. Normally, new trainees are assigned a more senior student as a guide to help them learn their way around." It was quite a long walk from his room to the dining hall, but when they arrived at the wide doors leading into the cavernous hall, Kieran almost wished it was farther. Despite its size, the room felt crowded. Men and women, boys and girls, filled the room. Most of the younger people sat at long rectangular tables with benches on either side that were clustered on the right hand side of the room. Smaller square tables and some larger round one were on the left. A wide aisle down the middle of the room separated the younger people at the long tables from their elders. As soon as they entered, Asita waved at them from one of the round tables. "Colwyn, come sit with us!" she called. Colwyn sighed. "Good luck, Kieran." He headed toward Asita with a resigned look on his face. Kieran turned toward the long tables. Several of the trainees were staring at him, but one rather short boy with dark blond hair and very blue eyes hopped to his feet and hurried toward Kieran. "Are you the new trainee?"

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"Yes."

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The boy smiled brightly. The lines around his mouth and eyes showed that this was his most common expression. "I'm Tanaka Trasker. Most people call me Tank. I've been assigned to look after you." Tank laughed lightly. "Don't take it personally, but they said you're common-born, so none of the high-borns would take you. My father's just a merchant, so I don't care about that kind of stuff." "I don't mind," Kieran answered with a faint smile. Tank's cheerfulness was infectious. "I used to be a servant. I don't think I'd feel comfortable around someone of noble birth." "Well, you'll get over that if you test out high. Wizard ranking matters more than birth around here." Tank led the way back to where he had been sitting. "What's your name?" "Kieran." "That's it? No surname?" Tank stopped and stared at him in surprise. Kieran shifted uncomfortably. "My parent's died when I was little. No one ever told me what my surname was." "And you didn't ask?" a girl with long dark hair sniffed, "How stupid." "I was a servant on a gentleman's estate," Kieran said stiffly. "Everyone knew who I was. Having a second name didn't seem particularly important." "That sounds rather conceited for a mere servant," the girl replied archly. "Shut up, Estelle," Tank said. "If he tests out higher than you, you'll wish you'd kept your mouth shut." "Someone with no background won't test out higher than me!" Estelle snarled. She glared at Kieran. "He's nobody. My father and grandmother are both royal wizards!"

"Yeah, yeah, and my daddy sells wool to dyers." Tank waved a hand dismissively. "But I still tested higher than you. Come on, Kieran, let's sit somewhere else." Tank led the way to another table, leaving Estelle to glare after them angrily. "Don't mind her," Tank said cheerfully as they sat. "Her skills are pretty paltry and she hates it, what with her lineage and all. She probably won't make royal wizard and will be an embarrassment to her family." "You mean being the daughter of a royal wizard won't automatically qualify her as one?" Kieran asked in surprise. "Nope. Only your ranking and skill can get you selected as a royal wizard. That's why it's so important to test out high. They won't even bother to try teaching you things they think are beyond your skill level." Kieran absorbed this news in silence. He had never imagined that the lives of wizards would be so complicated. He focused his attention on breakfast. Servants waited on both the wizards and the trainees, bringing food and drink to the tables and clearing away used dishes. Kieran accepted a bowl of porridge and a cup of tea from an elderly woman. Beside him, Tank dug into a big plate of fried eggs, sausages, sardines, toast and grilled tomatoes. "Is that all you're eating?" Tank demanded, pointing at Kieran's bowl with his fork. "Try one of my sausages. They're delicious!" "I'm not used to eating much first thing in the morning," Kieran confessed. "You'd better get over that," Tank said. "Morning classes are brutal. You'll need the energy. Eat up." Kieran took Tank's advice and snagged a few sausages and tomatoes. He loved grilled tomatoes, especially cut in half with melted cheese and bread crumbs on top, but it was a delicacy he seldom got to enjoy at Lord Inchor's estate. "I'm supposed to take you to Lady Divwall after breakfast," Tank said around a mouthful of food. "Once you get tested and we know what class you'll be in, I'll show you around. There really

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isn't that much to the place, even though it looks big. This afternoon, if there's time, I'll show you around town. We do get a little free time and there are a few good shops, if you have any money to spend." "I don't."

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"You will." Tank grinned. "We wizards-in-training get a small allowance. It's not much, but if you hoard it, you can afford to buy something nice every now and then. You finished? We should go. You don't want to start off on the wrong foot with Lady Divwall." Tank shoved a last few morsels of food into his mouth and stood up. Kieran followed suit. Tank continued to chatter good-naturedly as they left the dining hall. "The classrooms are all down that way. The administrative offices are in a separate wing, which is also the housing wing for the royal wizards. They all have rooms there, even if they don't live full-time on Bright Isle. The instructors live in the housing wing, too." "Are the instructors royal wizards?" "Not all of them. You don't have to be a royal wizard to teach in the Wizard's Hall, but you have to be an expert in the field you're instructing. I'm hoping to be an instructor one day." Tank bounced on his toes excitedly in mid-stride. "I love living on Bright Isle. I never want to leave." He stopped abruptly in front of a dark-paneled door. "Here we are. I'll wait outside." He blinked expectantly at Kieran. Kieran mustered up his courage and rapped sharply on the door. "Come in!" a woman's voice called firmly from inside. Tank offered him an encouraging smile as Kieran opened the door and stepped in. Lady Divwall was tall. She towered a full head taller than Kieran. She gazed down at him from her greater vantage point with slightly pursed lips and a small wrinkle between her brows. Her thick graying hair was braided into a neat plait that hung over one shoulder and dangled well past her waist. She was dressed in

a simple gown of dark blue wool and had an embroidered shawl wrapped around her shoulders.

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"Well, you're not much to look at, are you?" Lady Divwall announced in a rich contralto voice. "Shut the door and come stand here where I can look at you properly." She pointed to a spot on the floor and then moved to sit down in a worn wooden chair with a stuffed cushion on the seat. Kieran did as he was told and moved to stand on the indicated spot. He returned Lady Divwall's stare nervously. "Don't fret, boy. I shan't eat you." Lady Divwall studied him with an intent gaze. "I've already heard a little bit about you from Lord Colwyn. He said you were struck down by a sword and a madrin healed your wound by licking it." "Yes, my lady." "Can you show me the scar?" "I can show you where I was struck, but there is no scar." "Oh really?" Lady Divwall sat back. "Why then does Colwyn believe you were injured?" "My shirt and cloak were sliced nearly in two and soaked with blood." Kieran paused. Lady Divwall did not look like she disbelieved him, but neither did she appear ready to admit his story was completely true. "My memory of the event is still clear, my lady. The sword severed my spine. I lost all feeling below my arms. I fell to the ground and could not move. Then the madrin licked my back and I could feel again. When I looked, the wound was gone." Lady Divwall sat forward again, her eyes pinned sharply on his face. "Colwyn said there were two madrin." "Yes, a baby and its parent. I was protecting the baby when I was struck." "I see," Lady Divwall chuckled. "No wonder you made such an impression on Colwyn. His love of those creatures is so great it sometimes clouds his judgment. But I think perhaps in your case,

he saw clearly." Then her tone sharpened abruptly. "What magic do you know, boy?"

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Kieran started. "I know several spells to perform minor magic, like creating witch light and purifying water." "Who taught you?" "An old woman called Ma Bricker. She lived in a shack on the edge of my master's estate. When I was younger, I would spend my free time there and she taught me several spells." "Bricker? I don't know the name. You say she was old?" "Yes, very old. She died a few years ago." "Show me your witch light." Kieran held out his hand and whispered the spell to create the witch light. When the flicker of golden light formed above his palm, he looked up at Lady Divwall. "Is that as large as you can make it?" "No, my lady." Kieran made the light bigger, until a ball the size of a man's head glowed brightly in the air above his outstretched hand. "If I make it bigger than this, it starts to thin." "Can you change the color?" Kieran made the light glow blue. At Lady Divwall's satisfied smile, he put a little more effort into it and made the light coruscate through a rainbow of colors. Ma Bricker had been very proud of him when he showed her that trick. Lady Divwall jumped to her feet. "Stop that at once!" Startled, Kieran instantly extinguished the light. "When did you learn to do that? Did this Ma Bricker teach you that?" Lady Divwall stepped toward him, her face tight with concern.

"I taught myself to do this right after Ma Bricker showed me how to make the color change." Kieran swallowed nervously. "Did I do something wrong?"

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"That spell" Lady Divwall began slowly. "That spell is very similar to the one used to make witch light generate heat. Such a spell might be used to start fires." Kieran went pale. He immediately dropped to one knee and bowed his head. "I did not know, honored mistress! Please forgive me! I won't do it again!" Kieran wanted to kick himself. Ever since Ma Bricker had started teaching him magic, he had been careful to hide what he knew so people would not summon the royal wizards. Now he had demonstrated his abilities in front of one. How foolish! He flinched when Lady Divwall's hand came to rest on the top of his head. "I did not mean to do anything dangerous, my lady," he whispered. "I know." Lady Divwall lowered herself slowly to one knee and raised his chin with her hand so he had to look into her wide gray eyes. "Did you truly teach yourself to do this?" "Yes." Kieran licked his lips. "Now I see why Colwyn was so anxious to have you tested. We must determine the full range of your knowledge and abilities. This requires more extensive testing than the standard assessment test. I will arrange for you to be tested this afternoon. In the meantime, you are to perform no magic whatsoever, is that clear?" "Yes, my lady." "I imagine young Tank is still waiting for you outside. Go and let him show you around. You will be summoned when we are ready to begin." Kieran stood up and offered his hand to Lady Divwall. She accepted and allowed him to help her to his feet, which made him realize that she was probably much older than she appeared. As she resumed her seat, she favored him with a warm smile. "You mustn't be afraid, Kieran. Now that you are here, we will teach you to use your abilities properly. Henceforth, you are a wizard-

in-training on Bright Isle. Magic is now rightly your purview. You no longer need fear royal wizards. You are on your way to becoming one." -o-o-o-o-

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Despite his weakness, Edouard preferred to get dressed each morning and move to his sitting room for the day. He usually did not leave his suite because the exertion of walking very far exhausted him, but he hated spending the day in bed. That really made him feel like an invalid. So he moved to the couch in his sitting room and let his servants tuck warm blankets around him and prop pillows behind his back. It was almost like still being in bed. But here all of his books and papers were within easy reach, stacked up on the table in front of the couch. Edouard supposed it was a good thing that he loved to read and enjoyed scholarship, because few other pursuits were left to shutins like himself. He studied every text book he could get his hands on and pestered his tutors constantly to bring him new ones. He had already written several theses on a variety of topics and, at fourteen, was considered one of the most intelligent and best educated people in the kingdom. But that only made people whisper bitterly about the fact that he would never be king. No one expected him to live that long. Not even Edouard expected to live that long. But he had come to terms with his disappointment. His life could have been worse. "Prince Edouard, Doctor Sefrin said it is time to take the stomach powder." Edouard sighed. One of his two body servants, Justus, stood beside him, presenting the medication in a dainty glass cup on a silver plate. "Making it look pretty won't make it work any better." Justus smiled slightly. "I thought it might make it more palatable." Edouard made a face. "I don't think anything can improve the taste of Doctor Sefrin's concoctions." He took the cup and held it briefly under his nose. "At least it doesn't reek like the last drug." He heaved a sigh and lifted the cup to his lips. "I suppose it can't

be helped" He swallowed the medicine quickly and made a face. "Good lord, that tastes awful!"

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"I'll fetch you some water." Justus stepped to the sideboard and quickly poured Edouard a glass of water. "I'm sorry, my lord, I should have had this ready." He brought the glass to Edouard, who quickly drink it. "Don't worry about it, Justus," Edouard said. "After all these years, I've gotten used to foul tasting things." He handed the glass back. Justus was only ten years his senior, but sometimes he seemed much older. Edouard's other body servant, Landon, was past thirty and had been tending Edouard since he outgrew his wet nurse. Between the two of them, Justus and Landon never left Edouard alone. Edouard appreciated their company. They were the only ones whom he would honestly tell how he really felt. "I don't know why Sefrin thinks that will make it easier to eat. I feel queasy now." "Do you need a bowl?" Justus asked anxiously. "I don't think so. Anyway," Edouard snorted, "there's nothing in my stomach to heave up. I barely managed to swallow a mouthful of my breakfast this morning." "You need to eat, my lord. You are getting much too thin." "I know. Bring me clear broth for lunch. I have better success with that." "Yes, my lord. Your father asked earlier if you would dine with him today." "I hate eating in front of my father!" Edouard exclaimed. "He watches every morsel that goes into my mouth. He frets so much it ruins what little appetite I have." "He cares very much for you, my lord." Edouard rested his face in his hands and let out a long, heartfelt sigh. "Tell him yes, I'll eat with him."

"Very good, my lord." "But say that I will come to his room."

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"My lord?" Justus' surprised look reminded Edouard how long it had been since the last time he had left his rooms. "I hate it when he comes here," Edouard muttered, feeling petulant, "he always gets so depressed. Maybe he will be more distracted elsewhere." "As you wish, my lord. I'll have Landon bring the rolling chair." "No." Edouard shook his head. "I would prefer for you to carry me. That chair makes people look at me like I'm half-dead." Justus smiled. "As you command, Highness." Chapter 4: Training Kieran was exhausted. The extensive testing Lady Divwall arranged for him lasted all afternoon and well into the evening. None of the nine instructors attending and administering the test seemed inclined to stop once they began. It had started with simple questions regarding the spells he knew, but progressed from there to how he was able to come up with new spells on his own. Colwyn was allowed to observe the test, but since he was not an instructor, he was not allowed to participate. Before the test began through, he had drawn Kieran aside and quietly told him to be completely honest and hold nothing back. "Deceit will gain you nothing here, Kieran," Colwyn had murmured into his ear. "They need to understand everything you know. They will not fault you for providing answers that go beyond the questions." Performing magic on demand did not tire Kieran. What wore him out was all the talking. In his position at Lord Inchor's estate, conversation was not something anyone ever demanded of him. He had talked to the other servants, but Kieran had never been someone to lead the conversation. He talked when he was spoken to. But the wizards apparently were prepared to listen to him speak all night, prompting him for more when his words faltered and then starting new lines of questioning when he seemed to

have emptied himself on the current topic. When they finally stopped and allowed him to fall silent, he hung his head, his shoulders slumped and trembling. "Thank you, Kieran," Lady Divwall said quietly. "You have done very well. You will be informed of the results of the test tomorrow. I'm afraid you've missed dinner, but the kitchen will have kept something warm for you. Colwyn, would you please escort Kieran to the dining hall and then take him back to his room?" "Yes, my lady." Colwyn took Kieran gently by the arm and led him from the room. Once the door had closed behind them, he chuckled softly. "Well done, Kieran! I knew I had found something special when I first set eyes on you and what I saw in there today proved me right." "Do you think I passed their test?" "Passed it?" Colwyn threw his head back and laughed. "Kieran, you passed the moment Lady Divwall realized you needed a skills assessment rather than a simple aptitude test. What they were doing in there was determining what class to put you in." "What class?" Kieran shook his head in confusion, knowing he sounded like a simpleton. "New students are ranked by how likely it is they will become royal wizards, based on an aptitude test they are given when they arrive," Colwyn said. "At the end of each year of training, students are given a skills assessment test to determine if they are ready to move on to the next level of training. A student gets three tries to pass an assessment test. If they fail all three times, they wash out. But once they pass, they advance to the next level and move into a new class. The assessment tests are geared toward a student's general aptitude, however. So if a student fails one assessment test, he or she can ask to be tested at a lower level. If they pass at that level, their ranking drops but they can remain at the academy and continue to study. In some cases, an instructor may recommend that a student be dropped in rank, rather than have him wash out, to keep him at the academy." "So the test I was just given"

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"Was an assessment test," Colwyn concluded. "Although it's been a while since I was last tested, I would say at the end they were asking you to perform magic and discuss concepts that a third year student should now." "Third year?" Kieran exclaimed. "But I only studied with Ma Bricker for a little over a year!" Colwyn put an arm around Kieran's shoulders. "You have a natural aptitude for magic, Kieran. It is very unusual for someone with very little training to be able to construct their own spells, but you do it routinely. That particular ability is something students start learning in their second year when they are on the track to become royal wizards, but they don't really start using it until the third year." Kieran accepted Colwyn's explanation in silence. He was tired of talking, yet he still had so much to learn. They arrived in the dining hall to find it dark and apparently empty, but as soon as they entered, a girl sitting on a bench near the door to the kitchen hopped to her feet and bobbed them a quick curtsy. "I was told to wait for you," she exclaimed quickly. "Please be seated and I'll be right back with your dinner." She scurried away through the kitchen door. Kieran chose a seat at a long table not far from the kitchen so the girl wouldn't have to walk too far with his food. Although he had never waited table at Lord Inchor's estate, he remembered hearing the serving girls complain about lugging the heavy trays back and forth when there was company and Lord Inchor used the large dining room, which was farther from the kitchen than the smaller dining room he normally used. Colwyn sat down beside him. "Feeling a little overwhelmed?" Kieran nodded. "That is understandable. Being dragged from the life one knows and dropped among strangers would be difficult for anyone. I will do what I can to help you, though." He smiled warmly. "It's the least I can do for a fellow believer where the madrin are concerned."

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Kieran smiled faintly at the sudden memory of the madrin's warm nose bumping against his face as he carried it home on the night of the snowstorm. Then the girl returned with his dinner and Kieran's smile widened when she set a bowl of stew in front of him. There was bread too and Kieran crumbled it into the stew. "This is what I had the night I found the madrin," he told Colwyn. "We shared my dinner and fell asleep in my bed." He glanced at the dark-haired wizard. "The madrin aren't savage. They eat the same things we do." Colwyn nodded slowly. "I suspected as much. I had the opportunity once to briefly examine the jawbone of an adult madrin and the teeth made me suspect it was omnivorous." Colwyn fell silent and his eyes lost focus. Kieran wandered if he was thinking about the madrin whose jawbone he had held. He finished his meal in silence. It was quiet in the tower when they returned to Kieran's room. Someone had closed his shutters, which he remembered leaving open, and a small, covered coal pot sat in the corner near the foot of the bed, radiating a ruddy warmth. "I see the maids have been here," Colwyn said. "These tower rooms get cold since they have no fireplaces, so the maids bring up those coal pots on cold nights. If it's not warm enough, don't be ashamed to ask for another one, or extra blankets. You can't learn properly if you get sick from the cold." Kieran nodded absently. He was used to being cold, so he doubted the coolness of the room would bother him. Colwyn chuckled. "I can see that what you really need right now is sleep. Tomorrow, your life as a wizard-in-training really begins. Rest well. I may not see you in the morning, so I'll wish you good luck now." "Thank you, Master Colwyn," Kieran replied gravely, but he had to stifle a yawn. His bed looked incredibly inviting. "Good night, Kieran."

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Colwyn closed the door behind him and Kieran turned to the bed, finally allowing his yawn to escape. He sank down on the edge of the bed, pulled off his boots and crawled under the blankets without bothering to remove anything else. In moments, he was sound asleep. -o-o-o-o-oKing Heston watched nervously as Edouard's muscular servant carefully lifted him from his seat at the table. He hated it that Edouard refused to use the rolling chair, but no amount of reasoned argument would sway him. And whenever Heston tried to persuade Edouard to do something the prince really did not want to, Edouard just seemed to wither with exhaustion and Heston would give in before he did. So Heston could do nothing but watch as the servant cradled Edouard gently against his chest and carried him away. For a moment, Heston felt a twinge of jealousy. He had never held his son like that. When they were gone, Heston turned to Imbario, his Royal Wizard. "Lord Imbario, does it seem to you that Edouard has gotten weaker?" "Prince Edouard appears to have lost weight since I last saw him," Imbario replied gravely. "But I have no doubt that Doctor Sefrin is doing all he can. I believe he prescribed a new stomach powder for the prince today to improve his digestion." "But he barely touched his food!" Heston exclaimed. He gestured at the table where servants were still clearing the dishes. "He scarcely ate any of his soup and he did not touch his bread at all! At this rate, he will waste away to nothing and I will lose him!" "We must trust in Doctor Sefrin, Sire. He is the finest doctor in the kingdom. If he cannot help the prince, I fear nothing can be done for him at all." Heston clenched his fists. That was exactly the sort of talk he hated hearing the most. He knew there was probably no better doctor in the kingdom them Sefrin and that was probably the most dismaying thing of all. If Sefrin's ministrations did not help Edouard, the boy really was doomed.

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"I don't understand why you can do nothing, Imbario," Heston growled. "What use is a Royal Wizard who cannot ensure the succession of my bloodline?" "We have had this discussion before, Your Majesty," Imbario said with a faint sigh. "The human body is much too fragile a creation for the gross application of magic. Magic can destroy life, but it cannot create it. This is one of the fundamental principles of magic. We must rely upon the science of medicine to save Prince Edouard's life." "Medicine which has so far shown no sign of working!" Heston shouted. "And now I am blamed for choosing a wife too sickly to survive childbirth though she was chosen for me by my father, who took too long to conceive and then produced a child as sickly as she was." "It is unfortunate the child survived the birth that claimed his mother's life," Imbario said calmly, his expression flat. "Had he died then, you might have remarried right away and fathered another child before the accident." A surge of fury momentarily stifled Heston's ability to respond. Imbario's heartless assessment of his predicament left him speechless with outrage. The riding accident that had left Heston sterile, following so closely on the heels of his wife's death, had left him with the feeling that some divine entity had determined it was time for his family's reign to end, despite the centuries of peace that had transpired under their stewardship. But Heston refused to give in. He would do what he had to in order to save Edouard's life. That was all that mattered. "You are my Royal Wizard, Imbario," Heston snarled. "I expect you to find a way to save Edouard's life. If magic won't work, help Doctor Sefrin find a potion that will cure him." "As you command, Sire." Imbario bowed, his expression still flat and unreadable. -o-o-o-o-

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"You look tired, Your Highness," Justus murmured as he set Edouard down on the couch in his sitting room. "Would you like me to prepare your bed?" "Yes, please." Edouard did not mind admitting his exhaustion in front of Justus. Dinners with his father were tiring enough, but Imbario's presence always made it worse. "Why does he always insist on inviting Lord Imbario to dinner when I'm there?" "I think your father usually dines with Lord Imbario," Justus replied. "But I'm sure if you requested it, your father would dine alone with you." "But he'd want to know why," Edouard sighed, "and I can't explain it. I just don't like Lord Imbario; I don't know why." Justus sniffed. "He is not a likable man, my lord. You are not the only one to feel that way about him." He stepped into the other room to turn down Edouard's bed and Landon came into the room. "Would you like a bath this evening, Your Highness?" Landon asked. "No, thank you." Edouard found warm baths very soothing, but Doctor Sefrin was always insisting that some foul-smelling concoction or other be stirred into his bath water, destroying whatever comforting benefits Edouard might have derived from the bath otherwise. "I think I would just like to go to bed." "Very well." Landon lifted Edouard and carried him into the bedroom. Justus had finished turning down the bed and he helped Landon undress Edouard and put on his nightshirt. Then they tucked him carefully into bed and turned down the lamps. "Do you require anything else this evening, Your Highness?" "No. I'm fine." Edouard snuggled down under the bedclothes and closed his eyes. He listened to the soft murmur of conversation between Landon and Justus as they decided which of them would spend the night in the chair beside his bed. One of them always slept there, in case Edouard should need anything during the night. Their presence comforted him. He drifted off listening to

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the sound of the door closing and the slight squeak of the chair as one of his two dedicated servants settled in for the night. -o-o-o-o-o-o-

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As soon as Kieran entered the dining hall the next morning, he was greeted by an enthusiastic Tank. "Congratulations!" Tank shouted as he thumped Kieran soundly on the back. "It's all over Wizard's Hall, how you stunned them during your assessment test. Good job!" Kieran stared blankly. "I haven't heard anything." "You will!" Tank beamed. "They'll send for you after breakfast, I expect." He looped an arm through Kieran's. "Come eat. You must be exhausted after yesterday. I heard they kept at you until after midnight." "I don't think it was that late." "All the same; assessment tests usually only take a couple of hours. You must really be something." Tank dragged him to a table. "Make some room, folks. This is Kieran." Several students immediately popped to their feet with smiles and greetings. "Oh, wow! It's great to meet you!" A round-faced girl with shoulder-length blond hair and a wide smile held out her hand. "My name is Lisette. I hope we can be friends." Kieran took her hand uncertainly. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Lisette." A flood of introductions and hand-shakes followed Lisette's and Kieran quickly lost track of who was who. "We've all heard about you," Lisette continued. "We're all third years, so maybe you'll be in our class." At the end of the table, Estelle spoke up with an angry scowl on her face. "There's no way they'd put him with third years! He's had no real training!"

"Shut up, Estelle!" Tank immediately snapped back. "You're lucky they put you in third year. You can barely combine air with water. I heard you still can't combine fire and water." Estelle's face flushed beet red. "That's not true!" she shouted angrily.

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"So prove it," Tank said smugly. He held out his hand and a puff of fluffy gray cloud appeared above his palm. He murmured a spell and the cloud grew black. Flickers of lightning sparked through the cloud and rain began to fall on his palm. Forks of lightning shot down through the rain, singeing the pools of water on his palm to puffs of steam. He extinguished the display with a look of triumph and grinned at Estelle. "Your turn." Estelle's mouth worked silently as her face got redder. Then she surged to her feet and stomped away without a word, leaving her unfinished breakfast behind. Tank burst out laughing. "So I was right! She can't do it. I heard she failed that part of her assessment test but they let her off because one of the testers is friends with her father." "Making storms isn't a requirement to pass the assessment test for third year," Lisette said. "I only just learned to get that right a little while ago." "But you can make water burn." "Well, yeah, but that's easy." Tank winked. "I don't think Estelle can even do that yet." He turned to Kieran. "You can make water burn, can't you?" Kieran shifted uncomfortably. "Well I can, but I was told that it's not good magic." "That's true outside the Wizard's Hall," Tank chuckled, "but it's considered a basic skill here. Starting and stopping fires is about as basic as it gets." "But you shouldn't tease Estelle," Lisette said, a frown of warning on her face. "Her family is quite prominent. If they start speaking out against you, you could get in a lot of trouble."

"I suppose." But Tank's grin made it plain he wasn't really listening. "Let's eat before they come for Kieran." He sat down on a bench and pulled Kieran down beside him. "I do hope they put you in our class."

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Kieran was just finishing a comfortably large breakfast of porridge, kippers and grilled tomatoes when a servant came to escort him to Lady Divwall's office. Armed with the encouragement of Tank and his classmates, Kieran hurried along behind the servant with what he hoped was a confident expression on his face. Once there, he rapped sharply on the door panel and stepped in quickly in response to her summons. Lady Divwall favored him with a warm smile. "Good morning, Kieran. You seem none the worse for your grilling last night." "I slept pretty well," Kieran answered with a slight smile. "Good. I imagine you've already heard the rumors flying through the halls about you. We wizards are terrible at keeping secrets, it seems." She chuckled. "At any rate, what you may have heard is true. The results of your testing indicate that you are more than ready to enter classes at the third year level, so that's where you'll be. You'll be in class 3A with your friend Tank, which is the highest rank class for third years. There are three other third year classes, all at different skill levels. You'll find you have little time for socializing outside your class, so don't worry about it if it seems like your classmates are the only people you know, other than instructors. That's not uncommon. The gentleman outside will take you to your classroom. I look forward to observing your progress, Kieran." "Thank you, my lady." Kieran bowed briefly and retreated back through the door. The servant guided him to the wing of the Wizard's Hall where the classrooms were located and stopped outside a door with a sign above it marked "3A". Kieran drew a deep breath before reaching for the handle and opening the door. "Ah, here is our new student." The instructor was a young woman with reddish-brown hair cut in a short bob that framed her face and made her appear even more youthful. "Welcome, Kieran. I am Professor Kimly." She waved him into the room. "Before you

sit, why don't you briefly acquaint us with your background?" She lifted her eyebrows at him expectantly.

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Kieran stepped nervously into the room. He had never been in a classroom before. The students sat at desks in two neat semicircles facing the front of the room. The instructor sat behind a larger desk with a slate chalkboard behind her, facing the students. He cleared his throat, wondering what to say. Somehow, he suspected the invitation to talk about himself did not include his years as a servant. "I, ah, learned magic from an old woman who lived at the edge of the estate where I worked. Master Colwyn thinks she might have been someone who washed out of the Wizard's Hall years ago. I don't know if that's true because she never told me where she learned magic. But it seems she taught me pretty well, since I'm here now." He glanced at the instructor, hoping that was enough. Professor Kimly smiled back. "Thank you, Kieran." She turned to the class. "Before Kieran sits down, does anyone have any questions for him?" Several hands immediately shot up. "Go ahead, Tank." "Is it true your life was saved by a madrin?" "Oh!" Kieran swallowed. He had not planned on talking about that, but now the question was right out in the open. Everyone was staring at him expectantly. "Umyes, it's true." "What happened?" Tank's bright blues eyes and perpetual grin made the question seem one of friendly curiosity. Kieran cleared his throat. "Well, ah, I found a baby madrin and was cut with a sword trying to protect it. An adult madrin licked my wound and healed it." "Wow!" "Really?" "That really happened?" The excited exclamations were flung not so much at him as into the room in general. The students began to exchange pet

theories about madrin and what Kieran's experience might mean eagerly. Professor Kimly let them rattle on for a few moments before clapping her hands. "All right, everyone! Quiet down, now. Kieran, please take a seat at one of the empty desks." As Kieran sat down at a desk in the second row, Professor Kimly turned to the chalkboard and began to write. "Now, let's resume yesterday's discussion about combining spells. Tank, since I understand you were playing with weather today, why don't you step into the circle and demonstrate today's spell?" With a sheepish grin on his face, Tank moved into the middle of the room and faced the chalkboard. Chapter 5: Danger

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Lord Imbario regarded the wizard seated across from him with faint distaste. Imbario was born with an impeccable pedigree. His family had served in the royal palace for generations. His bloodline was as old and as pure as the king's. Therefore it rankled him that he had to use persons of such low birth as the wizard now facing him. But he had little choice. Low-born wizards tended to be ambitious and have fewer scruples than wizards of noble birth, which made them useful tools. Ambition, or a lack of it, was what had estranged Imbario from his son and left him to forge his plans without the person who should have been his closest ally. But Imbario was not one to dwell on things he could not change. There would be time enough later to address the issue of his son. In the meantime, there were other plans to be made, which had led to his meeting this afternoon. "You said you had news for me, Hambrick," Imbario prompted the man. "Yes," Hambrick nodded, "from the Wizard's Hall. A new wizardling started training there a few weeks ago. You might find him interesting." "Oh?" "The story goes his life was saved by a living madrin."

"What?" For a moment, Imbario's implacable mask slipped. "How is that possible?"

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"Apparently, the boy captured a madrin pup and tried to hide it from a nobleman who was hunting it. Supposedly, the boy was fatally slashed by the gentleman's sword, but an adult madrin appeared, killed several people and then healed the boy by licking his wound." "Has this been verified?" Imbario sat forward slightly, his normal reserve hiding the surprise he felt. "It was witnessed by Lord Colwyn, who had gone there because he heard a rumor that a madrin had been sighted. It was he who brought the boy back to the Wizard's Hall, claiming he had the gift." "Indeed?" Imbario sat back. Colwyn was an unimpeachable witness; therefore the story had to be true. "You say the boy captured a madrin pup. Did he touch it?" "The reports say he was carrying it in his arms." Imbario stiffened slightly, blinking once to cover his shock. Only a wizard could touch a living madrin. No one knew why this was so, but it was well-proven that a normal person would die instantly if he came in contact with a living madrin. Scholars at the Wizard's Hall believed it was because the magic force in a madrin was so great that it instantly burned out anyone not strong enough to withstand it. There was probably some truth in that, given the residual power in a madrin's remains. So the boy must have the wizard's gift, as Colwyn surmised. But moreover, and here Imbario's mind focused sharply, the boy had been directly touched by the power of the madrin. The force of it very likely still lingered in his flesh and blood; perhaps even in his bones. Imbario tapped a finger to his lips. "I assume they have been studying the boy." "Daily, my lord," Hambrick replied. "In addition to his normal studies, he spends an hour each day with various wizards being poked, prodded and questioned."

"Have they learned anything?"

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"Nothing unusual or so I've heard." Hambrick paused. "Although they might be holding back until they know more." "Possibly." Imbario lowered his eyelids slightly to mask his interest. "How did the boy test out?" "Very high," Hambrick said. "He had some prior training, probably from a hedge wizard since he's common born, and shows a lot of natural talent. They put him with the third years." "In third year?" Imbario's eyebrows lifted slightly, but otherwise he was able to mask his alarm. Such an event was unprecedented in his memory. The boy would have to be exceptionally talented to be initially placed in a third year class. It was possible he might be more powerful than Imbario himself. This was not something Imbario could allow. He had spent years carefully manipulating the training and placement of other wizards, even causing certain wizards to be washed out, so that no more powerful wizard than himself existed. He could not allow this wizardling to continue in his training. Hambrick was watching him closely and Imbario realized he had been silent too long. "Thank you illuminating." for the information, Hambrick. It is most

"Should I keep an eye on this wizardling?" "By all means. Keep me apprised of his progress." "Yes, my lord." Hambrick rose and offered Imbario a quick bow before gliding from the room. Imbario did not watch him leave. He was already formulating a plan on how to rid himself of this potentially dangerous new wizard-in-training. And the best part was that his plan would not need to implicate him at all. The king would take care of it. Chuckling to himself, Imbario stood up and set out for the king's study.

Calling the king's work room a study was something of a joke among the king's advisors. The room was large enough to accommodate a meeting of twenty or so people. But there were seldom more than two or three people in it. The king used another room for council meetings. But his study was where King Heston could usually be found, so that was always the first place Imbario looked. As usual, he was not disappointed. Heston was there, along with his secretary and his scribe. "Your Majesty," Imbario said smoothly as soon as he entered, "may I have a private word with you?" "What is it?" Heston did not look up from the papers on the table in front of him. He was standing, leaning on the table with both hands as he read. Heston seldom sat down when he was working. "It is a private matter, Your Highness." Imbario did not say anything else, but waited for Heston to take the hint. Heston grunted. "Excuse us, please," he said, still without looking up. Imbario waited until the king's two assistants had stepped outside and closed the door behind them before speaking. "I learned of something today, Sire, which might lead to a cure for Prince Edouard." "A cure?" Heston spun around and stepped quickly toward Imbario. "Tell me!" "There is a boy at the Wizard's Hall whose life was saved by a living madrin. As you know, I have often said that madrin bone powder would likely cure your son's illness, but we have been unsuccessful in obtaining a sample. However, this youth at the Wizard's Hall; his body must have been suffused with the madrin's power. Perhaps an elixir made from his blood" Imbario trailed off, leaving the suggestion dangling. Heston frowned. "Are you suggesting I take this boy's life?" "The madrin are powerful creatures, Sire. The boy is marked with that power." Imbario watched as Heston struggled with the moral dilemma of sacrificing one life for another. "I should also mention

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that this boy is a commoner. His value in no way compares to the value of your son."

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Heston dropped his eyes and drew in a deep breath. "If it could really save Edouard" "I believe it is worth the attempt, Sire. For the sake of the kingdom." Imbario fell silent, knowing full well what Heston would decide. Heston's love for his son was too deep and his desire to see his bloodline remain on the throne too great. Soon enough, the potential threat posed by the talented wizardling would be removed. -o-o-o-o-o"Are you sure you're trying?" Instructor Nilda growled. She glared suspiciously at Kieran. "Yes, ma'am, I'm trying," Kieran assured her breathlessly. an hour of trying to perform healing magic, Kieran desperately tired. He was sure he was invoking the correctly, but it seemed like nothing was happening. His began to shake and Nilda grunted in annoyance. "You can stop now," Nilda ordered. She stared down at her and then flipped through one of her textbooks. "This should I don't understand." She scowled at the small cut she had in her fingertip and then squinted at Kieran. "Were you healed by a madrin?" After was spell hand notes work. made really

"Yes. But I don't think that gave me a predisposition for healing. It just made me well." Kieran wished she would let him sit down. His legs were starting to shake. "I suppose so." Nilda sounded disappointed. "It's just that wizards with a gift for healing are so rare. I was hoping contact with a creature with healing properties like the madrin might have rubbed off on you." She studied Kieran's face. "Sit down before you fall down, boy." Gratefully, Kieran sank into the chair behind him. "Describe to me again what it felt like when you were healed."

Kieran obliged her, although he was getting tired of repeating the story. This was the third time Nilda had asked him and about the tenth time overall.

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Nilda shook her head when he finished. "That's just the way everyone else who has been through a magical healing describes it. Whatever the madrin did to heal you must be the same technique that wizards with the healing gift use. I want to understand!" She pounded her fist on the table. "Performing a healing causes exhaustion in wizards but the madrin trotted off like it was nothing. Why? This is so frustrating!" "I'm sorry I can't be of more assistance, Instructor Nilda." Nilda smiled ruefully. "It's not your fault, Kieran. I just feel like I'm missing an opportunity here, but I don't know what it is. That's all for today. You should rest. I worked you pretty hard." "Thank you, I will." Kieran left quickly before Nilda thought of anything else she wanted him to try. The spells she asked him to attempt were technically beyond his level of training, but Kieran had done his best anyway. He disliked disappointing his instructors, but it had been drummed into him early on that failure at the moment did not necessarily mean failure in the future. It was close to dinner time, so Kieran decided to go down to the dining hall. No one minded if hungry students arrived a little early, as long as they behaved themselves. "Trainee Kieran!" Kieran turned at the sound of his name. One of the Hall's many servants hurried toward him accompanied by a man in what Kieran now recognized as palace livery. Surprised, he stopped to wait. "Trainee Kieran, this messenger is here to see you." "To see me?" Kieran stared at the messenger in surprise. Why would a king's messenger want to see him?

The messenger inclined his head slightly. "Trainee Kieran, the king desires an audience with you. You are requested to attend him tomorrow morning at the royal palace in White Shores." "The king?" Kieran squeaked. "But but why does he want to see me?"

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The messenger's lips twitched at the impertinence of the question. "His majesty does not need a reason to see one of his subjects." Kieran flushed. "Of course," he said quickly. "Should I come to White Shores tonight or will the morning ferry be early enough?" "The morning ferry will be fine." The messenger inclined his head again and turned smartly on his heel. Kieran watched him go feeling stunned. "I don't understand. I'm just a servant training to be a wizard. Why would someone as important as the king want to see me?" The servant still standing beside him shrugged. "Perhaps it has to do with the madrin, sir," he said. "The instructors and wizards are all caught up over it. Perhaps the king heard something about it and is curious." "I suppose," Kieran sighed. He did not regret meeting the madrin, but his life was certainly starting to get out of hand because of it. He turned back to the dining hall and sighed again. Suddenly, dinner did not sound as appealing. -o-o-o-o-oDespite being confined to his room most of the time, Edouard was nevertheless cognizant of nearly everything going on in the royal palace. In addition to his normal channels of communication, he was not above listening to servant gossip because their idle chatter often contained a lot of information about events of the day. He also found that nobles quite often held private conversations in the presence of their servants, apparently under the mistaken assumption that these servants would not repeat what they heard. In general this was true, but servants would tell one another things they would never repeat to

other nobles. But in Edouard's quarters, when they thought he was napping, his servants would frequently gossip with each other within his hearing, unaware that he was listening to everything they said.

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But it was not through gossip that Edouard learned of his father's plans to bring a young wizardling to court and use him as a cure for Edouard. Edouard learned it directly from Doctor Sefrin, who was completely against the idea. When Sefrin arrived at midday to see if Edouard had eaten his lunch and to measure his reflexes, he was in a foul mood. "You barely touched your luncheon, Prince Edouard!" Sefrin huffed. "I ate all of the soup, Doctor Sefrin," Edouard replied tiredly. "That is not sufficient, Your Highness. You need to eat solid food if you are to build musculature." "I ate some of the bread." "Hmph!" Sefrin lifted Edouard's wrist to measure his pulse. "Your pulse is weak. Have you taken your medication?" "Yes, Doctor." Sefrin fixed his eyes on Landon's face, who was watching the examination without expression. "Did you give him the powder I prescribed?" "Yes, Doctor," Landon said calmly. "I gave it to him before lunch, as you instructed." Sefrin snorted in annoyance. "This is simply unacceptable! All of my ministrations and potions have no effect. Now His Majesty has some far-fetched idea that the blood of some damn wizard will help. Blood! Can you believe it? Am I not the doctor here?" Angrily, he turned to his satchel of medicinal herbs. Startled, Edouard reached out and clasped his sleeve. "What did you say, Doctor? My father wants to do what?"

Sefrin turned to him with a sharp frown. "Apparently, there is a trainee wizard at the Wizard's Hall who was touched by a madrin. Your father thinks that this person's blood may retain the magic of the madrin, so he wants me to render a potion from him. He thinks it will cure you." Sefrin thumped his chest. "I think it's ridiculous. Perhaps there are efficacious properties in madrin bone powder, but I do not believe there is anything to be gained from this boy's blood." Edouard was stunned. At first, he could not believe his father would do something so outrageous. But then he remembered the desperation in his father's eyes the last time they dined together. He released his hold on the doctor's sleeve and slumped back in his chair. Sefrin frowned at him. "You mustn't let this worry you, Your Highness. Worry is not good for your health." "Of course, Doctor," Edouard replied faintly. Sefrin turned to Landon. "I will provide another potion for him to drink before dinner. See that he takes it!" "Yes, Doctor." When the doctor was gone, Edouard grasped Landon's arm. "Landon, I need you to do something for me." "What is it, Highness?" "This boy that the doctor talked about; I want you to find out who he is and bring him to me. I want to see him before my father does." "That may be difficult, Highness." "I don't care what you have to do, Landon. Bring him to me tonight if you have to." Edouard clenched his fists, clutching the blanket draped over his slender thighs. "I won't let this boy be killed for my sake. I refuse." "As you command, my lord." -o-o-o-o-o-

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Kieran rose early the next morning to make sure he caught the ferry, which left shortly after dawn each day to make the first crossing. He had informed Lady Divwall of the summons at dinner and she had given him permission to leave Bright Isle. So Kieran hurried down to the docks in the predawn chill with his cloak clutched tightly about him. There was a hint of snow in the air and the choppy water of the lake looked as gray as the clouds hanging low in the sky above it. Kieran arrived at the dock to find several people waiting to board, both wizards and townsfolk. Asita was among the wizards. "Well, young Kieran," Asita greeted him. "I did not expect to see you here." "Good day to you, my lady." Kieran kept his response neutral, in the hope that she would not want to have a conversation with him. She immediately dashed his hopes. "It is unusual for a new trainee to be given permission to leave the island so soon," Asita commented. "Where are you going?" The question seemed rather forward to Kieran, but it also seemed insulting not to answer her. "I was summoned to the royal palace to meet with the king." "Really?" Asita's eyes opened wide. "That is rather astonishing." Kieran could not help nodding. "I have no idea why the king would want to see me." "Well, Colwyn thinks you're special, so perhaps the king does too." Asita's smile was friendly, making her words seem less like teasing. "Perhaps" "At any rate, I think I should accompany you. I doubt you have been to the royal palace before. I will act as your guide." Kieran's first impulse was to politely decline, but then he realized that Asita's offer was actually very helpful. He did not know anything about White Shores or the royal palace and she had lived in the city her whole life. "Thank you, my lady. You are very kind to offer."

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"It's the least I can do." Her smile became rueful. "Perhaps Colwyn will hear of it and think better of me. It seems I can do nothing right where he is concerned." She looked away and made a show of straightening her collar.

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Kieran blinked in surprise. Asita's words and manner seemed much friendlier and less condescending than when he had first met her. "All aboard!" Captain Needa leaned over the rail and waved at the waiting passengers. "It's cold today," Asita said as they climbed the gangway. "Why don't you come into one of the cabins with me?" "I wouldn't want to be in the way" "Nonsense," Asita dismissed his protest with a wave of her hand. "You're up too early to have had breakfast at the Hall and I haven't eaten either. We'll break fast together and I'll tell you all about where you're going, so you'll know what to expect." "All right." Kieran followed Asita into one of the cabins. He was surprised when no one else entered the cabin with them. "Is everyone else remaining on deck?" "Hmm?" Asita settled into one of the chairs. "Oh, the townsfolk tend to leave the cabins for us wizards when we're also onboard. Sit down." Kieran sat stiffly. "Why have you offered to help me, my lady? Didn't you have another reason for going to White Shores?" "Not really. I was only staying on Bright Isle to see Colwyn, but he left yesterday, so I decided to go home." "Colwyn left?" Kieran exclaimed. "I didn't know." "No one did," Asita said in faint annoyance. "He probably got wind of another madrin sighting and took off to investigate. His interest in those creatures is practically an obsession." Her frown suddenly turned to a look of faint embarrassment. "Forgive me; that was rude. You're interested in the madrin, too."

"Don't you believe in the madrin, my lady?"

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"Believe in them? I" Asita bit her lip. "I don't believe they're intelligent, if that's what you're asking. They're just animals with innate magical abilities." "But there aren't any other animals like that except people, Lady Mederlane," Kieran said gravely. "Doesn't that make them special?" Asita stared at him in consternation. "No one has ever put it to me that way before!" she exclaimed. "When you say it like that I wonder why Colwyn never explained it that way." "Maybe it's just so obvious to him that it hasn't occurred to him that no one else has thought of it." Asita threw her head back and began to laugh. "Oh, goodness me! We wizards like to believe we know everything and yet I have learned something valuable today." "My lady?" "The reason why Colwyn and I always end up arguing. We're not speaking the same language." Asita leaned forward, her warm smile causing dimples to form in her cheeks. "Thank you, Kieran. Thank you for teaching me how to communicate. I think my next conversation with Colwyn will go much better because of you." Kieran was not sure if he was being teased, so he dropped his eyes and did not answer. But Asita did not seem to notice. She proceeded to talk about White Shores and the royal palace. Kieran listened carefully, but he doubted he would remember everything she told him. She named streets they would be traversing, described places they would pass and reviewed the layout of the royal palace extensively. She also gave him a brief overview of the people he might run into, as well as a quick description of the king himself. The discussion made the time go quickly and before Kieran knew it, the ferry arrived at the dock in White Shores. Asita hired a carriage to drive them to the palace. "It's much too far to walk; especially if you need to be there in the morning."

She pointed out the places they had talked about as the carriage rattled through the cobblestone streets. When they arrived at the palace, Asita remained in the carriage when Kieran stepped out. "I have no business at the palace today and it will cause talk if I show up uninvited," she said with a chuckle. "But you're expected, so just introduce yourself to the first person you see wearing royal livery and he'll take you in hand." "Thank you, my lady," Kieran replied. "You've been a great help." "It's been my pleasure," Asita responded and her dimples reappeared. "If you see Colwyn, please put in a good word for me. Good luck." Kieran watched the carriage depart with a feeling of trepidation. Being with Asita had given him confidence. Now he turned to face the wide steps of the palace on his own. There were people of all types coming and going through the wide entrance at the top of the steps. The servants went about their business with only a quick glance for Kieran. The nobles studiously pretended not to see him. But one man in palace livery fixed his eyes on Kieran and marched purposefully toward him. "Are you the wizard-in-training called Kieran?" "Yes." "Follow me, please." The man turned and marched back up the steps without looking back and Kieran hurried after him with a pounding heart. -o-o-o-oJustus entered Edouard's sitting room and stopped in front of the couch. "The trainee wizard is here, Your Highness." Edouard set aside the book he had been reading. "Thank you, Justus. Please bring him in." Justus returned to the door and held it open. The young man who entered looked to be about the same age as Edouard, or perhaps a year older. He hesitated, as if unsure what to do, but at Justus' murmured instruction, he came forward to stand directly in front

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of Edouard and bowed deeply. When he straightened there was a look of recognition on his face.

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"Your name is Kieran, isn't it?" Edouard asked just to start the conversation. "Yes, my lord." "I imagine you're surprised to be here." Kieran shifted slightly. "I thought I was summoned to meet the king." "You were, but I wanted to meet you first. I am Prince Edouard." "I am honored, Your Highness." "Kieran, do you know why my father sent for you?" "No, Your Highness." "Is it true that your life was saved by a madrin?" Kieran started. "Yes, it's true." Edouard had the impression Kieran was surprised by the question. He sat back. "My father thinks your blood will cure me of the illness which has afflicted me since childhood. He sent for you because he plans to kill you and drain your blood to make a potion for me." Kieran stared at Edouard in silence for several seconds. Then he slowly lowered himself to one knee and bowed his head. "I would be honored to give my life for you, Highness." Edouard's heart stopped. "How can you say that?" he whispered. "You know nothing about me. How can you offer your life so easily?" Kieran looked up and met his eyes. "You are the prince and I am a servant. I will do whatever you ask of me." Kieran's voice was calm and he spoke with quiet conviction. Edouard slowly pressed his fingers to his lips. He was accustomed to obedience from servants, but those were servants who knew

him and trusted him. This boy, this wizard-in-training, was a stranger.

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"You are a wizard," Edouard said softly. "You stopped being a servant when you stepped into the Wizard's Hall." "Perhaps," Kieran replied just as softly, "but am I not still a servant of the crown?" Edouard studied Kieran in silence. He was deeply moved. "You would die for me?" "Yes." Edouard sighed. "But I cannot live on those terms. There is no certainty that your death would save my life and I will not waste another human being on such a scant hope." Edouard held out his hand. "Kieran, you must not see my father. Until I can convince him of the futility of this plan, I cannot let you put your life at risk. Go back to Bright Isle." "But, Your Highness" "I will bear the consequences, Kieran. Do as I say." Kieran stood up and bowed. "As you command, my lord." "Justus," Edouard said, "take Kieran back to the dock and stay with him until the ferry leaves with him onboard." "Yes, Highness." "Landon, get the rolling chair. I'm going to see my father." Chapter 6: Loyalty and Service Kieran leaned over the rail of the ferry and watched the dark water slap against the hull as the boat tacked against the wind on its way back to Bright Isle. His thoughts were in turmoil. He was not surprised at how the king planned to use him. The high-born frequently placed little value on the lives of the common-born. What troubled him was his own reaction to Prince Edouard. The moment he looked into Edouard's pale face, Kieran felt a profound bond. He remembered the vision he had had of Edouard

the day he first arrived at White Shores. Colwyn had said the vision might mean they were connected. Now that they had met, Kieran wondered if Colwyn might be right. The impulse to offer Edouard his life had sprung out of that sense of rightness that Kieran felt when he first met Edouard's eyes. Being sent back to Bright Isle almost felt like banishment. Kieran could not shake the feeling that he belonged at Edouard's side. He looked back at the city, wandering what Edouard was doing. Would he get in trouble for sending Kieran home? Kieran wished he dared go back to find out, but Edouard had ordered him to return. Kieran was too well trained to disobey a direct order. He sighed and returned his gaze to the water. He wished Colwyn had not left Bright Isle. He needed to talk to someone. When the ferry docked at Lakes End, Kieran trudged slowly through the town on his way back to the Wizard's Hall, his eyes fixed on the cobblestones beneath his feet. "Kieran! You're back already?" Kieran stopped and looked up to find Tank trotting toward him. "Why aren't you in class, Tank?" It was late morning, when classes were normally in session. Tank chuckled. "Professor Kimly has a cold. She sent us out to buy ingredients for a remedy as a class assignment." "Couldn't she just go to the infirmary?" "Of course, but she wants to see what we come up with." Tank bounced on his toes. "The instructors are always on the lookout for someone with healing skills. It's rare." "So I've been told." Kieran resumed trudging toward the Wizard's Hall. "I should let them know I'm back." "Why rush?" Tank caught his arm. "No one expected you back until the afternoon ferry. Come shopping with me. You can tell me what happened." Kieran hesitated. He wanted to talk to someone, but was Tank the right person? Tank's eyebrows drew together and his face became serious. "Is something wrong, Kieran? What happened at the palace?"

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Kieran glanced around. He did not want anyone to overhear. Speaking in a low voice, he told Tank about his trip. "I didn't get to see the king. I was taken to Prince Edouard instead, who told me the king wanted to drain my blood to make a healing potion, like they would do with madrin bone powder." Tank's eyes went round. "What?"

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Kieran nodded. "Prince Edouard said he would not allow it and told me to come back to Bright Isle. But now I'm afraid the prince will get in trouble for interfering. Do you think I should have gone to the king anyway?" "No!" Tank said sharply. When a few curious eyes turned their way at his exclamation, he lowered his voice to a whisper. "Kieran, it's insane to think your blood has healing properties like a madrin." "But I was cured by one," Kieran whispered back. "Maybe they're right." "And maybe they aren't!" Tank whispered urgently. "You would still be dead if they're wrong!" "But if I could save Prince Edouard's life" "Edouard is going to die anyway," Tank declared in a harsh whisper. "I know it sounds terrible to say it, but he's been doomed since birth. Everyone knows that. The Royal Wizard, Lord Imbario, is the greatest wizard in the kingdom. If he can't do anything for Edouard, no one can." Tank stared anxiously into his face, one hand clasping Kieran's shoulder in a tight grip. "Please, Kieran! Listen to me!" Kieran bit his lip. "I had a vision about Edouard once; before I knew who he was." Kieran returned Tank's earnest gaze. "Colwyn thought it meant we were connected. I felt something when I talked to Edouard. I thought maybe I was meant to help him." "Hmm" Tank frowned. "But letting yourself be killed doesn't make sense. There's no guarantee that it would work." Kieran started. "That's what Edouard said!"

"You see!" Tank thumped his shoulder. "I'm right! Come on. Let's finish the shopping and get back. You should tell Lady Divwall what happened. She takes a dim view of interference with trainees." "But won't that cause trouble between the Wizard's Hall and the king?" Kieran asked anxiously. "I don't want to be the cause of that. I've already drawn enough attention to myself." "It'll be worse if Lady Divwall finds out from someone else," Tank said. Kieran sighed. "You're probably right." He reluctantly fell into step beside Tank. "Let's not take too long. I have a bad feeling." "Right." -o-o-o-o-oEdouard really did hate using the rolling chair, but Landon preferred it to carrying him, so Edouard reluctantly accommodated his preference. And in truth, he had to admit that people would stare at him and whisper however he was transported when he went out. The fact that he could not walk the distance from his room to his father's study always caused talk. He endured the trip in his usual stoic silence. "Edouard!" Heston exclaimed when Landon rolled him into the room. "I am always happy to see you, but I am about to have an audience with someone." "The boy from the Wizard's Hall is not coming, Father." "What?" "I sent him back." Edouard glared at his father. "I will not allow a person's life to be sacrificed for mine." "What are you saying?" Heston stepped forward and stared down at Edouard in surprise. "I know what you are planning and I won't allow it," Edouard reiterated.

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"But, Edouard, you don't understand!" Heston gripped Edouard's frail shoulders. "That boy was touched by a living madrin! He is marked by its power. Doctor Sefrin and Lord Imbario have both said that the power of the madrin would cure you. How can you expect me to pass up this opportunity?" "Because he is a human being!" Edouard shouted. "He is not a madrin! I have studied history. No person in recorded history has been cured by a living madrin, so we have no knowledge of the effect it may have had on him. It might be nothing. Will you throw his life away for that? I will not!" "But it is a chance!" "No!" Edouard shoved Heston's hands away. "I would rather die right now! If a madrin in the only thing that will cure me, find one! But do not expect me to sit quietly and let murder be committed in my name!" Edouard felt a flood of exhaustion spreading through his body. Anger always tired him and he was furious. How could his father not understand? Killing one person for the sake of another was wrong, no matter who the people were. Edouard slumped in his chair, unable to fight the fatigue weighing down his limbs. "My life would mean nothing to me if bought at this price, Father," he finished faintly. Heston stared down at him in silence. The pain on his face tore at Edouard's heart. "Will you leave me so little hope, Edouard?" "Was there ever any hope, Father?" Tears welled from the corners of Heston's eyes and he dropped to his knees beside Edouard's chair. "My son," he whispered, "I would do anything to save you, please understand." "I do understand, Father," Edouard whispered in return. "But there has to be a limit. There has to be." Father and son regarded each other in anguished silence. At last, Heston nodded slowly. "Very well, Edouard. I will not harm the wizardling. But if he might be used in some other way that will not cause him harm, will you allow it?"

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"Yes," Edouard replied softly. He sank back against the cushions. "I need to rest now. Please excuse me."

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Heston grasped his hand briefly before rising. "I'm sorry, Edouard. Please understand that I act out of desperation." "I understand." Edouard managed a faint smile as Landon turned his chair toward the door. He closed his eyes as Landon wheeled him back to his room. He did not believe the battle was over. He suspected Lord Imbario was behind the suggestion and Edouard doubted the wizard would let it rest there. The man would bring it up again and try to convince King Heston that it was utterly necessary. Edouard would have to keep fighting this battle until his life was over. The thought filled him with despair. Was it not bad enough that he was dying? Why did they have to fill his last days with such pain? -o-o-o-o-oKieran knew Lady Divwall was not angry with him; nevertheless, he watched nervously as she paced back and forth in front of him. "How dare he?" Lady Divwall exclaimed angrily. "The king has no right to trespass on matters within these walls!" She stopped in front of Kieran. "You say Prince Edouard told you about this plot?" "Yes, ma'am. He told me he would not allow it and sent me back to Bright Isle." "Good. At least someone in the palace has sense." She patted Kieran roughly on the shoulder and resumed her seat in her cushioned chair. Kieran could not help heaving a faint sigh of relief. The way Lady Divwall towered over him made him feel like an errant child. "I admit there are a few wizards on Bright Isle who have speculated on possible lingering effects your contact with the madrin may have had on you, but no one here has had the temerity to suggest comparing your blood to madrin bone powder." Lady Divwall squinted at him. "Tell me: have you noticed a tendency in yourself to heal more quickly than you used to do?"

Kieran shook his head. "No, but I have not suffered any injuries since then." "None? No scrapes, cuts or bruises?"

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Kieran shook his head again. Lady Divwall studied him intently, her lips pursed. Kieran shifted uncomfortably and spoke again. "I have not been able to work any healing spells either. Instructor Nilda has been training me very diligently, but I have not been successful." "Hmm" Lady Divwall tapped a finger against her lips thoughtfully. Kieran said nothing as she fell silent. Her brow furrowed slightly as she regarded him, but her veiled expression gave no hint of what she might be thinking. At length, she sat back in her chair. "Until this matter is resolved, Kieran, I do not want you to leave the Wizard's Hall unaccompanied. But trust me: I will put an end to this nonsense if Prince Edouard has not already done so." "Yes, ma'am." Kieran took her statement as a dismissal and made a hasty departure. In the hall outside, he found Tank waiting for him. "So what did she say?" Tank immediately demanded. "I'm not to leave the Hall unaccompanied for the time being." Tank nodded. "That makes sense. It shouldn't be a problem, though. If you need to go into town, a few of us can go with you." Kieran managed a faint grin. "There's no reason for me to go into town. I haven't any money to spend." "Why not? Didn't you get your stipend?" "I got it, but I'm saving it." "What for?" "I don't know." Kieran shrugged. "The truth is I've never had money of my own to spend before. I have no idea what to buy."

Tank threw his head back and laughed. "Saints above, Kieran! If that's the only problem, I'd be glad to help you out. I'm sure I can figure out what you need." He draped his arm across Kieran's shoulders. "Let's go to the potions lab. I want to see what sort of a healing potion I can concoct from the herbs I bought."

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Helping Tank with his potion took Kieran's mind off of his morning at the palace. There were other students in the lab also working on their potions and the various fumes, vapors and minor conflagrations had everyone in high spirits by the end of the day. When Professor Kimly came by later to assess their results, wiping her eyes and blowing her nose on a large cotton handkerchief, she immediately fell into a fit of coughing. "Good heavens!" she exclaimed. "I can see this assignment has been something of a disaster." "But Professor!" Lisette protested, "I think my potion will have a mitigating effect on your cold." "I'm sure it will have an effect," Professor Kimly said, "I'm just not sure what." She peered with alarm at the thick, purplishgreen liquid that clung to the sides of the container as Lisette tipped it from side to side. "Try mine, Professor," Tank said eagerly. "At least it doesn't smell bad." Professor Kimly chuckled. "Well, that's always a redeeming feature in a medication." She took Tank's beaker and studied the liquid quizzically. "It has a thinner consistency than most of the others," she noted, "and the color is somewhat less alarming." Several students chuckled. "Have you tasted it?" "Yup," Tank nodded. "So did Kieran. I put a little ground cinnamon in it to make it taste better." "That would also account for the reddish tinge." "Uh-huh." "Very well." Professor Kimly lifted the beaker to her lips and took a sip. "Not bad. It has a nutty undertone, but the cinnamon smoothes it out. It may not cure my cold, but it is making my

sore throat feel better." She took another sip. "I think this might actually work quite well on a sore throat if it were heated. Kieran, if you please." She set the beaker on an elevated metal stand.

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Kieran put his hand under the beaker and created a small flame. Since that early fiasco during his initial interview with Lady Divwall, Kieran had become quite adept at managing witch fire of both the cold and hot varieties. After a few moments, he extinguished the flame and handed the beaker back to Professor Kimly. The glass was warm, but not hot. Professor Kimly smiled. "Your control is excellent, Kieran. Well done." She sipped from the beaker again and her smile widened. "Very nice, Tank. Please write down your recipe. I'll turn it over to Doctor Maklin for assessment. If he deems it to have useful medicinal properties, you'll receive extra credit." "Yes!" Tank jumped in the air with a shout of glee. "The rest of you write down your recipes as well. The same goes for you, too." There were squeals of delight from all sides and everyone scrambled for pen and paper. Professor Kimly swallowed the rest of Tank's concoction. "Now I'm going back to bed. See you all tomorrow." -o-o-o-o-oColwyn stood impatiently at the rail as the ferry slowly nudged up to the dock in Lands End. He was angry with himself for having left. It seemed like trouble cropped up every time he left Bright Isle these days. He had been away when word was received of the baby madrin being sighted south of Lord Inchor's land and he had only just arrived there in time to witness Kieran's sacrifice. And now this! As soon as the gangway was run out, he sprinted ashore and dashed up the streets to the Wizard's Hall. He went straight to Lady Divwall's chamber and rapped sharply on the door.

"Come in!" Lady Divwall was seated at her cluttered desk, a partially written page in front of her. "Ah, Colwyn! You made go time."

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"I came as quickly as I could," he said. "Tell me what the hell is going on." "You know as much as I do," she replied. "Apparently, King Heston came up with the idea that Kieran's blood might work as a curative on Prince Edouard." Colwyn scowled. "King Heston did not come up with that idea on his own. I'm sure Imbario is responsible for it." "Possibly." "Undoubtedly," Colwyn growled. "Did you talk to Kieran?" "Yes." Lady Divwall paused for a moment. "But I had the oddest impression that he was holding something back." "Really?" Colwyn blinked in surprise. "In your message, you said he told you Prince Edouard intervened and sent him back to Bright Isle." "That's right. But there was something else; I'm sure of it." She fixed her eyes on Colwyn's face. "Kieran trusts you Colwyn. Go and talk to him. We need to know if there is something else going on." Colwyn nodded. "I'll do that." He left Lady Divwall's chamber and went to look for Kieran. It was late in the afternoon and the students were no longer in class, so Colwyn checked the dining hall. Kieran was not there, but a few other students were, including Tank. Colwyn approached the energetic youth. "Tank, do you know where Kieran is?" "He's in his room, Lord Colwyn," Tank replied. Then he stepped away from the group he was with and lowered his voice. "Did you hear about that business with the king? I think he's still bothered by it." "I did hear about that," Colwyn said. "Did Kieran tell you about it?"

"Yeah." Tank frowned unhappily. "He seems really upset about Prince Edouard. He wants to help him."

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"Oh?" Colwyn was a little surprised. "I'll go talk to him." He left the dining hall and went up to Kieran's room in the tower. He knocked once on the door and opened it without waiting for a response. "Kieran? Do you have a moment to talk?" "Colwyn!" Kieran jumped to his feet from where he had been sitting slumped on his bed. "When did you get back?" "Just now." Colwyn entered the room and closed the door. "Lady Divwall sent word to me about what happened." "Oh!" Kieran sank back down on the bed. "I didn't mean to disrupt your trip. I didn't know Lady Divwall knew were you were going." "She didn't." Colwyn sat down in the chair beside Kieran's small desk. "Lady Divwall has the gift of far-speaking. She can send her thoughts to someone she knows well over great distances, particularly if that person is listening for her." Kieran stared. "I've never heard of such a thing!" "Not many people can do it," Colwyn acknowledged, "and not everyone can hear her. But I can, which is how she was able to tell me what was happening and summon me back." Colwyn leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "Tell me exactly what happened, Kieran. What exactly did Prince Edouard say to you?" Kieran dropped his eyes and shifted uncomfortably. "Didn't Lady Divwall tell you?" "She did, but I was hoping to hear it from you." Colwyn studied Kieran's unhappy face. "What is it, Kieran? What is it that you're holding back?" Kieran's eyes flicked up and immediately dropped again. "It's about Prince Edouard." He paused and licked his lips. "Do you remember when I had the vision about him?" "Yes."

"You said that we might be connected." "I remember."

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"Well" Kieran hesitated and Colwyn waited for him to continue. "I had a dream about him last night." "Really?" Colwyn focused intently on Kieran, trying to read the boy's body language. Kieran was clearly troubled about something. "What kind of dream?" "I think it might have been prophetic," Kieran said in a low voice. "I dreamed that we were traveling together through deep forests." Colwyn sat back, completely surprised. Kieran finally looked up, his face uncertain. "I think it means I'm supposed to help him. When I met him, I felt" Kieran seemed momentarily at a loss for words. "I've served others all my life because that's what I was raised to do, but when I met him, I felt that serving him was what I was meant to do." He stared at Colwyn, clearly waiting for a response. For a moment, Colwyn could not give him one. Was this bond Kieran felt an aftereffect of his encounter with the madrin or something else? He returned Kieran's uncertain gaze. "Perhaps you were meant to help Prince Edouard, Kieran, but until we have resolved this threat to your life, we cannot investigate it any further. It's not safe for you to go to the palace right now." Kieran nodded slowly. "I understand," he said. "But I will give you this promise," Colwyn continued. "Once this matter is resolved, I will take you to see Prince Edouard myself." Kieran immediately appeared relieved. "Thank you, Colwyn!" His smile wiped the uncertainty and unhappiness from his face. Colwyn was surprised. He suddenly realized that Kieran was not upset about the threat to his life; he was upset by his separation from Edouard. Colwyn stared at Kieran and began to wonder: how deep was the bond between Edouard and Kieran?

Chapter 7: Trust

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Edouard found an unexpected ally in his resistance to using Kieran's blood as a curative. Doctor Sefrin was adamantly against such an experiment, even to the point of arguing against trying to derive a blood-based potion in small, safe quantities to determine its efficacy. "Human blood," Doctor Sefrin intoned, "is rife with disease. While the host may be unaffected by it, administering it to another individual can have catastrophic results. With Edouard's weakened constitution, any invasion of his body by some new pathogen could prove instantly fatal." "Surely you exaggerate, Doctor Sefrin," King Heston said with forced patience. "I cannot believe there is that much risk involved." "Perhaps not for a healthier patient, but with Edouard? My professional instincts cry out against it." Imbario sniffed. "I concede Doctor Sefrin makes a valid point, but I nevertheless believe this line of research worth pursuing. This young wizardling was touched by a madrin and survived a fatal wound. Lord Colwyn, a trustworthy source, witnessed this miracle with his own eyes. Science demands that we research this unprecedented event to the fullest, especially if it might lead to a cure for his highness." Imbario smiled indulgently at Edouard. "Surely you feel the same way, Prince Edouard?" Edouard managed to keep a frown of annoyance off his face at Imbario's tone. "From a scholarly point of view, I would not mind knowing more about Kieran's encounter with the madrin, but my own studies lead me to believe Kieran was and will remain the only beneficiary of the madrin's healing properties. I doubt he inherited anything from the encounter." Imbario's smile turned condescending. "Your brief years of study have undoubtedly given you sound ideas, Your Highness, but I hope you will listen closely and benefit from the wider experience of your elders."

Edouard could not hide his frown this time. "You just said the event we are discussing is unprecedented. How then is your experience in this case greater than mine?"

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Imbario's face went flat, but before he could respond, King Heston cut in. "Now, Edouard, Lord Imbario was not impugning your education, he was merely pointing out that this situation needs to be examined from all possible angles. The most important thing is to determine if there is some residual effect of the madrin in this young man that might be used to help you. We cannot determine that if we don't study him." "I'm sure he's being studied in great detail at the Wizard's Hall," Edouard said. "In fact, I find it hard to imagine that there is anything we could do here that could not be done better there. Wouldn't you agree, Doctor?" Edouard turned to Sefrin and lifted his eyebrows innocently, but out of the corner of his eye, he watched Imbario's expression darken. "I agree completely, Prince Edouard." Doctor Sefrin nodded sharply. "The madrin is a creature of magic and the study of it belongs in the Wizard's Hall. You of all people should know that, Lord Imbario." Imbario's lips pinched together. "Of course magical research is best done there, but would you not prefer doing the medical studies yourself?" "There is no medical research involved here," Doctor Sefrin replied stiffly. "Healing properties associated with the madrin are magic by nature. The results of magical healing cannot be codified by medical science. That is something that either works or does not. I would prefer to utilize proven medications to restore Prince Edouard's health." The flush of barely suppressed anger on Imbario's face almost made Edouard smile. He settled back against his cushions to cover his amusement. The four of them were meeting in his sitting room because Edouard had insisted that he be included in any discussion about Kieran., even though he loathed being in close proximity to Imbario for any length of time. And now the

doctor's unsolicited opposition to using Kieran would make it difficult for King Heston to push for Kieran to be brought to court. Edouard made a mental note to accept the Doctor's ministrations without complaint for the next few days.

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"Father, I'm certain if they learn anything at the Wizard's Hall that might help me, you would be informed at once." "Undoubtedly," Heston sighed. "But I would be happier if I could oversee it more closely. Too often, the Wizard's Hall acts independently from the Crown. Can we be certain that the lines of research they pursue will be the ones that lead most directly to a possible cure?" "You make a valid point, Your Majesty," Imbario interjected smoothly. "Those in power at the Wizard's Hall may not be as concerned as we are about the succession." He touched a finger to his lips. "If it would please Your Majesty, perhaps I should take up residence in the Wizard's Hall for the time being and supervise the study of this wizardling myself." A sharp stab of fear shot through Edouard's heart. For some reason, the idea of having Imbario connected to Kieran in any way terrified him. He covered his panic by smoothing the blanket over his knees. "As long as the research remains within the bounds I have already set, that plan is acceptable." Imbario's satisfied smile only confirmed Edouard's fear. "Good!" King Heston said quickly. "I will feel much better with my Royal Wizard in charge. And Doctor Sefrin, I do hope you will remain open to making use of anything Imbario might discover." Doctor Sefrin inclined his head obediently, but he did not look pleased. He remained seated as Heston and Imbario left. When the door closed behind them, he studied Edouard's face closely. "How do you feel, Your Highness? It seems to me that these discussions distress you a great deal." "I'm just a little tired, Doctor," Edouard replied.

"Hmph!" Sefrin lifted Edouard's wrist and felt his pulse. "You have overextended yourself. You should go to bed for the remainder of the afternoon."

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"Very well." Edouard gestured to Justus, who was standing close to the bedroom door. He had been there for the entire meeting, but as usual, no one had bothered to notice the presence of a servant. Justus lifted Edouard and carried him into the bedroom. Sefrin followed after them. "Would you like a soporific to help you sleep?" "No thank you, Doctor. I think I'll sleep without it." "Good." Sefrin turned to Justus. "See that he is not disturbed until dinner." "Yes, sir." When the doctor was gone, Edouard smiled at Justus. "I'm really not that tired. Would you mind getting my book from the other room? I think I'd like to read for a little while." "The doctor said you should sleep." "I will, but I want to read first." "Very well." When Justus returned with the book, Edouard touched his hand. "Is everyone gone?" "Yes, Highness." Edouard beckoned Justus closer and lowered his voice anyway. "Justus, I want to see that boy Kieran from the Wizard's Hall again. If Imbario goes to Bright Isle, I fear for his life. Can you arrange to bring him to court tonight? It needs to be done in secret. I don't want anyone to know he's here." "As you command." Justus bowed his head briefly before tucking Edouard into bed. "Please do not read for too long, Your Highness. You need to rest."

Edouard could not help smiling at the paternal tone of the statement. "Yes, Justus." -o-o-o-o-o-

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Imbario did not show his irritation until he was safely back in the confines of his own chamber. But once there, he allowed his annoyance a brief outlet by slamming his hand down on his desk. It was ridiculous how easily someone as young as Prince Edouard managed to get under his skin. The boy was intelligent, certainly, but Imbario did not credit him with enough cunning to be goading him deliberately. And Doctor Sefrin had no reason at all to intentionally thwart Imbario's plans. No, those two were simply thorns in his side in the current situation; thorns which he ached to remove. Making a deliberate effort to calm himself, Imbario took his seat at the desk and opened his writing case. The writing case was a beautifully inlaid rosewood box with two wells for ink pots, a space for his pen and a tray to hold spare nibs. The ink pots were designed to be removed and had covers that screwed on tightly to prevent spillage. Imbario lifted out the pot of black ink, gripped it firmly in both hands and twisted. But instead of separating at the dark line of the cap, the pot turned to reveal a hairline crack close to the bottom. Imbario carefully unscrewed the bottom of the container and set the ink pot aside. The removed bottom formed a small tray containing a small quantity of light gray powder. Imbario licked his fingertip and carefully pressed the damp digit into the powder. He sucked the powder off of his fingertip and closed his eyes with a shiver. Even in the trace amounts that he consumed, the power in madrin bone powder was unmistakable. Still moving with great care, Imbario screwed the ink pot back together and returned it to its well in the writing case. Then he sat back and allowed a self-satisfied smile to spread across his face. It was only a matter of time. Soon enough, Prince Edouard would die and the resulting political turmoil would turn the situation in Imbario's favor. All he had to do was wait and the kingdom would fall into his hands. -o-o-o-o-o-

Kieran knew he was dreaming, but the knowledge did not make him wake up. His dream self stood in a darkened hallway in a place he did not recognize but somehow knew was the royal palace. His dreams had always been vivid. Smells and tastes in dreams were as clear and memorable for him as were the sights and sounds. So it did not surprise him that he could not only hear the hiss of the oil lamp burning dimly at the end of the hall, he could smell the lavender used to disguise the acrid scent of the oil. As he watched, a man appeared around a corner at the end of the hall and walked toward him. He was wearing a long robe with the crest of a royal wizard embossed in gold on the left shoulder. His handsome face was marred by an expression of arrogance that the servant in Kieran knew all too well. This man was undoubtedly a nobleman from a prominent family. But as he passed, apparently unaware of Kieran, Kieran started. The man's scent, a blend of body odor and perfumes, contained a faint undercurrent of a scent that reminded Kieran of the baby madrin. He turned to watch the man walk away, but as he moved, the man suddenly whirled around and stared in Kieran's direction with narrowed eyes. Shock sent a flood of adrenalin through Kieran's body and he sat up with a start, abruptly wide awake. He pressed a hand against his chest, feeling his racing heart thumping against his palm. He drew in a deep breath and let it out slowly, trying to slow his heartbeat. But even as he did so, he wondered why it had alarmed him so much that the man in his dream seemed to be aware of him. He slid out of bed and padded over to the washstand to splash some water on his face. A faint sound from the doorway set his heart racing again and he watched in alarm as the door swung slowly open. He could just see the silhouette of a head peeking in and took a nervous step backward. "W Who's there?" he whispered. The door opened further and someone slipped into the room. "Master Kieran?" a man replied in a low voice. "Prince Edouard sent me. He would like you to come see him."

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Kieran was astonished. "Right now?"

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"Yes. His Highness wishes to meet with you in secret, so we must make the trip tonight. We need to be there before the morning ferry can bring rumors of your absence from Bright Isle." Without a word, Kieran reached for his trousers. He would have gone anywhere at the prince's command. Being summoned to see Edouard himself was more than Kieran had expected or hoped for. He quickly stamped into his boots and grabbed his cloak. "I'm ready." Silently, the man led Kieran from his room. He moved confidently through the dark halls of the tower and out into the garden. Lakes End was dark and quiet at this hour and they arrived at the docks completely unobserved. A small sailboat was tied up at the end of the pier just past the ferry. As soon as they scrambled aboard, the boat's crew of four quickly pushed away from the pier and raised sail. Kieran huddled against the railing without speaking. He now recognized his guide as Edouard's servant Justus, the same man who had accompanied him to the ferry before. He wondered if Justus knew why he was being summoned and if he would tell if Kieran asked him. Curiosity gnawed at him, but he kept his mouth shut. He did not want to ask questions that might be inappropriate within hearing of the sailors. So he remained silent through the crossing and during the brief carriage ride to the palace. He continued to hold his tongue as Justus took him into the palace through a side entrance and led the way through dark, silent hallways. Finally, they entered a room that Kieran recognized as being the same place where he had met Edouard before. "Wait here," Justus ordered quietly. Kieran waited where he stood as Justus disappeared through another door. A moment later, Justus reappeared and beckoned to him. Kieran followed him into the other room and found himself in a spacious, well-appointed bedroom. Edouard was sitting up in the bed, his back propped up by pillows, his pale skin looking golden in the light of a single candle.

Kieran immediately dropped to one knee and bowed his head. "You sent for me, Highness?" "Yes, I did. Please get up." Kieran stood up.

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Edouard was smiling, but there was a look of strain on his face. "Please sit here." He indicated a chair next to the bed. "We have much to talk about." Kieran took the indicated seat, although it felt awkward to be seated in Prince Edouard's presence. He met Edouard's dark eyes and waited for the prince to speak. "Kieran, I asked to see you because I am concerned for your welfare. Although my father has said he will not do anything to harm you, I do not trust the Royal Wizard, and now he plans to take up residence on Bright Isle to supervise the wizards studying you." "Why would he do that?" "That's what bothers me." Edouard frowned. "There is no real reason for him to do so, except to get close to you. I think he has some motive that has nothing to do with finding a cure for me." "That's possible, I suppose," Kieran mused, "but it seems to me that the wizards who have been studying me have all been doing so to further their own research. Maybe it would help to have one person coordinating everything." "Maybe, if the contact with the madrin did change you." Edouard studied his face. "Tell me honestly, Kieran: do you think the madrin's power has affected you?" Kieran bit his lip and thought about his life before and after the madrin. So much had changed since then it was hard to say for certain that he was not different. But in his heart, he did not really feel any different. Even studying magic had not really changed him. He could do things that he had not been able to before, but there was nothing unusual in that. It was normal to learn new things as one got older. He returned Edouard's intent gaze.

"I wish I could say that it had, Your Highness, because I want very much to be of service to you. But I do not believe the madrin did any more to me than save my life."

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Edouard nodded slowly. He looked more relieved than disappointed. "That is what I believe, too." He folded his slender hands together on top of the coverlet. "That is the reason why I fear for your life. I fear that when it seems that nothing unusual can be found about you, my father or Lord Imbario will take increasingly drastic measures to extract some kind of benefit from you." "I don't think Lady Divwall or Lord Gavilan would allow that, Your Highness. They maintain very strict control at the Wizard's Hall." Edouard smirked. "That independence is a source of great annoyance to my father. He believes the wizards should be subject to the will of the crown, but the wizards seem to believe otherwise." Kieran blinked in surprise. "But everyone at the Wizard's Hall wants to become a royal wizard!" "Being a royal wizard does not make one a servant of the king, Kieran. It is more like a rank, like Lord or Lady. Only Lord Imbario serves the king, which is why he holds the title of Royal Wizard." "Oh." Kieran looked down. "Does that mean that I could never serve you, even if I attain the rank of royal wizard?" He tried to keep his voice from sounding as desolate as he felt. "Kieran," Edouard replied softly, "it is unlikely I will still be alive when you complete your training at the Wizard's Hall." Kieran had to fight back a sudden urge to weep. He could not bear the idea of Edouard dying. He looked up, hoping the candlelight would not reflect in the brightness of his unshed tears. "Please don't say that, Your Highness! I will have nothing to aspire to if I cannot devote my life to you." Edouard regarded him for several seconds in wide-eyed silence. "Why do you want to serve me?"

"I I just do," Kieran stammered helplessly. "Ever since we first met, I have felt that serving you is what I was meant to do." A sudden idea struck Kieran and he jumped to his feet. "Your Highness! We could go to the madrin!" "What?" Edouard stared at him in confusion.

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"The madrin live in the forests of the mountains southeast of here. Colwyn told me. If we went there, perhaps the madrin who saved me would do the same for you!" "It is a kind thought, Kieran, but what reason would the madrin have to save me? You protected the life of its young. I have done nothing." Kieran hesitated. "I cannot... just do nothing, Your Highness," he said, his voice trembling. The tears he had been trying to hold back started to slide down his cheeks. "You are too important, too precious, not to risk everything for. Please." Edouard sank back against his pillows. "Very well," he replied. His dark eyes held Kieran's gaze without blinking. "We will take this risk together and I will put my life in your hands." Impulsively, Kieran reached out and touched the back of Edouard's hand. "Thank you, Your Highness! I promise I will save you. I will do whatever it takes." It was an insane promise, but Kieran meant every word. -o-o-o-o-o"It is too risky, Your Highness," Landon said calmly. He stood beside Edouard's bed, looking down at his prince with faint disapproval. "I know," Edouard murmured. He stared up at the ceiling, wondering what had compelled him to agree to Kieran's wild plan. It was worse than foolish, but Edouard had not been able to resist Kieran's earnest entreaty. There was something about him that made his companionship feel natural. Edouard had sent him to sleep on the couch in his sitting room. Now that he had agreed to go, he was even more reluctant to send Kieran back to Bright Isle and into the clutches of Lord Imbario. "I will probably die on this

trip, Landon. But I'm going to die anyway. Perhaps it would be better to die in the open, with the sky above me, than to rot away in this bed." "Your father will never permit you to leave."

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"That's why we won't tell him, or anyone, that I'm going. We'll just sneak away." Edouard laughed suddenly. "You know what, Landon? For the first time, I feel like I have hope. I know it's a fool's hope, but it is hope nonetheless. I have not felt this way for as long as I can remember. This is what Kieran has brought me. If I gain nothing else from this, I will always be grateful to him for that." Landon folded his arms across his chest. "Justus and I will accompany you," he said flatly. "I wouldn't have it any other way, Landon. Will you make the preparations? I want to leave tomorrow night." "I will take care of it, Highness." Landon inclined his head. He left the bedroom and a moment later, Justus entered. "How is Kieran?" "He is sleeping, Your Highness." "We need to keep him hidden tomorrow. I've asked Landon to make arrangements for our departure tomorrow night." "So he told me, Highness." "You don't approve either, do you, Justus?" Edouard chuckled. "No, Your Highness. But it is my duty to look after you, which I will do wherever you go." "Thank you." "It is time for you to sleep, Your Highness." Justus tucked the already tucked coverlet carefully around Edouard's body. "I will put Master Kieran in one of the empty guest rooms tomorrow."

"Very good." Edouard rolled onto his side as Justus pinched out the candle. He was extremely tired, but he was also excited. He had never done anything risky or foolish in his entire life. Now he was planning to do something that might very well kill him and he was starting to look forward to it. He realized that he liked the idea of spending what would probably be his last days in Kieran's company. Chapter 8: Risk

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Colwyn tended to rise late when he stayed on Bright Isle because he was not on the teaching staff and had no real obligations. So it was well past the normal breakfast hour when he took a seat at a table in the empty dining hall. A serving girl peeked at him from the kitchen door and disappeared with a squeak. She reappeared a moment later with a tray. "I'm sorry we don't have much selection right now, Lord Colwyn," she apologized. "We just started cleaning up to prepare the midday meal." "This is fine," Colwyn said, accepting the tray without really looking at what was on it. "I'm happy you still had something." The girl bobbed her head and hurried back to the kitchen. Colwyn tucked into the plate of sausages and tomatoes with a smile. This was actually his favorite breakfast, along with toast and tea, which had also been provided. The kitchen staff new his tastes well. He suspected they had set the tray aside, knowing full well he would show up late and hungry. "Colwyn!" Lady Divwall called from the dining hall entrance. "Late for breakfast as usual, I see." "Good morning, Divwall," Colwyn greeted the tall wizard with a smile. "What brings you here at this hour?" "Ill tidings." Divwall sat down opposite him. "I just received word that Lord Imbario is planning to move to Bright Isle to oversee the testing on Kieran." "Why?" Colwyn frowned.

"I don't know and I don't like it." Divwall pursed her lips. "In fact, I was about to order that all personal research with Kieran cease. There is no doubt that the young man is extremely talented, but the tests are just cutting into his school work without producing any benefits I think we stand to gain more by having him focus on his studies."

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Colwyn nodded. "I agree. Quite honestly, I never thought there was much point to the research, other than to see if we could figure out how the madrin cured him without leaving even a scar." "But apparently we have not done well in convincing the king of that. He is so intent on finding a cure for Edouard that he tends to be unreasonable." "Have you sent any reports about Kieran to his majesty?" "Well, no, but there didn't seem to be much reason to. There is nothing to report." "But even that might have stopped him from saddling us with Imbario." Colwyn wrinkled his nose. "I have no interest in staying if he's going to be here. We'll just end up having the same argument again." "True, but you might be the only one who can shield Kieran from him." Divwall leaned closer and lowered her voice. "There are few wizards here willing to stand up to Imbario, including Gavilan. If you leave, there would be nothing to keep him from ordering people about as he likes. He could make life very difficult for Kieran." Colwyn sighed. The idea of spending even an hour with Imbario irritated him, but Divwall was right. Imbario would turn the Wizard's Hall on its ear and disrupt the academy. The students deserved better. "Very well, I'll stay. But I think we should try to get Heston to recall him. You should write a report on the little we've learned about Kieran and submit it to the king." "Good advice," Divwall nodded. "I'll do that. In the meantime, you should speak to Kieran."

"I will. He'll be in class now, but they should be breaking for the midday meal soon. I'll catch him then."

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"Very good." Divwall rose a little stiffly. "Oh! My bones are aching. The weather must be about to change." "Good! I've had enough of winter." He watched Divwall glide away, her steps steady despite her complaints of aching bones. But then his thoughts returned to Imbario and he frowned. Dealing with the Royal Wizard was Colwyn's least favorite activity. He resumed eating, but the food had lost its flavor. Imbario's presence would benefit no one, least of all Kieran. Colwyn waited for Kieran later at the foot of the stairs leading from the wing where the third year classrooms were, but Kieran was not among the flood of students charging down the steps for their midday meal. Surprised, he trailed the trainees to the dining hall, but Kieran did not appear among them there either. Feeling a faint concern, Colwyn went to Kieran's room in the tower, but the young man was not there. Worse still, his room had the disarrayed appearance of having been left in a hurry. His bed was unmade, the blankets spilling off on to the floor as if he had only just slid out of them. Colwyn's concern turned to alarm. He hurried back down to the main hall and went straight to Lady Divwall's rooms. He knocked once and entered immediately without waiting for her response. "Lady Divwall, I can't find Kieran." Instead of asking useless questions, Divwall closed her eyes, her brow wrinkled in concentration. After a moment, she opened her eyes and returned Colwyn's worried gaze. "He does not appear to be anywhere on Bright Isle!" "Are you sure?" "You know my ability is not an exact science," Divwall said, "but I am fairly familiar with Kieran. If he was within my range, I could feel him." "But why would he leave the island?" Colwyn began, but then he stopped with his mouth open. "Prince Edouard!"

"What about Edouard?" Divwall asked worriedly.

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"Kieran told me that he has been dreaming about Edouard. He said that he felt drawn to the prince. I think Kieran would do anything Edouard asked him to. If Edouard summoned him to the palace" "But why would Edouard do that?" "I have no idea. But I can't think of any other reason why Kieran would leave the island. I'd better go to the palace and see the prince." Colwyn started to turn toward the door, but then he turned back to Divwall. "You're going to have to deal with Imbario. He'll probably be on the afternoon ferry. Stall him when he gets here. Tell him I took Kieran to White Shores and that we're returning on the morning ferry." Divwall nodded. "Will do. Take care, Colwyn." -o-o-o-o-oPrince Edouard discovered that it was fairly easy for an invalid to hide the fact that he was about to do something rather foolhardy. In the morning, he told his servants he felt a little indisposed and, after showing signs of weariness and general malaise during Doctor Sefrin's exam, he was left undisturbed in his room all day with only Landon and Justus to check on him. That made it much easier to make plans for their journey. Edouard had his two trusted servants retrieve maps, obtain supplies and quietly arrange for horses and a litter without anyone being the wiser. It was quite late in the afternoon when Justus stepped into his bedroom with a look of concern on his face. "Your Highness, Lord Colwyn is here asking to speak with you." "Colwyn?" Edouard bit his lip in thought. "He must have come here looking for Kieran. He probably knows I spoke to him before. Does he seem worried?" "Yes, somewhat." "Hmmm" Edouard pondered his options. Was Colwyn more likely to be suspicious if Edouard refused to see him? He glanced

around the room. Their travel supplies were presently hidden away in the cupboards and under the bed. As far as he could tell, there was nothing to catch the eye. "Bring him in, but tell him first that I can only visit with him for a few minutes." "Yes, my lord." While Justus was gone, Edouard put most of his papers under the coverlet, keeping only one book out. He shifted down slightly in the bed because he knew it made him look less alert when he was slightly reclined. Then he plastered a tired little smile on his face to greet Colwyn. The handsome wizard did look worried when he entered. He bowed quickly and spoke without waiting for Edouard's greeting. "I'm sorry to trouble you, Your Highness, but I was wondering if you have spoken with Kieran recently." "The young man from Bright Isle?" Edouard said innocently. "Not since he was last here. Is something the matter?" "No." Colwyn managed to sound like he was not lying. "But maybe you've heard that Imbario is planning to move to Bright Isle to study Kieran." "Yes, I'd heard that." Edouard lowered his eyelids a little so Colwyn could not tell how closely he was watching the wizard's reactions. "I hope that does not interfere with his training too much." "We'll do our best not to allow that." From the frown on Colwyn's face, Edouard suspected that Imbario's tenure on Bright Isle might not go exactly as he would like. Edouard suppressed a smile. "If there's nothing else" "No, nothing, Your Highness," Colwyn said quickly. "I'm sorry to have troubled you." He offered Edouard another quick bow and left. When he was gone, Edouard pushed the bed clothes down, revealing his notes and maps for the journey. "You know," he said to Justus, "I don't like lying to Colwyn about this. Of all the

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wizards, he is probably the only one who would support us in this endeavor."

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"Perhaps," Justus said. "But more likely he would tell you not to engage in such dangerous behavior." Edouard laughed. "You're probably right! Nevertheless, we're going to do this. Even the weather has turned in our favor." He pointed toward the window, where a warm spring breeze billowed the drapes. "I am looking forward to being outside." -o-o-o-o-oKieran fell asleep waiting for midnight to arrive. He had intended to nap during the day, but he felt guilty not being in class, so he spent most of the afternoon and evening practicing spells. So after dinner, drowsiness overcame him and he fell asleep with a book in his lap. That was how Justus found him later, slumped in a chair sound asleep with the book about to slide onto the floor. "Master Kieran, it's time." Kieran started awake, momentarily disoriented. Then he remembered where he was and he hopped to his feet. "I'm ready." "Good. Follow me." Justus led the way back to Edouard's chamber, where they met the young prince and his other servant, Landon. Justus lifted Edouard in his arms and the four of them made their way through silent halls out to a small courtyard at the rear of the palace. Although he had never been there before, Kieran recognized the courtyard as being a place for servants rather than nobility. It simply had that look about it. It was probably where deliveries were made. But waiting on the far side of the courtyard were three horses. Two of the horses were saddled for riding. The third carried a large pack in place of a saddle and had the long poles of a litter lashed to either side. The litter was made of woven leather straps covered with a straw mattress. Justus settled Edouard onto the litter and covered him with blankets. Then he lifted the ends of the poles, raising the litter off the ground.

"We'll carry it until we're out of the city," Landon said quietly. "It will make too much noise if we let it drag over the cobblestones." "And it would be too rough," Justus added.

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Landon grasped the lead of the pack horse in one hand and the reins of one of the saddled horses in the other. Kieran took the other horse's reins. "I can't ride," he said, feeling a little embarrassed. Landon accepted this with a slight nod. "I know. You can ride with one of us, but I expect that we will walk a good deal of the time." He turned toward the gate leading out of the courtyard and set a pace that was comfortable for Justus to maintain supporting the litter. They passed very few guards on their way out of the palace grounds and Landon greeted each of them with a silent nod as they went by. Walking beside Edouard's litter, Kieran finally could not keep silent. "Why don't any of the guards say anything?" "I bribed them," Edouard replied with a chuckle, "and they don't realize it's me they're letting sneak out. They think I am a lady avoiding an unwanted marriage." "Oh." Kieran could still not help feeling sorry for the guards. When it was discovered that Edouard was missing and questions were asked, their complicity in the escape would be discovered and they would very likely be punished for it. "I know they'll be punished," Edouard said softly after a moment, "and I hope they will forgive me later, but unfortunately, it can't be helped. It would be impossible to leave the palace unnoticed, even at this hour." "At least you are aware of it," Kieran replied quietly. "Most nobles wouldn't care." Once they were away from the palace and into the city proper, they saw no more guards. In fact, they passed almost no people

at all. Landon avoided the parts of the city where inns and brothels operated into the late night hours. After an hour, and with still a few miles to go to reach the city's edge, they stopped so Landon and Justus could trade places and they continued with Landon now carrying the poles of Edouard's litter. "Are you warm enough, Highness?" Landon asked.

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"I'm fine," Edouard said, but he had the blankets wrapped tightly around him and Kieran could see he was shivering. "Can we stop for a moment, please?" Kieran said. "What is it?" Edouard asked. "With your permission" Kieran murmured and he rested his hand lightly on Edouard's shoulder, on top of the blanket. He murmured a spell and felt warmth spreading from the palm of his hand through the blankets and into the mattress underneath. "Oh!" Edouard exclaimed. "What did you do?" "I just learned this spell," Kieran said, feeling rather proud of himself. He had not expected to find a practical application for it so quickly. "It's a way to make heat without light." "Thank you!" Edouard said gratefully. "I admit I was a little chilled, but I didn't want to worry anyone." "The heat should last for several hours," Kieran said. "At least until dawn, I think." "That's perfect." Edouard snuggled into the warm blankets with a smile. "You see, Landon? This may not be so bad after all." -o-o-o-o-oDawn found them well south of White Shores, following the coast road. They were riding now, with Kieran behind Justus and Landon leading the packhorse. The litter bumped a little bit as it slid along behind the packhorse, jostling Edouard gently from side to side. The effect was soothing rather than disturbing and Edouard drifted in and out of a doze as they traveled along. It was odd to be outside while the world grew brighter around him,

slowly revealing the landscape. Heat from Kieran's spell still lingered in the blankets and mattress, insulating Edouard from the chill air, although now that it was getting light, he could see the mist of his breath. Edouard glanced at Kieran. The young wizard looked a little uncomfortable on horseback. Edouard wondered what he was thinking. His experience with wizards was fairly limited. Imbario was the only wizard he knew well. There were a few others with whom he had spoken a few times, like Colwyn, but in general he did not feel like he knew anyone else that well. For that reason, and also because wizards did possess an ability that others did not, Edouard had always supposed that Imbario's arrogantly superior attitude might be justified. But now Kieran had come along and his kind and gentle attitude made Edouard question that. "Do you want to stop, Your Highness?" Edouard started as he realized Kieran was now returning his gaze. For the first time, he noticed that Kieran's eyes were the color of storm clouds. "No, I was just thinking." "Are the blankets still warm?" "Yes." Edouard smiled. "I have often wondered whether the talents of wizards ran to practical things. Imbario always makes it seem as if a wizard's powers should not be wasted on mundane matters." "But what other purpose should they serve?" Kieran asked with simple honesty. "Almost all of the earliest spells I learned were for practical purposes, like making light and purifying water. And things like making the wind blow never really seemed to have any purpose at all, except for play." "You can make the wind blow?" Kieran nodded. "Colwyn says I shouldn't though, except for small breezes, because it can disrupt weather patterns for miles around." Kieran bit his lip. "I made a storm the day I was almost killed and one of the instructors told me that was why winter lasted so long this year."

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"Really?" Edouard stared. It was hard to imagine having that kind of power. No wonder his father believed so strongly that wizards should be able to cure him. "I hope this trip won't be too much of a disruption in your training."

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"It's all right." Kieran shrugged and smiled slightly. "I have lots of spells I need to practice anyway. Besides, helping you is more important." He ducked his head, as if his devotion embarrassed him. "And we shouldn't be gone that long." "It's time to leave the road," Landon said abruptly. "If we are seen, it will be easier for them to track us." He turned his horse and plunged off the road into the open fields. The fields around White Shores were normally tilled, but at the tail end of winter, they had not yet been planted. Landon guided them across the open space until they reached the forest edge on the far side. Then he turned to follow the line of trees until a break offered a way in wide enough to accommodate the litter. Looking back, Edouard could just see the first travelers of the morning appearing on the road to White Shores. Then the trees closed in around them and the cool dampness of the air trapped under the branches stole the last of the warmth from his blankets. Landon reined his horse to a stop. "We should consult the map now," he said. He swung down from his horse and opened one of his saddlebags. He brought the map back to Edouard and knelt down by the litter. "We are about here, Your Highness." He indicated a spot that did not seem all that far from White Shores. "If we are to reach the southern mountains unseen, we will need to travel through forest most of the way." He traced a route that steered well clear of the larger roads. Edouard studied the map. Thick forests covered large sections of the southern part of the kingdom, especially close to the mountains. The southern end of White Lake butted up against those same mountains, forming deep fjords. They were supposed to be beautiful and Edouard had always wanted to see them, but their present journey was unlikely to take them that far south. He drew his attention back to the route they would need to follow. "There are a lot of villages in the forest." He pointed at the map. "How will we avoid them?"

"We can't avoid all of them, nor should we," Landon said. "We'll need to get supplies. But most of these villages are quite isolated. They won't know who you are." He folded the map and stood up. "Let's walk for a while, until we can find a larger path heading in the right direction." Justus and Kieran dismounted and they set out at a walk. Kieran walked beside the litter, his hand resting lightly on the pole. A drop of water fell on Edouard's face and he brushed it off in surprise. He squinted up through the trees. "Is it raining?" Kieran looked up. "No, my lord. That's just moisture dripping from the trees, from the condensation that forms overnight." "It is?" Edouard stared up in fascination. Of course, he had read about this phenomenon but it was so much cooler and wetter than he had thought it would be. He held his hand out to capture more drops of moisture as they fell. "It feels just like rain." "On really foggy days," Kieran said, "it sounds like it too. So much water drips down that it's the same thing as rain if you're walking underneath. It's impossible to stay dry. This isn't too bad, though." He put his hand on Edouard's blanket and a flood of heat made the blankets steam. "Is that better?" "Yes, thank you." Edouard continued to stare up. He had spent his life reading about the world without ever experiencing it. Now he was in the open with nature all around him and he was entranced. Even the cold seemed exciting. There was just so much to see! -o-o-o-o-o"Your Majesty!" Doctor Sefrin's alarm was so unusual that he immediately captured Heston's full attention. "Prince Edouard is not in his rooms! I can't find him anywhere! Nor can I find either of his personal servants!" "What?" Heston pushed away from the table so sharply papers scattered in all directions. "That's impossible!"

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"But I have looked everywhere!" Sefrin wrung his hands in dismay. "Even places I know he could not be!" Sefrin stared at Heston, clearly expecting the king to do something.

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The guard on duty outside Heston's study had poked his head in at Sefrin's first excited exclamation. Now he disappeared into the hall and Heston could hear him shouting orders to search the palace. Heston hurried to the door. "Search the grounds as well!" he called out. "And question anyone who has no good reason to be here." "Yes, Sire!" The guard relayed these orders without leaving his post. Despite his fear, Heston noted the fellow's adherence to protocol gratefully. By remaining outside the door, he would always be available to relay Heston's orders. Heston stepped back inside and turned to Sefrin. "When you examined Edouard yesterday, did you notice anything unusual?" "Not especially, although he complained of being tired. I just thought it was the stress of the last few weeks with talk of that wizardling and magic cures." Sefrin shook his head unhappily. "I should have realized there was more to it. Edouard is usually quite open with me, but now that I think about it, he was rather reserved in his manner." "Dammit!" Heston cried. He pounded a fist into his palm. "What can the boy be thinking?" Edouard's fragile health had always inspired a terrible fear in Heston. He lived in dread of the day when Sefrin came to him with the sad news that Edouard had died. But to simply lose him without any chance to prepare for it left Heston wallowing in panic. "Imbario must return from Bright Isle at once! If Edouard isn't found immediately, I will need him to lead the search." Sefrin nodded. "I will see to it, Sire." He hurried from the room, but he left the echo of his worry and fear behind. Heston started pacing, chewing his lip in frustration. He wanted to rush out and join the search, but he knew that was not the best way to employ his time. The bureaucrats with whom he had been meeting watched him pace nervously, clearly at a loss as to what they should be doing. Heston stopped and turned to them.

"We'll shelve this for now," he said shortly. He had already forgotten what the meeting was about. "Please leave."

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Looking more relieved than Heston thought was appropriate, they gathered up their papers and filed out. But just as the door started to close behind the last of them it swung back open. Two guards came in escorting a man in a wizard's robe. "Lord Colwyn!" Heston was caught by surprise. Colwyn was probably the last person he expected to see. "He was in the palace, Your Majesty," one of the guards said without preamble. "You said to question anyone who had no good reason to be here." Colwyn threw the guard an angry frown. "I have a reason for being here!" he snapped. "I came looking for my trainee Kieran. I stayed the night since I came over on the afternoon ferry." Heston stared. "You were looking for Kieran here? Why? Imbario went to Bright Isle to study him." "I know," Colwyn growled. "But Kieran disappeared from Bright Isle yesterday and I came to ask Edouard if he had seen him." "Edouard?" Heston's confusion made his head ache. "Why would Kieran come to see Edouard?" "I don't know, but I couldn't think of anywhere else Kieran would go." Colwyn's eyes suddenly focused sharply on Heston's face. "What's going on? Why is everyone in such an uproar?" "Edouard is missing," Heston stated flatly. Colwyn's eyes went round in surprise and then his face shut down into an expressionless mask that instantly raised Heston's suspicions. He leaned forward and grabbed the collar of Colwyn's robe. "What do you know?" "Nothing," Colwyn said with a sharp shake of his head. He calmly removed Heston's hand from his robe. "But if Kieran and Edouard are together, I will find them."

"Colwyn" Heston began in an angry snarl but Colwyn stopped him with a glare.

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"I am a royal wizard, Your Majesty. My lineage is undisputed." Colwyn drew himself up to his full height, which was just a finger's breadth taller than Heston. "If Edouard is to be found, I will find him and return him to you unharmed." Without another word, Colwyn turned on his heel and stalked from the room. The guards looked after him and then back to Heston hesitantly, awaiting his orders. Pursuing an angry wizard was obviously not something they wanted to do on their own initiative. Heston waved a hand. "Let him go," he sighed, "but continue the search. Question everyone who was on duty last night. If Edouard left the palace, someone must have seen him." "Yes, Sire!" The two guards snapped crisp salutes and marched out, closing the door behind them. Alone, Heston stumbled to the nearest chair and sank into it, his legs trembling. "What will I do if I lose Edouard?" he whispered. "I'm not ready." He buried his face in his hands and began to weep. "I will never be ready!" Chapter 9: A Wizard's Training Landon and Justus seemed a little surprised that Edouard had no trouble sleeping in his litter, but it allowed them to call very few halts as they marched along under the dripping trees. Kieran's upbringing had prepared him to walk all day and he was happy to trudge along next to Edouard's litter and tend him as necessary. The prince looked very young and vulnerable when he slept; his cheeks flushed a delicate pink from the cool air. That flush had worried him at first, because Kieran had always associated a flush with fever. But Justus assured him that it was nothing unusual for Edouard, so Kieran suppressed his concern. Nevertheless, he kept Edouard's blankets warm and dry just to be careful. While Edouard slept, Kieran thought about their situation. It would not be particularly difficult for a wizard with farseeing ability to find them. He would need to do something about that. He remembered Ma Bricker telling him once that disrupting farsight was fairly easy.

"When I was a girl, I used that trick to get away with all kinds of shenanigans!" she had confided with a rusty chuckle. "But then I found out that if you're not careful, the disruption itself can be traced. I got my bottom switched good that day!" And then she had leaned forward until her crooked nose was nearly touching Kieran's. "That's when I figured out you can't just make a blurry place, you gotta make a place that looks natural for where it is. Even the mind's eye can get tricked by illusion when it's looking at the real world."

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Recalling that conversation now, Kieran remembered his lessons about making illusions. He had never been that good at creating illusions from his imagination, but he had done very well when he was copying something he could see. He looked at the wet branches over their heads. Even without leaves, the canopy was thick enough to hide them for the time being, but once they stopped for the night and lit a fire, they would be easy to spot. He knew that when they were farseeing, wizards looked down from above as if they were flying over the land. So he would need to cast an umbrella of illusion above them. He looked up again and began to whisper a spell. "What are you doing?" Kieran looked down to find Edouard gazing at him curiously. "I'm making an illusion to hide us so the wizards can't find us using far-sight." "You can do that?" Edouard asked in surprise. "I hope so," Kieran replied with a grin. "I've made illusions before, but this one has to work from above. I think after I cast it, I'll need to climb a tree and see how it looks." "Can you see your own illusions?" "Oh!" Kieran almost stopped in his tracks. "I didn't think about that. But the spell should appear solid no matter who is looking at it, I think." "Well, just to be safe, I'll ask Justus to climb up and look at it." Edouard pursed his lips thoughtfully. "But what happens when we walk out from under it?"

Kieran blushed. "Well, actually, I was going to attach the illusion to you since you're the one they will probably be trying to find. That way the illusion would move with you."

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A wide smile spread across Edouard's face. "You are a very clever wizard for such a young man, Kieran. I am very impressed." Kieran's blush deepened. "Thank you, Your Highness." Landon stepped back to join them. "Are you hungry, Your Highness?" "No, but I would like some water." Silently, Landon retrieved the canteen and removed the stopper before handing it to Edouard. Edouard clasped the leather pouch and tipped it up carefully. "Oh, that's nice and cool. It tastes good." "We filled it at a stream not too long ago," Landon answered. "Fresh water always tastes better, I think." Edouard lifted an eyebrow. "You must get out of the palace more than I thought." Landon smiled very slightly. "Before I came into your service, I often attended your father on hunting trips." The smile left Edouard's face. "Serving an invalid prince must be tiresome for you," he murmured. "Not in the least, Your Highness. I am proud of my position." Landon's lips twitched. "And just to set the record straight, I was gored by a boar the last time I went hunting with King Heston and spent three months in bed. It was another three months before I could walk normally again. I was injured because I took the boar on my spear by myself to keep it from charging through our party. I stopped it long enough to give the others time to attack, but not before it trampled me and gored a few holes in my side. King Heston rewarded me by assigning me to your service while I was recuperating, but I choose to remain with you after I healed." He bowed slightly to Edouard and held his hand out for the canteen.

Edouard placed the pouch in his palm in silence. "Please tell me when you need to stop, Your Highness." "I will." Landon returned to his place at the front and Edouard sighed.

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"I had heard a story that Landon used to serve my father, but he never told me about it before." Edouard grew thoughtful. "In fact, I think that was the longest speech I've ever heard from Landon." "Perhaps being away from the palace is refreshing for him, too," Kieran offered. "Perhaps." Edouard frowned. "But now that I think about it, I don't know that much about him or Justus. They've both served me since I was very young, but I have never asked them about themselves. It seemed too personal." "Perhaps they think there's nothing to say. If you were to ask me about myself, I wouldn't know what to tell you. I was orphaned at a young age and was taken into Lord Inchor's household as a servant." "But you're a wizard!" Edouard exclaimed. "A servant with wizard's training must have a story behind him!" Kieran ducked his head. "I suppose so. But even that is really mundane. I used to visit an old woman who lived at the edge of Lord Inchor's estate and she taught me magic." Edouard sank back against his blankets with a sigh. "Everyone thinks his life story is uninteresting, but I have an insatiable desire to know anyway. Perhaps it is because I have so little time to learn and to experience life. If I learn enough about the lives of others, perhaps it will feel like I have lived more life of my own." Impulsively, Kieran touched the back of Edouard's hand. "Please do not think such sad thoughts, Your Highness. Let's look ahead and believe we will succeed in finding the madrin and saving your life. Then everything will be in front of you and you won't have to keep looking back."

Edouard turned his hand and clasped Kieran's hand in his. "All right, let's do that," he said softly. "And from now on, I think you should call me Edouard. If we are going to keep my identity secret, my title is the first thing we must leave behind. Please tell Justus and Landon to do the same." Edouard released Kieran's hand and closed his eyes. "Please excuse me. I think I need a little more sleep."

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Kieran watched Edouard's face until the slight rise and fall of the blanket from his breathing settled into a steady rhythm. He was quite sure he would feel uncomfortable addressing Edouard by name, but he decided not to think about it until the time came. Instead, he looked back up at the branches overhead and resumed planning his illusion. Casting illusion spells was a gray area in the annals of magic, because they could so easily be used to cause harm, while being harmless themselves. Both illusion spells and the ethics of casting illusions were taught during the second year. Professor Kimly had spent one afternoon pounding the ethics portion of the training into Kieran to go with the technical skills he already possessed, since he had placed out of the second year. But their current situation gave him no doubts about the rightness of what he was doing. Protecting Edouard and getting him safely to the madin was all that mattered. -o-o-o-o-oColwyn was not surprised to learn that several guards had been bribed to allow someone they thought was a young lady to sneak out of the palace the night before. Young noblewomen in general were a flighty breed; given to falling in and out of love on a moment's notice. It was considered standard practice for a young lady to flee her arranged marriage. It was almost a part of the courtship ritual. The guards in question all received punishment duty, but they were not flogged because who could blame them? Whoever had been on duty that night would have accepted the bribe. It was one of the things that made night duty palatable. But that did not make Captain Soleson, commander of the palace guard, any less angry. "Perhaps now His Majesty will listen when I tell him this palace is a sieve!" Soleson exclaimed furiously. "We leak noblewomen like a colander leaks water and no one cares until it's their daughter who escapes. And now we've lost Prince Edouard!"

Colwyn clucked sympathetically. "Do you have a report from someone who saw them leaving?"

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"Several," Soleson rumbled darkly. "Three men left with a litter and three horses shortly after midnight. There was a person on the litter wrapped in blankets, whose small size led them to believe it was a woman. It didn't occur to anyone that a small person might also be a boy." "Well, who was to expect it?" Colwyn said with a shrug. "Young women are always sneaking out and who would have imagined that Prince Edouard would take it into his head to do the same?" "Who, indeed?" Soleson agreed morosely. "Yet I nevertheless have to try to guess where he was headed. I have sent investigators into the city, but at that hour it is easy to avoid detection. And apparently they were carrying the litter poles. No one would have heard them." Colwyn shook his head. "It sounds like you have your work cut out for you, Captain. Of course, we at the Wizard's Hall will do what we can to help. I am on my way there now to direct those who can far-see to begin looking for him. You will receive word as soon as we discover anything." "Thank you, Lord Colwyn." Soleson ran his fingers through his hair. "I just wish I knew what His Highness was thinking. At least the weather is improving." "Yes, that's something to be thankful for." Colwyn clasped Soleson's shoulder. "We'll work as quickly as we can." Soleson nodded and Colwyn took that as a dismissal. Captain Soleson's office was on the ground floor of the palace not far from the main entrance. Colwyn was out of the palace and halfway across the courtyard in mere moments, looking for a carriage to take him to the docks. "Colwyn!" Colwyn looked ahead to see Asita waving at him from the window of a carriage bearing her family crest. She pushed the door open and leaned out.

"Colwyn, I didn't know you were at the palace." She seemed pleased to have run into him.

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"I hadn't planned to be here and now I need to get back to Bright Isle immediately." "Oh dear! You will have missed the morning ferry. If you like, I can take you to my house. My family's yacht is moored there right now." She held the door for him invitingly. Colwyn debated accepting her offer. He did not want to be beholden to Asita, but the circumstances were too pressing. Besides, if he used her yacht to get to Bright Isle, he could return immediately to begin searching for Kieran and Edouard. He hesitated for only a moment before hopping up into the carriage and taking the seat opposite her. Asita leaned out the window. "Take me back home, please," she called to the driver. As the carriage started to move, she sat back and studied Colwyn's face. "What's the matter? It's something bad, isn't it?" "The news will be all over the city soon," Colwyn replied grimly. "Prince Edouard snuck out of the palace last night. He's missing." Asita's face went pale. "Was he kidnapped?" "No. By all accounts, he left of his own accord with his two personal servants and," Colwyn paused and drew a deep breath, "I think Kieran is with him." "What?" Asita sat forward, apparently unmindful of the dangerous amount of cleavage the position revealed. "Yes," Colwyn nodded gravely. "We discovered Kieran missing from Bright Isle yesterday. I came to the palace last night thinking he might have come to see Edouard. Edouard claimed he hadn't seen him, but now I think our sweet young prince lied to me to cover up the fact that they were planning to slip away last night." "But why?" Confusion wrinkled Asita's brow. "Where would they go?"

"I have my suspicions," Colwyn muttered.

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Asita continued to stare at him and then her eyes widened. "You think Kieran is taking him to see the madrin!" Colwyn smirked. "You're quick, Asita. That's exactly what I think." Asita sat back. "I assume you're going after them," she said calmly. "What can I do to help?" "Your offer of the yacht will be enough." "Colwyn," Asita began firmly, "I know we have our differences, but I sincerely want to be of assistance to you and to Prince Edouard. I seriously doubt Kieran coerced him into leaving. Edouard chose to go. And if that is the case, it is our duty to help him achieve whatever goal he has in mind." She tipped her head to one side and smiled. "And besides, I know you would give anything to see the madrin yourself." Colwyn crossed his arms and smiled ruefully. "I cannot argue with your logic," he said. "Very well, there is one thing you can do for me." He leaned forward and stared intently into her eyes. "When your father killed the madrin, where was he? The location he reported was much too close to human settlements for an adult madrin to have gone unnoticed until he happened across it. He was somewhere else when he caught it. I need to know where that was." Asita shifted uncomfortably. "We always end up fighting when we talk about this." "Not this time," Colwyn shook his head slowly. "I truly need to know and I will place no blame." "All right. I'll have to check my father's papers when we get to the house. I know he went back to that spot a few years later to look for another madrin, after he had sold all the bone powder made from the first one. He should have a map." "Thank you." Colwyn sat back. "I will not forget this, Asita." Dimples formed in Asita's cheeks as she smiled, reminding Colwyn of the first time they had met, long before they arrived on

Bright Isle as young wizards-in-training. The pretty little girl in a sea-green dress with long yellow curls and bright blue eyes had drawn the eye of everyone who saw her, and she had adored Colwyn from the very first day. But then he left for the Wizard's Hall and when they met again a few years later, her father had killed the madrin and Colwyn had never been able to contain his resentment. But he remembered that they had once enjoyed each other's company as children, enough so that there had been talk of an arranged marriage until Asita's magical talent had become obvious and she was sent to the Wizard's Hall instead. Looking at her now, he realized that he had allowed his resentment of her father to stain their relationship all these years. It really was not Asita's fault her father had hunted and killed a madrin. Considering this, he caught her eye and spoke gravely. "Asita, how much can I trust you?" Asita's eyes widened slightly and a faint flush formed on her cheeks. "Colwyn, I hope you would be willing to place complete trust in me. I have always respected and admired you." "Very well. Lord Imbario went to Bright Isle yesterday to study Kieran, before we knew he had disappeared. I instructed Lady Divwall to tell Imbario that Kieran was with me in White Shores. If I go back to Bright Isle without him, Imbario will be suspicious. I would prefer it if he did not find out Kieran might be with Edouard until he learns it from King Heston. I would like to start looking for them first. So it would help me if you would go to Bright Isle and instruct the far-seers to begin looking for Edouard and then I can leave immediately to search for him on horseback. Will you do that?" "But why?" Asita asked, puzzled. "Imbario is a very powerful wizard. He would be a great help." Colwyn snorted. "Imbario is quite powerful, but his far-sight is poor. He knows when he is being watched, but he cannot far-see himself. Besides, why did he go to Bright Isle in the first place? I don't trust him."

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Asita frowned. "Colwyn, you really need to get over this animosity. I admit that Imbario can be somewhat overbearing, but he has served the kingdom well."

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Colwyn waved a hand dismissively. "Maybe so, but why then does he have this intense interest in Kieran? He's never shown the slightest interest in a trainee before." "That's not true," Asita objected. "He has always shown encouragement to the more talented students. You are a prime example of that yourself." "Hardly! I spent most of my years at the Wizard's Hall avoiding him and trying to move out of his shadow. Nothing would please me more than to have everyone forget he is my father." "You certainly act sometimes as if you've forgotten," Asita said quietly. "Or is that why you spend so much time away from White Shores: because you can't forget?" Colwyn stared out the window and did not answer. His resentment of Imbario had started long before he departed for the Wizard's Hall, when it seemed like his father cared less about him than he did his own importance as the newly appointed Royal Wizard. Colwyn had been only too glad to escape to Bright Isle to begin his training. But Asita was right. He still had not escaped his father's shadow. He sighed. "Will you just do as I ask, Asita, without judging me? Maybe I'm wrong about him, but I want to do this on my own." "Of course, Colwyn," she replied quietly. "You can borrow one of our horses and I'll arrange some supplies for you." "Thank you." Colwyn continued to stare out the window. The carriage had moved out onto the coast road and was rapidly approaching the rolling foothills dotted with the large homes of the wealthiest noble families. I'll have to come to terms with him one of these days, he thought. At some point I will have to outgrow him. -o-o-o-o-o-

When darkness began to fall, Landon found a relatively dry spot for them to make camp. Edouard found the increasing darkness both alarming and exciting. Although the sky above them was clear, the glittering stars slowly coming into view cast no light whatsoever. Even while the sky was still light, the shadows under the trees thickened quickly until one could not see beyond the clearing at all. His imagination was eager to fill that darkness with all manner of frightening creatures. Until that moment, Edouard had never thought he was afraid of the dark. Carefully, he climbed out of his litter and moved closer to the others. Justus and Kieran had collected firewood before it was too dark to see and now Kieran started a fire by whispering a spell over a tent made from several sticks of the damp wood, drying and igniting it at the same time. "That's convenient," Landon remarked as he unpacked food for dinner. Kieran smiled. "It's something I wouldn't have dared to try three months ago." Halfway up a tree at the edge of the clearing, Justus called down to them. "I can't see a thing," he reported. "It looks like dark intertwined branches, just like everywhere else." He scrambled down the tree and joined the others by the fire. "I'm glad we don't have to sleep under the trees. We'd get dripped on all night." He spread a blanket on the ground for Edouard close to the fire. Edouard settled onto it and looked up at the sky. "It seems odd that we can still see the stars if there's an illusion of tree branches above us." "That's one of the funny things about illusions," Kieran said. "It's actually harder to make one that's visible from all angles instead of just one direction. I think it's because it's easier to bend light going only one way." "I suppose that makes sense," Edouard agreed thoughtfully, "since illusion affects the eye only and the eye responds to light." Then he looked around and shifted uncomfortably. "Although

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there's precious little light out here now. Do any creatures live in these woods?"

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"Nothing dangerous," Landon said. He handed Edouard a slice of bread folded around a piece of ham. "This close to White Shores, anything dangerous has long since been hunted out of these woods." "That's true," Justus agreed. "A deer is probably the largest thing we'll encounter and they are fairly timid." Kieran smiled comfortingly at Edouard. "They're right, Edouard," he said, sounding suddenly self-conscious when Edouard's name left his lips. "I've walked through the woods between Lord Inchor's estate and town dozens of times at night and the madrin was the first dangerous creature I ever ran into. And it turned out not to be dangerous," he finished with a chuckle. "I know I sound foolish," Edouard said. He laughed nervously. "But the world seems much bigger all of a sudden, even though I can barely see any of it." "We will protect you, Edouard," Landon said gravely. "It is our duty and our privilege," Justus echoed. He poured water from one of the canteens into a kettle and set it close to the fire. "I'll make some tea to ward off the chill. Edouard, I brought two doses of the stomach powder Doctor Sefrin made for you." Edouard made a face. "Must I take it? It makes me queasy." "Well..." Justus said doubtfully. "If you keep your dinner down, I suppose there is no reason to take it." "Good!" Edouard took a quick bite of his bread and ham, but he chewed it slowly. He was used to eating bland soups and food cut into tiny pieces. Eating a meal held between his two hands was a novel experience. When the water began to boil, Justus added tea leaves to the kettle and moved it away from the fire to steep. "Would you like some cheese, Edouard?" Landon offered.

"Yes, please!" Doctor Sefrin seldom let Edouard eat cheese because he believed it disrupted Edouard's digestion. But the soft yellow cheese had a mild, nutty flavor and Edouard consumed it with relish. "Everything tastes so good!" he exclaimed. "I never knew food could have so much flavor!"

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Landon chuckled warmly. "We must be careful not to let you overdo or you will give yourself a stomach ache." "Better that than feeling tired and sickly all the time." Justus poured out cups of tea for everyone and his slowly. It was a dark, earthy tea and the through his body rapidly, making him drowsy. managed to empty the cup before his head began Edouard sipped warmth spread He just barely to nod.

"Time to sleep, Edouard," Justus said, his voice warm with affection. Edouard stretched out on the blanket he was sitting on and Justus covered him carefully with several more blankets. Blinking sleepily at the fire, it seemed odd to feel so good under such circumstances. Usually, Edouard was so exhausted by bedtime that he would toss and turn fitfully before falling asleep. But despite the fact that he had slept for a good portion of the day, he now found himself drifting effortlessly into a comfortable slumber. "This was a good idea, Kieran," he murmured on the edge of sleep. "I'm glad I agreed to come with you." "So am I, Edouard," Kieran whispered back. Edouard felt Kieran's hand resting on his shoulder and a flood of warmth enveloped him. It was the last impetus he needed to drift away. Chapter 10: Opportunity Imbario glowered at Divwall. He was certain the tall wizard was lying to him. What reason would Colwyn have to take a trainee wizard to White Shores on such short notice?

"Lady Divwall," Imbario said, his tone stiff and formal, "I find this all highly unusual. How could you possibly allow such an important young man out of the confines of the Wizard's Hall with only one wizard as an escort? What of his potential value to the kingdom? Did you not consider this?"

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"What value to the kingdom?" Divwall snorted. She waved away his objection. "We have studied Kieran extensively and have determined that there is nothing unusual about him except his talent. Colwyn asked permission to take the boy to White Shores and I gave it. That is no business of the crown." Imbario frowned at her tone. Divwall was getting above herself, in his opinion. "Lady Divwall, I hardly think you are the person to dictate what is and is not of interest to the crown," he said sternly. "That is for me and his majesty to decide. Right now, we believe the study of Kieran's encounter with the madrin has been insufficient. I am here to remedy that. I wish to speak with every wizard who has studied him. I will wait for them in my office." Imbario turned on his heel and stalked from the room. The office he used when he was at the Wizard's Hall was only two doors down from Divwall's. He closed the door firmly behind him when he arrived and took a seat at the ornate desk, trying to regain his composure. He put his hand on his rosewood writing case, but then drew it away. Now was not the time to be caught with madrin bone powder, but Imbario never went anywhere without taking the case with him. He sat back and considered the situation carefully. There was clearly something going on which was being kept from him. He was certain of that much. But what step was he to take next? Just enough time had passed for him to become annoyed by the idea that Divwall might have ignored his instructions when someone pounded on the door hard enough to make it rattle in the frame. "Lord Imbario!" a voice cried loudly from outside. "His Majesty insists that you return to White Shores immediately!" Imbario jumped to his feet and rushed to the door. He snatched it open to find two guards in royal livery. The look of panic on their faces immediately focused his attention. Imbario had learned early in life never to panic until it was warranted and he had yet

to encounter a situation that truly warranted it. "What has happened?" he demanded calmly.

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"Prince Edouard is missing, my lord!" one guard replied, more loudly than he needed to. "His Majesty wants to you to return and lead the search!" "Of course," Imbario said coolly. He turned away, glad for the excuse to hide his reaction from the guards, because it would have undoubtedly raised questions. He let the smile sit on his face while he collected his writing case and a few other essentials, but it was gone when he turned around again. "Very well." He followed the guards as they hurried along the hall toward the main entrance, his expressionless face hiding the delight he felt. He had been waiting as patiently as he could for Prince Edouard to expire and now this! It was perfect. If Edouard died while he was away from the palace, there would be no reason for anyone to question it. And Heston's desperate affection for his son was infamous. If the loss unhinged him and he unexpectedly expired as well, there would be no one left but Imbario to pull the reins of the kingdom together and keep everything under control. He could not have asked for a better turn of events. -o-o-o-o-oHeston made a conscious effort to keep his voice calm. Anxiety over Edouard was keeping him from getting any real work done and that was only contributing to his overall stress level. Sefrin had already warned him that he might put his health in jeopardy if he did not relax. But how was he supposed to relax with Edouard still missing? He focused his gaze on Imbario's impassive face and spoke in as level a tone as he could manage. "It has been four days, Lord Imbario. How can there still be no signs or clues of Edouard's whereabouts? When you returned from Bright Isle, you assured me that it would only be a matter of days." "Four days is not that long, Your Majesty," Imbario replied calmly. "Lady Divwall has reported to me that her far-seers are scouring the land in all directions to locate Prince Edouard. They

are working day and night, so it should not be much longer before they find him." "I see"

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"In addition," Imbario continued before Heston could say more, "I have been receiving regular reports from the soldiers I dispatched to search for his highness. A group of men traveling with an invalid is noteworthy. Some citizen will report seeing them and then Edouard will be quickly located and returned home." Heston nodded without replying. Of course, logical, but with Edouard's health so fragile, away from Sefrin's care was potentially a day "Thank you, Imbario," he said finally. "Please the search with all due diligence." "Of course, Your Majesty." Heston watched Imbario glide away feeling a vague discomfort. Although there was no sign of it in Imbario's face or manner, Heston had the distinct impression he was glad Edouard was gone. But it made no sense, so Heston tried to dismiss the thought from his mind. Imbario was the Royal Wizard. Service to the crown was his only responsibility. Heston sighed and turned back to the paperwork spread out on his work table. No matter what personal problems he had, the kingdom was still his responsibility and it was his duty to continue to administer it. -o-o-o-o-o-o-oAfter four days, Colwyn was well up into the mountain range east of White Shores. The information he received from Asita about where her father had killed the madrin had led him in this direction, but he was fairly certain now that this was not the way Edouard had gone. The forest here was much too dense and the hills too steep for anyone traveling with a litter. Only one narrow track used by charcoal burners and hunters led up into the mountains and there were no signs that a litter had passed along it. But Colwyn had continued in that direction anyway. If he found signs of madrin, he could follow those and that might ultimately lead him to Edouard and Kieran. it was all perfectly every day he spent cut off from his life. continue to conduct

So he continued his trek into the mountains, frequently needing to lead his horse. He had traveled in this area before during his ongoing search for madrin, so he knew his way around fairly well. Two times before he had found droppings that he believed came from a madrin and he had found tracks many times, but he had never encountered any of the beasts. But those previous partial successes, coupled with the information from Asita, told him he was on the right track. The madrin did travel through this part of the mountain range. But now having the horse was starting to be an inconvenience. Finding paths the animal could navigate was getting increasingly difficult and the beast started exhibiting a skittish side that had Colwyn about ready to turn the thing loose. Time and again it would jerk back on the reins and prance nervously, its ears flicking back and forth in alarm and Colwyn would look for a predator of some kind, but there was never anything that he could detect. "Stupid beast!" Colwyn muttered under his breath when the horse threw its head up in alarm for the third time that afternoon. He stopped and put a comforting hand on the creature's nose. "Calm down." The horse snorted against his palm as he petted it. Although spring was late this year, the trees were starting to bud and the first birds of the season were twittering above his head. In the carpet of leaf mold under his feet, he could hear insects and mice rustling. Those normal sounds made him disinclined to believe that anything was wrong, but the horse's alarm was starting to become infectious. He tightened his grip on the reins, holding them just below the horse's chin. A faint sound caught his ear and Colwyn looked over his shoulder, a frown wrinkling his brow as he tried to identify the noise. The horse shifted nervously, its hooves rustling the leaves and Colwyn shook the reins in annoyance. "Stand still!" he whispered sharply. He turned slightly as he concentrated, waiting for the sound to repeat, and was subsequently caught off-guard when the horse suddenly leaped away, whinnying in terror. Colwyn was jerked off his feet before the reins were yanked from his hand by the horse's frantic movements. He landed heavily on his side, but immediately rolled over and pushed up onto his knees. Free of his grip, the horse plunged away in panic, but was immediately

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snagged in the dense forest growth. It kicked and struggled frantically, its terrified cries ringing through the forest.

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Then something large and heavy bounded past Colwyn and leaped onto the horse, smashing it to the ground in an instant. The horse emitted a final anguished scream and went still. Colwyn remained on his knees, rendered immobile by the image before his eyes. It was like a dream, watching the full-grown madrin eagerly devour his dead horse. Its massive jaws crunched easily through bone while the razor sharp teeth sliced through the flesh like butter. A small part of his mind said he should probably run away, but Colwyn remained rooted in place. All his life he had wanted to see a madrin and now there was one not ten paces away from him. Slowly, he climbed to his feet as the madrin finished its meal. It turned to regard him with giant golden eyes while it licked its face clean with a thick blue tongue. Not knowing what else to do, Colwyn bowed from the waist. "Honored creature," he said when he straightened up, "I mean you no harm, but I am looking for someone and I could use your help." The madrin regarded him calmly as it continued to clean its face. Since it did not seem inclined to attack him, Colwyn continued. "Right before the last snow fell, a boy with wizard's powers saved one of your young from human hunters. The boy was injured and the young one's parent saved his life. I think this boy is now looking for the madrin who helped him. I need to find this boy and his companions." The madrin finished cleaning its face and stood up. It trotted purposefully toward Colwyn and stopped when its wide pink nose was nearly touching his. Colwyn wondered if it could hear how fast his heart was beating. The madrin blinked once. There was no threat in its dinner-plate eyes. Then it calmly stepped around Colwyn and trotted away. But after a few paces, it stopped and looked back over its shoulder at him. Uncertainly, Colwyn took a few steps toward the creature. It dipped its head once and resumed its trot, shouldering casually through the packed brush. His heart pounding, Colwyn followed. He briefly considered retrieving his saddle bag, but decided he wasn't interested in

digging through the bloody remains of the horse to find it. He could live without the change of clothes and there was food all around him. Fortunately, his most essential items were in the shoulder bag he carried looped across his chest. He broke into a jog to match the madrin's pace, a wide smile splitting his face. For all he knew, the madrin was leading him back to its home to feed him to its young, but somehow, he knew that was not the case. Kieran had told him that he thought the baby madrin understood him. Now Colwyn understood why he felt that way. He was certain this madrin understood him and intended to help him. -o-o-o-o-o-o-oDivwall glared in exasperation at the three wizards standing in a contrite row in front of her. They were the best far-seers in the Wizard's Hall and therefore the best far-seers in the kingdom. She drummed her fingers slowly on the arm of her chair.

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"I am running out of excuses to give his majesty and Lord Imbario," she snapped impatiently. "We should have found the prince days ago. Explain to me again why you haven't found him." The wizard on the left end of the row shifted uncomfortably and briefly met her eyes. His bushy white eyebrows made him look much older than he was, but Divwall was at least fifteen years his senior. "I'm sorry, Lady Divwall," he said apologetically. "I have looked as far south as the Great Fjords and found nothing." "Then continue looking further east," Divwall said sharply. "What about you?" She turned to the wizard in the middle, a younger woman who wore her fluffy blond hair cropped very short. "I've searched to the north as far as Griven Falls. Since then I've been working my way east." "Very well." Divwall shifted her gaze to the last wizard, a stripling of a youth who had just completed his training. He could not meet Divwall's eyes and his voice shook slightly as he spoke.

"I've been searching the forests east of White Shores, Lady Divwall, but it's very difficult. I've located several villages and I've been watching each of them regularly." Divwall leaned forward intently. "How many villages?" "Eleven or twelve." Divwall sat back with a frown. "You cannot effectively watch that many villages. They could easily pass through when you're not looking. Suram, Giva, I want you to break off your searches immediately and help Bodie here watch those villages. I can only assume that we haven't spotted them yet because they are under the trees where they can't be seen" She did not get to finish the sentence because someone knocked sharply on her door and immediately pushed it open. "Lady Divwall!" It was Professor Kimly, Kieran's instructor. "Have you been able to locate Kieran yet?" "No, we were just discussing that." Divwall's eyes flicked in annoyance at the three wizards facing her and they all dropped their eyes. "Well, it occurred to me that Kieran might be the cause of that," Kimly said. She nodded her head grimly at Divwall's surprised expression. "Kieran placed out of the illusion class. He was already quite good at it when he arrived. And the one thing I've noticed about that boy is that he approaches magic with a practical frame of mind that the rest of us have perhaps forgotten. I suspect he's using illusion to hide them and it's probably something very clever. You may not be able to find them using far-sight." Divwall blinked at her in astonishment. That was one thing she had not considered. She had assumed that the prince and his party would be trying to stay out of sight, but she had not thought about the fact that Kieran had skills enough to assist them in that regard, even though she herself had tested and assessed him. Frowning at her own stupidity, she stood up. "Thank you, Kimly. Your advice is timely. I think I need to put the diviners to work predicting where they might be so the far-seers

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can focus on looking in specific places and concentrate on seeing through illusions." "Divination doubtfully. is not the most reliable method," Kimly

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"I know, but we are quickly running out of options. It will not bode well for the Wizard's Hall if the king decides we are dragging our feet or deliberately obstructing the search." Looks of alarm crossed the faces of the four other wizards and Divwall pursed her lips. Nearly since its inception, the Wizard's Hall had enjoyed independence from the court, but that could all change. Divwall blanched at the idea of royal guards patrolling the halls, observing training sessions and generally overseeing the day-today life of wizards. "We have to find the prince," Divwall concluded gravely. "We cannot let this situation linger much longer." -o-o-o-o-o-o-o"The litter is ready, Edouard," Justus said. Edouard set aside his empty mug of tea and looked at the litter. Although it had seemed comfortable enough at first, lately he had started to feel restless reclining in the litter. "Would it be all right if I walked for a little while?" he asked finally. "I feel much stronger today." Justus regarded him steadily. "I agree your color is better, but I would not want to take unnecessary risks." "I won't push myself!" Edouard quickly promised. He climbed to his feet. "I don't feel tired at all right now, but I promise to tell you the moment I begin to feel fatigued." He smiled sweetly. "I really would like to walk." Kieran chuckled softly as he began folding up the blanket Edouard had been sitting on. "It sounds funny to hear a nobleman say he wants to walk. Lord Inchor never walked anywhere if he could avoid it."

"People frequently overlook the simpler pleasures," Edouard replied, a little wistfully. "I've always wondered what it feels like to run." He took a few tentative steps over the uneven ground.

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Kieran dropped the folded blanket onto the litter and then moved to Edouard's side. "It helps to hold onto something when your footing is uncertain," he said and offered Edouard his arm. Edouard clasped Kieran's arm. "Thank you. That does help." Justus and Landon loaded the last of their goods onto the pack horse and they set out. The trail they were following showed enough signs of use that Landon was concerned they were getting close to a village. He led the way by several paces, leading one horse. Kieran and Edouard followed with Justus bringing up the rear leading the other two horses. Edouard glanced up at the tree branches laced over their heads. The fog had dissipated two days before and things were finally starting to dry out. Buds were swelling on many of the branches, promising the onset of spring. Rays of sunlight pierced the intertwined boughs, making spots of warmth on his face as they walked. "You seem much healthier," Kieran said suddenly. "I feel much better." Edouard dropped his gaze from the branches overhead to find Kieran studying his face. "I think being with you is good for me." Kieran flushed slightly. "Um... That is very kind of you to think so," he stammered, "but I was thinking more that you've gotten better every day we've spent away from the palace." "I'm sure it's just coincidence," Edouard remarked. "I've always had ups and downs in my health." "Kieran is right," Justus said suddenly from right behind them. "You have never been able to walk for this long before, Edouard. Are you tired?" "Not especially." Edouard's brow wrinkled as he thought about it. "But what are you implying? I've always been sickly."

"You were premature and weak at birth, but you were not sickly. You did not become ill like you have been until you were a toddler. You suffered a high fever once and have been in ill health since then." "Well, that amounts to the same thing," Edouard concluded. "I'm sure the change in environment has contributed to a momentary improvement in my health. Let's just be glad of the change while it lasts." He said the last firmly to bring an end to the conversation. He hated discussing his health because it always seemed to make him feel worse. He straightened his shoulders slightly and continued to stride along steadily beside Kieran. Even if it was only temporary, he intended to enjoy this moment of relative normalcy. He managed to walk until Landon called a halt in late morning. "I can smell a village ahead," Landon reported. "I want to get supplies, so the rest of you wait here. After I get what we need, we'll skirt the village and continue past it." Edouard tried not to show his relief as he sank down on the damp ground, but as soon as his weight was off of them, his legs began to shake. Justus frowned as he knelt down next to Edouard. "You overexerted yourself," he said, his tone just short of accusatory. "I uh" Edouard began, but there was really nothing to say. He had overexerted himself. So he remained silent as Justus began to massage his right leg. "Kieran," Justus ordered. "Massage Edouard's other leg. I don't want him to get cramps." "Yes, sir," Kieran responded obediently and he began to knead the muscles in Edouard's other calf. "Are you prone to cramps, Your Hi I mean, Edouard?" "Sometimes," Edouard replied. The massaging felt good. "Occasionally, I will experience cramps in my legs for no reason. That's one of the reasons I don't walk very often. Exertion will sometimes trigger it."

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"Oh," was all Kieran said and he continued to work in silence. But when Justus declared the task finished, he immediately stood up. "I need to look for something," he said vaguely. "I'll be right back." And he disappeared into the trees.

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"Kieran!" Edouard called out, but the young wizard was already out of sight. Justus, however, said nothing about it. He simply lifted Edouard and moved him to the litter. "You will ride for the rest of the day, Edouard," he said firmly. His expression said he would brook no argument. Edouard ducked his head meekly. Royalty or not, when his two servants took that tone with him, he knew better than to argue. Kieran returned after several minutes, carrying several sprigs of herbs. When he saw Edouard in the litter, he came straight to the prince's side. "Are you all right, Edouard?" "Yes, I'm fine. What's that?" Edouard stared curiously at the bundle of greenery in Kieran's hand. "I want to do a test," Kieran said. "A what?" "A test." Kieran stared thoughtfully at his collection of herbs. "When I first started going to Ma Bricker to learn magic, she was making a meager living as a healer. Wild mushrooms grow all through these forests and most people know which ones you can eat and which ones are poisonous. But every now and then, someone would eat some of the bad mushrooms and get very sick. But you have to use the right treatments for people with mushroom poisoning or they die. So Ma Bricker showed me how to make a potion that would show if someone had eaten bad mushrooms. I want to make the potion for you." Edouard blinked in consternation. "But I don't think I've ever eaten a mushroom in my entire life!" Kieran nodded slowly. "I know. But I want to check anyway."

Kieran would say nothing else on the subject. He settled down a short distance away and began stripping the leaves off of the herbs he gathered. From some of the herbs he kept the leaves; from others the stems. The items he retained he placed in a small pile on his kerchief. When he was finished he picked up the corners of the kerchief and twisted the whole thing into a neat bundle and tucked it inside his shirt. He finished just as Landon returned from the village and they resumed their journey. Kieran walked next to Edouard's litter like he always did, but he spoke very little. When they stopped for the night, Kieran immediately resumed his preparations. He filled one of their smaller pots with water and set it near the fire to boil. Next, he used two rocks and a little bit of water to grind the contents of his kerchief into a paste. Then oddly, he thickened it with a little flour and salt and rolled it into a little brown pellet. "What are you doing, Kieran?" Edouard finally demanded. Even Landon and Justus were watching with open curiosity. "It's almost ready," Kieran replied cryptically. He whispered something under his breath and dropped the pellet into the boiling water. He watched it tumble about in the water for several seconds and then extracted it by stabbing it with the tip of his knife. As he held the suddenly solid blob in the air to cool it, he regarded Edouard with a solemn expression. "I need you to swallow this," he said. "Try not to bite it because it tastes really bad. It's going to upset your stomach. Keep it down for as long as you can. But the point of this is to make you retch so we can see the color of the juices in your stomach." Edouard's eyes went wide. "You want to make me vomit?" "Yes. I'm sure your doctor looked at your spew all the time to see what you were bringing up." Edouard flushed. That was true enough. Doctor Sefrin had an unnatural fascination for all of Edouard's excretions. "But why? I don't understand. I told you: I've never eaten mushrooms." "I know." Kieran spoke slowly, as if choosing his words very carefully. "The poison in wild mushrooms is frequently used in medicines, because small amounts of poison can sometimes be helpful, especially to counteract other poisons. So lots of people

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know how to make extracts of mushroom poison. It's probably the most common poison available. You don't have to eat wild mushrooms to be poisoned by them."

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Dead silence fell as the echo of Kieran's words faded. To Edouard, it sounded like everyone had stopped breathing. Then Landon spoke in a deep voice. "Take the pill, Edouard." Without a word, Edouard reached out and plucked the still-warm pellet from the tip of Kieran's knife. Justus handed him a cup filled with water silently. Drawing a deep breath, Edouard popped the pellet into his mouth and washed it down with a long drink of water. Then he handed the cup back to Justus and blinked at Kieran. "How long will this take?" "Not long," Kieran said. He picked up an empty pot and held it out to Edouard. "Use this." Edouard accepted the pot just as a sharp pain stabbed his midsection. He hunched over with a grunt. "You didn't say it would hurt!" he accused and then he gasped as another sharp pain lanced through him. "Ah!" "Kieran?" Landon questioned. He moved to put an arm around Edouard. "It's normal," Kieran said, but he sounded worried. To Edouard, it felt like a war was raging in his abdomen. He clutched the pot and clenched his eyes shut against the tears that were forming from the pain. And then a great roiling pain surged up and he vomited. He retched three times, more than enough to leave his throat burning. But after the last one, the pain abruptly subsided, leaving him weak. He slumped back against Landon as Kieran took the pot. "That is not a natural color," Justus said. Edouard immediately struggled to sit up. "Show me!" he demanded. "What does it mean?"

Kieran tipped the pot toward him and Edouard almost gagged again at the sight of the slender threads of bright green fluid laced through the more normal browns and pinks.

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"It means you ingested mushroom poison within the last few weeks," Kieran stated matter-of-factly. "B But how?" Edouard was stunned. Justus suddenly jumped to his feet and rushed to the saddlebags. Rummaging through one, he returned quickly with an envelope. He opened it and poured two folded paper packets into his palm. "Doctor Sefrin's stomach powder." His face was stricken. "I have been administering these doses to his highness for years." Kieran took one of the packets and opened it. He sniffed the contents first and then stuck a damp finger in and tasted it. "I don't think this is the cause, but I can check." He sprinkled the powder onto the rock where he had mixed his pellet and stirred it with a twig, muttering under his breath. The powder immediately turned brown. Kieran sat back with a sigh. "It would have turned green if mushroom poison was present. In all likelihood, Doctor Sefrin's care has kept Edouard alive when the poison should have long since killed him. He is a very good doctor." Landon and Justus exchanged a long glance. "Do you mean to say, Wizard Kieran, that someone poisoned Prince Edouard?" Landon demanded in stern, formal tone. "I think," Kieran said slowly, "that someone's been poisoning him in small doses for years, hoping to make his death look like a gradual decline, and the only reason it hasn't happened yet is Doctor Sefrin's medications." "But why am I getting better now?" Edouard demanded. He did not want to believe what Kieran was saying. It implied betrayal by someone he knew; someone he trusted. "I haven't taken the stomach powder since we left the palace." "Probably because you are also no longer receiving the poison." Kieran touched his hand. "I can make a medicine that will help your body excrete the rest of the poison. Once it is gone from

your system, there are foods we can give you that will help your body repair itself. You'll never really be strong though, I'm afraid," Kieran added unhappily. "After so many years, some damage will be irreparable."

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Edouard stared back at Kieran feeling helpless and betrayed. Why would someone poison him? What reason could someone have for putting him through this kind of suffering? Then Kieran's last words sank in and a fierce anger pierced him. "You're wrong!" he cried out angrily. "We came out here to find a madrin to cure me! Now that we know what's wrong, that is all the more reason to go through with this. I want to become strong so I can return and find out who was responsible. I want to look that person in the eye and demand to know why!" The other three returned his angry stare. Kieran simply looked stunned, but Landon and Justus looked resolute. "As you command, Highness," Landon said. Chapter 11: The Madrin Colwyn was ecstatic. For five days, the madrin led him through the rough mountain terrain. It seemed to be aware of his human limitations, because it would stop and plop down on its belly around midday each day, just when Colwyn's breathing was starting to become labored. And each time it stopped, both at midday and at sunset, they ended up near some food item suitable for the human palate, like berries or tubers, and there was always water nearby. But the first night spent in the madrin's company was still the most memorable. As the sun had sunk out of sight that night and darkness had engulfed them, Colwyn had huddled inside his cloak, shivering in the growing chill. His bedroll had been lost with his horse, so his cloak was all he had for warmth. He had been considering starting a fire when suddenly the madrin had shuffled over next to him and curled its large body around him. Its thick, dark fur was as smooth and as soft as human skin and it radiated a ruddy warmth. Colwyn had settled against the madrin's warm side, his face aglow as the slow rise and fall of the creature's side as it breathed rocked him gently back and forth. Each night after that, Colwyn had slept beside the madrin.

Now, on the afternoon of the fifth day, the path they followed was leading them out of the thick mountain forests and into the high meadows above the foothills bordering the lowlands far south of White Shores. Here it seemed like the late spring was determined to make up for lost time. The meadows were already green with new grass and the first of the wildflowers were starting to bloom. The madrin trotted along the edge of the meadows, using stands of trees and the folds of riverbeds to stay more or less out of sight. Colwyn was puzzled at first until he saw the white backs of sheep dotting one of the meadows and realized where they were. Humans used these meadows for grazing and shepherds occasionally reported seeing madrin up here. Colwyn had once spent an entire spring and summer camping in the high meadows but he had never seen anything.

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Abruptly, the madrin stopped at the edge of a stand of trees and looked back at Colwyn. Its golden dinner-plate eyes regarded him steadily for a moment and then it looked deliberately across the meadow. Colwyn followed its gaze and a stunned smile spread across his face. Climbing into sight on the far side of the sloping meadow were four people and three horses. Even from this distance, he recognized Kieran and Prince Edouard. Colwyn turned to the madrin. "Thank you, my friend. These are the very people I was searching for." The madrin dipped its head and blinked at him. Then it sat down on its haunches, clearly intending to wait. Colwyn stepped out into the meadow and waved. "Kieran! Your Highness!" The approaching party stopped, obviously surprised. They spoke among themselves for several seconds and then Kieran and one of the men approached him. As they neared, Kieran offered Colwyn a rueful smile. "How did you find us?" he asked. Deliberately, Colwyn pointed over his shoulder at the madrin and Kieran's eyes went wide.

"You found one!" Kieran breathed. "How?"

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"Actually, it found me," Colwyn replied. Then he straightened his back, folded his arms across his chest and glared at Kieran. "Just what do you think you're doing, Trainee? You did not have permission to leave the Wizard's Hall." Kieran's shoulders hunched slightly, but a look of defiance settled on his face. "I brought Edouard to see the madrin to see if they could cure him. Someone has been poisoning him." "What?" Colwyn stared past Kieran at Edouard, who was standing confidently next to the other man. "Edouard has a weak constitution," he continued uncertainly, but Edouard's stance belied that statement. "What makes you think he was poisoned?" "Because I tested him for it," Kieran answered calmly. "After we left the palace, he started getting better. It made me wonder, especially given his other symptoms, so I used a test Ma Bricker taught me that detects mushroom poisoning. Edouard had mushroom toxin in his body." Colwyn absorbed this news in stunned silence. Who would possibly do such a thing? Who stood to gain if Edouard should die? King Heston had a sister and she had two daughters, both older than Edouard, but Colwyn had never heard that she aspired to put either of her daughters on the throne. Otherwise He looked at the man standing next to Kieran. Colwyn recognized him as being one of Edouard's personal servants. Almost as if he were following Colwyn's train of thought, the man spoke. "The only person we do not suspect is Doctor Sefrin. Kieran believes it is through Doctor Sefrin's care that Edouard did not succumb to the poison." Colwyn nodded slowly. That made sense. "But if you know he was poisoned, why didn't you give him the antidote?" "We did," Kieran said. "Landon helped me find all the ingredients and we made it for him several days ago. The poison is cleared from his body, but he was poisoned repeatedly. His body has been damaged beyond my ability to cure him." Kieran's distress over this fact was plain on his face. "His life will still be cut short

if nothing else is done. That's why we were still looking for a madrin." He looked past Colwyn at the madrin seated in the shade of the trees behind him. "Do you think your madrin would help Edouard?" "Why do you call it 'my madrin'? How can you tell it's not the one that saved you?" Kieran blinked. "I just can," he said with a slight lift of his shoulders. "I see. Just tell me one thing. Why have the far-seers been unable to find you?"

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A guilty look stole across Kieran's face. "I've been hiding us with an illusion." He pointed back at Edouard. "I've been floating an image of whatever is around us in the air above Edouard, so someone looking down will see the same scene without us in it. Originally, I was constructing an image of tree branches, but when we came out into the open, I figured out how to make a reflection of the ground that moved with us." Colwyn shook his head with a chuckle. "I am starting to think I made a mistake when I decided your old teacher was not a rogue wizard. You have capabilities far beyond those of anyone your age that I have ever met." Kieran shifted uncomfortably. "Will you tell Lady Divwall?" "I think she will have figured it out for herself by now," Colwyn said dryly. "Kieran," Landon interrupted. "We should not keep Edouard waiting." "You're right." Kieran turned, but before he could beckon or call out, Colwyn spoke up. "You should leave your horses where they are. The madrin seem to have a taste for horseflesh. That's why I'm on foot right now." Landon and Kieran both blinked in surprise at the placid madrin.

"Very well," Landon said. He walked back to the others and spoke briefly. Then he and Edouard returned to join Kieran and Colwyn. "Lord Colwyn," Edouard said. He inclined his head slightly with an amused smile on his lips. "Somehow, I am not surprised to see you." Colwyn could not help staring. Edouard stood easily and there was a healthy glow shining in his face. He was still thin, but Colwyn had the distinct impression that Edouard had put on weight, even though it was not that long since he had last seen him. "Your Highness, I am glad to see you looking so well." Edouard's smile widened. "Thanks to Kieran, it seems my life expectancy has suddenly increased." He smiled affectionately at the young wizard. "His refusal to accept my illness as terminal has changed my fate." "So it would seem." Edouard shifted his gaze to the madrin. "That is truly a most fearsome looking creature." "It's worse when they're angry," Kieran stated matter-of-factly. "But I'll go speak to it." He approached the madrin calmly and bowed. "Honored creature, may I ask a favor of you? My companion," he pointed at Edouard, "has suffered a prolonged illness that has weakened his body. Is there anything you can do to make him completely well?" The madrin blinked at Edouard. Then it rose and trotted purposefully toward him. Landon remained still at Edouard's side, despite the look of obvious concern on his face as the large creature neared them. The madrin trotted right up to Edouard and stopped with its wide pink nose nearly touching his face, exactly as it had done with Colwyn. Kieran came back to also stand beside Edouard. "Its scent is quite pleasant," Edouard said nervously. The madrin slowly lowered its head until its large eyes were on a level with his. It regarded him without moving for several long

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moments and then lifted its head. Turning slightly, it flicked out its blue tongue and licked its nose, leaving a glistening sheen of moisture. Then it turned back to Edouard and briefly touched his forehead with its dampened nose.

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Edouard reacted as though he had been struck. With a sharp cry, he flung his arms out and fell backward. Kieran and Landon reacted in the same instant. They caught Edouard between them as he fell and eased him to the ground. Edouard began trembling violently, his eyes rolled up into his head. "Edouard!" Landon cried sharply. "Highness!" Kieran grasped Edouard's hands. "He'll be all right. The madrin's magic is very strong." Colwyn knelt next to the other three and pressed his hand against Edouard's forehead. "But it barely touched him! The madrin that cured you licked you with its whole tongue. I saw it!" Kieran smiled grimly. "And it hurt worse than the sword strike! And I am a wizard. Weren't you the one who told me only wizards can touch living madrin and survive? Edouard is not a wizard." Kieran returned his gaze to Edouard's face. "And Edouard was not on the verge of death. I was, so more drastic magic was needed." Edouard's trembling slowly subsided and his eyes regained their focus. He drew in a ragged breath. "That was something of a shock," he rasped out weakly. "How do you feel, Highness?" Landon asked worriedly. "Actually" Edouard blinked several times and drew in another breath, filling his lungs deeply. He let the air out in a long sigh and a magnificent smile lit up his face. "Nothing hurts! I feel wonderful!" He sat up and looked down at his body. Then he pushed their worried hands away and bounded to his feet. He threw his head back and began to laugh. "I feel fantastic!" he shouted at the sky. He spun in a circle on one foot and stopped facing the madrin. "Thank you! Blessed creature, know that when I am king, I shall issue an edict declaring it illegal to kill a madrin. Your lives will be protected by the crown." He bowed deeply to the silent creature. "Thank you."

The madrin lowered its head in an answering bow. Then it turned and trotted away.

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Edouard turned to Kieran smiling broadly. Kieran stood up and the two young men stared at each other in silence for several heartbeats. Then Edouard jumped forward and flung his arms tightly around Kieran. "Thank you, Kieran! I bless the day you came into my life!" Kieran returned his hug just as tightly, his face hidden against Edouard's hair. "This is why I was gifted with this power, Edouard. For you." Colwyn watched them with a nagging feeling tugging at the back of his mind. He glanced at Landon out of the corner of his eye. The tall servant did not seem at all disturbed by the obvious affection that Kieran and Edouard displayed for each other. The other servant appeared beside them, leading the horses. "This is good," he said softly. "We should make camp and prepare a meal. I suspect Edouard will be hungry." The smile on his face was almost paternal. The answering smile on Landon's face matched it. "Please do that, Justus." He nodded toward the trees where the madrin had disappeared. "Over there should be good. I'll see if I can catch us some fresh meat." He walked away, clearly not the least bit concerned about leaving his prince when there were two wizards to protect him. Edouard and Kieran separated just enough so they could look at each other. "I can't believe this really worked," Edouard said. "When you suggested it, I agreed because I didn't want to die in bed. I thought it would be better to die in the open with you beside me." "Whatever the reason," Kieran answered gravely, "I never doubted that we would succeed." Edouard sighed. "But now we will have to go back and you must return to the Wizard's Hall. I doubt we will get to spend much time together."

Kieran studied Edouard's face. "I will always be your servant, Edouard."

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Edouard nodded without taking his eyes off Kieran's. "You will always be my friend," he replied softly. Colwyn cleared his throat. "Your Highness," he said pointedly, trying to remind both young men of Edouard's station, "would you mind if I examined you? I am curious to see what lingering effects contact with the madrin may have had on you." "Of course, Lord Colwyn." Edouard stepped reluctantly away from Kieran and turned toward him. "I do feel different." "That may just be from being truly well after such a prolonged illness, but it is better to be sure." Colwyn used his wizard's senses to examine Edouard, because what he was really looking for were traces of the madrin's magic. But there was nothing that he could detect, just as he had been unable to detect anything in Kieran when he had been cured by the madrin. He concluded his examination with a pat on Edouard's shoulder. "You appear to be perfectly normal and healthy, Your Highness. This is a great day for the kingdom." "And for me!" Edouard added happily. "Let's go help Justus with dinner. I'm starving!" -o-o-o-o-oFor the rest of the afternoon and evening, Kieran could not keep his eyes off Edouard. The young prince was simply brimming with energy and health and happiness. Kieran still remembered how it felt when his injury was healed. It had been as if he were never wounded at all. How then must it feel for Edouard, who had been weak and sickly his entire life, to suddenly feel like a normal healthy person? "It's like he's been reborn," Colwyn spoke up beside him. Kieran glanced at the older wizard. "Yes, that must be what it's like for him. If he's been sick all his life, he doesn't even remember what it's like to be healthy." Kieran returned his gaze to Edouard. "The rest of us just take it for granted."

"And he has you to thank for it."

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Colwyn's tone made Kieran flinch. Colwyn had been watching him and Edouard closely all evening. Every word they exchanged, every touch scrutinized by Colwyn's piercing gaze. "He is the heir to the throne," Kieran said. "Shouldn't we do everything in our power to help him?" "That is true for us full wizards," Colwyn said sternly. "But for a trainee wizard who's been at the Wizard's Hall for less than a season" He paused. "Such a one should give considerably more thought to his actions before he takes them." Kieran ducked his head. "I know I broke the rules" he began. "Broke them?" Colwyn interrupted with a harsh laugh. "You shattered them as though they never existed! Lady Divwall will have to impose all manner of punishments on you to make sure other trainees don't take it into their heads to wander off and exercise their newfound skills." Kieran stared at the ground between his folded legs and swallowed. He was accustomed to punishment. Servants were punished all the time for just about any reason. In fact, there was only one punishment at this point that he truly feared and he did not want to voice it, just in case Colwyn had not thought of it. But his hopes were immediately dashed when Colwyn spoke again. "Most likely, you will be confined to Bright Isle until the winter at least and probably until next spring." Kieran's shoulders slumped. "Do you think she would forbid me to see Edouard?" he asked in a small voice. "She should." At Kieran's dismayed look, Colwyn relented slightly. "But even she can't defy Edouard if the prince directly orders you to attend him." Kieran felt a little encouraged, but it was clear that Colwyn was still upset. "My training must still come first," Kieran said carefully. "Edouard understands that. I can't be his Royal Wizard if I don't finish my training."

Colwyn stared. "Has Edouard offered you the position of Royal Wizard?"

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"No, but how else can I serve him directly once he becomes king?" Colwyn leaned back and continued to stare at him, dumbfounded. "What's wrong?" Colwyn's shock puzzled Kieran. It seemed like a perfectly reasonable solution to him. "Is this why you address Edouard by name now?" "No. We all started doing that in case we ran into anyone. We didn't want to give away who Edouard was." "I see." Colwyn scratched his head. "Kieran, do you understand that Royal Wizard is a title? The person holding that post becomes a ranking member of the court and has prestige and power in his or her own right. The king doesn't just give the job to whomever he likes. Wizards are nominated for the role by the Hall and by the more prominent lords and ladies. The king has to select someone who can administer to the court without causing undue conflict." "I thought the Royal Wizard was selected because he was the most powerful wizard in the kingdom." "That's one of the criteria, yes, but only one of them." Kieran frowned. "So you're saying that someone like me, of low birth and no family, has no chance of being nominated, so Edouard could never choose me." "I'm not saying that it would never happen, but" Kieran looked away, his eyes falling on Edouard once more. "I belong with him, Colwyn," Kieran said softly. The invisible tug he always felt compelling him toward Edouard pulled at his heart, making Colwyn's words even more painful. "I can be his friend, but I will have no reason to stay at his side if I am not the Royal Wizard. Don't you understand?" Kieran did not know how else to explain it. From the moment he met Edouard, the certainty that his destiny lay with the young prince was absolute. His devotion

to Edouard was even more a part of him than the wizard's powers that had brought him here.

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After a long silence, Colwyn spoke. "You are still young, Kieran. A month ago, we all assumed Edouard would be dead by next winter. Now, that's all changed. There may be more changes to come in the future. Be patient. As you said, it must all start with you completing your training." Kieran slowly nodded. "I will try to remember that." He got up and moved over to where Edouard was sitting by the fire with a blanket around his shoulders. "Come sit with me, Kieran," Edouard said. Kieran sat crosslegged beside him and Edouard snuggled against his side. "I need to fatten up!" he laughed. "I'm so thin, the cold just cuts right through me." Kieran put his arm around Edouard's shoulders. Over the past several days, he had gotten over his shyness about touching Edouard, just as he had gotten used to addressing him by his name. It felt comfortable now, holding Edouard's slender body against his. "If you keep eating like you did tonight, you'll put on weight in no time." Edouard laughed. "Everything just tastes so good! I've never had fowl that was so fresh before. The flavor was amazing." "Perhaps the poison deadened your taste buds," Landon said with a warm smile. Both he and Justus were smiling almost as much as Edouard. "Maybe." Edouard leaned his head on Kieran's shoulder. "But it doesn't matter anymore. I'm well now, once and for all." "Unless you catch a cold," Justus said. He draped another blanket around Edouard and Kieran. "And you should sleep now. This has been a strenuous day." "But I feel great!" Edouard protested. "Must I remind Your Highness that your care is still our responsibility?"

"Oh, very well," Edouard pouted, but he his lips kept twitching into a smile. "If you insist." "I do."

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Edouard stretched out on his side with the first blanket still wrapped around him. Kieran lay down close beside him and spread the second blanket over both of them. "I will help you keep warm," he said and wrapped his arms around Edouard, cradling the prince against his chest. "Thank you," Edouard murmured. Colwyn was watching them with his arms crossed, a faint look of disapproval on his face. "I don't think Colwyn approves of us sleeping like this," he said softly to Kieran. "I don't want to risk you getting sick again, after all we've been through to make you well," Kieran replied just as softly. "Colwyn just doesn't understand how important you are to me." "I hope you'll have time to come and see me when we get back to White Shores," Edouard murmured sleepily. "If not, you can come see me," Kieran whispered back. "You're not an invalid anymore." "That's right!" Edouard brightened for a moment and then his eyes drifted closed. "I've never been sailing on the lake. I wonder what it's like." Chapter 12: Final Betrayal "Lady Divwall, I found them!" Exhaustion and relief overwhelmed the excitement in Bodie's voice. "At last!" Divwall exclaimed. "Where are they?" "Just coming down from the high meadows south of the Estan Pass road." Divwall smoothed out the map on her desk and leaned over the indicated region. "Here?" she pointed.

Bodie scrubbed a hand over his eyes and glanced at the map. "I think so." He closed his eyes for a moment. "Oh!" "What is it?" "It's Lord Colwyn, I'm sure of it!"

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"Colwyn's with them?" Divwall straightened up in surprise. Not for the first time, she wished she could hear thoughts over the same distance she could project them. "Keep watching them for a moment." She closed her eyes and focused on Colwyn. The touch of his mind was faint, but he was someone she could always reach. Colwyn, she thought, look up and wave. She kept repeating the thought until Bodie cried out in surprise. "He just waved at me!" Divwall smiled and opened her eyes. "Good. He knows we've found them." She returned her eyes to the map. "At that distance, it will be a week before they get back to White Shores." "I don't think so, Lady Divwall," Bodie said uncertainly. "They don't have the litter anymore. They appeared to be making good progress. They're all riding." "All?" Divwall stared at him. "Including Prince Edouard?" "Yes." "That's very interesting." Divwall leaned back and folded her arms. Not only was Edouard still alive, he was apparently healthy enough to ride a horse. This was indeed an interesting turn of events. "Shouldn't we notify the king?" Bodie said tiredly. His shoulders were drooping, his posture radiating complete exhaustion. "Yes," Divwall said. She frowned at the thought, though. She could contact Imbario with her projected thoughts but she never enjoyed doing so. There was something vaguely unsettling about the contact with his mind. Nevertheless, it had to be done. She closed her eyes and mentally reached out, in much the same way that far-seers searched, and roamed the hallways of the royal

palace. It did not take her long to find him. Imbario's mind radiated a powerful aura.

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Imbario, she thought, Prince Edouard has been found to the South. He lives. As she had with Colwyn, she repeated the thought several times to make sure it got through. People not expecting her communications frequently failed to hear her, or simply failed to realize that they had. "Well, I'll follow that up with a map of his location on the next ferry," she said firmly. "Bodie, go sleep. You have done well." "Thank you, milady." As he left, Divwall made a mental note to have someone make sure he had not fallen asleep leaning against a wall somewhere. She removed pen and parchment from her desk to draw up a map to Edouard's location and his most likely route of return. As she did so, Divwall continued to wonder about the surprising information that Edouard was riding. Asita had reported to her privately that Colwyn suspected Kieran was taking Edouard to see the madrin. Had he succeeded? Divwall was beginning to burn with curiosity. She could hardly wait to pelt Colwyn and Kieran with questions. -o-o-o-o-oA pinched frown settled on Imbario's face. Divwall's message had reached him in the hallway outside Heston's study. It was just like Edouard to thwart his plans by continuing to refuse to die. Divwall had given only a vague indication where Edouard was, but she would undoubtedly follow up her mental communication with written details. Imbario paused to consider his options. His plans might be set back years if Edouard returned in better health. Of course, he could always poison the prince again, but a sudden decline in Edouard's health after returning to the palace would raise suspicions. No, he could not afford to wait. He needed to move forward with his plans now. Imbario knocked on the door to Heston's study and opened it without waiting for a response. Heston was alone; a sure sign that he was not working. He was frequently not working these

days. His concern for Edouard seemed to have finally overridden his sense of duty. The first words out of his mouth were telling. "Any news of Edouard?" Heston asked anxiously. Imbario closed the door behind him as he considered his reply. Heston did not look well. Others had remarked on it already. Perhaps now was the time "I have bad news, Your Majesty," he said gravely. Heston's face paled. "What is it?" His voice was filled with barely suppressed fear. "Edouard's party has been sighted, but Edouard" Imbario let his voice trail off sadly. "What about Edouard?" Heston cried. "It appears he might be much worse. Divwall was unable to convey more. He was very still in the litter." Heston staggered back and clutched the edge of his work table. "No! It can't be Edouard" His voice faded away but his mouth continued to work silently. His distress was exactly what Imbario needed. He stepped forward and put a comforting hand on Heston's shoulder. "It may be nothing, Your Majesty," he said and tightened his grip. As he did so, he murmured a spell. The dark words felt unpleasant and oily on his tongue and the flow of power left a burning tingle on his palm. But at the first touch of the spell, Heston went rigid. His eyes bulged and his mouth sagged open. "Your Majesty?" Imbario questioned in false alarm. Heston stared at him, unable to breathe. His face flushed and his hands clawed up to clutch at his chest. Then slowly, he toppled forward. Imbario stepped aside and let him fall. He watched Heston struggle to breathe with calm detachment. Only when Heston's bulging eyes began to go glassy did he go to the door and snatch it open with a shout.

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"Fetch the doctor! His Majesty is ill!"

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One startled guard outside the door dashed away in panic, shouting for Doctor Sefrin. The other hurried into the room and knelt beside the king. Imbario followed him. "I had just given him news of Prince Edouard and he collapsed. He has been under such strain." Imbario filled his voice with concern. "I should have considered his state of mind before I spoke." The guard said nothing as he felt for Heston's pulse at his throat before turning him carefully onto his back. "He's not breathing," the guard said, his voice shaking, "and his pulse is irregular." "Move aside!" Sefrin ordered as he charged suddenly into the room, the other guard on his heels. He immediately dropped down beside Heston to examine him. "He appears to have suffered an apoplexy," Sefrin said. "What happened?" "I had just told him that Prince Edouard has been located alive," Imbario lied calmly. "I should have thought more about the strain he's been under. He became overly excited and collapsed. I called for help immediately, but" Sefrin received this information in silence. His attention was focused on Heston. But even as he worked, Heston slowly went still, his glassy, unseeing eyes becoming fixed. Sefrin finally slumped back, a heartbroken sigh escaping his lips. "He must have been under a greater strain than I realized," he whispered. "I have been concerned, but I thought" He rubbed a hand over his eyes. "It is so sudden." Without looking at Imbario, Sefrin raised his voice. "You said Edouard has been found alive?" "Yes. I just received word from Lady Divwall. In the absence of his majesty to issue the order, I shall send members of the Royal Guard to intercept him." "Of course." Sefrin stared down at Heston's body. "I will make arrangements to preserve the king for his wake." "You do that." Imbario kept his voice low and sad. "Until Edouard returns, I will administer to the needs of the kingdom."

Sefrin nodded without answering. Of course, Imbario did not expect anyone to object. He was the most logical person to manage things in the absence of the king. And once he took up the reins, people would quickly become accustomed to taking his orders. It would not take much to convince everyone that he should continue to rule until Edouard was older. And then when Edouard's health began to deteriorate again, it would only be natural to make Imbario's rule permanent; a bloodless coup. Imbario stared down at Heston's body dispassionately. Heston had been an adequate king, but Imbario believed a kingdom should be governed and controlled by magic, not just protected by it. This step was necessary to create the sort of kingdom that he envisioned. "Please make the necessary arrangements at once, Doctor Sefrin. I will make a formal announcement and declare a day of mourning. But we must postpone the viewing until Edouard returns. He should be allowed to be the first to pay respects to his father."

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"Yes," Sefrin replied in a weary tone. "That is appropriate." He pushed slowly to his feet. "Find something to cover him and move him to his bedroom," he said to the stricken guards. "I will prepare his body there." Imbario oversaw the guards as they moved Heston's draped body to his bedroom and laid him out on the bed. "I want this door guarded at all times," he instructed. "Only I or Doctor Sefrin and his assistants are to be admitted." Now it was time to make an announcement. There would already be rumors flying. He would announce Edouard's imminent return at the same time to stave off panic. That would also allow him to quiet any calls for immediate appointment of a regent. He could reasonably argue that such a decision could and should wait until Edouard returned. Yes, his plan was shaping up very nicely. Very nicely, indeed. -o-o-o-o-o-o-o"Why are you waving, Colwyn?" Kieran asked curiously. The older wizard was grinning up at the sky, waving one hand back and forth using his whole arm.

"As I expected," Colwyn replied, "the far-seers have found us. Divwall just told me to wave." He dropped his arm. "I'm not sure if she'll be angry with you or impressed that they couldn't find you until after you dropped your illusion."

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Kieran ducked his head. He had not forgotten Colwyn's comment about Ma Bricker possibly being a rogue wizard. He understood now that being trained by a rogue wizard did not necessarily make him one, but it still made him uncomfortable. People did not trust rogue wizards and being tainted by such a reputation might only cause him trouble later. "I was just doing what I thought was right," he said. "I wanted to help Edouard." "I understand that. But as I said before: it was not your place as a trainee wizard to tackle such an undertaking without permission." Colwyn raised his voice slightly. "And you should have considered your importance to the kingdom as well before taking such a risk, Prince Edouard. Your life does not belong solely to you." Edouard inclined his head slightly and he smiled. "Chastise me all you want, Lord Colwyn, but I will never regret my decision. How can I? I have been given a future I never thought to see." "Yes, now that everything turned out for the good, you can say that," Colwyn replied sourly. "But you should still think about what might have happened." "I do," Edouard replied, his voice suddenly very grave. "But I also cannot help thinking about what might have happened had I remained at court. I would have died, Colwyn. That fate was inevitable had I not reached out for the chance Kieran offered me. We can debate this all day, but what's done is done. I'm well now. Once I return to court and find out who poisoned me, we will have nothing more to worry about." Colwyn fell silent, but Kieran could see he was still dissatisfied. Since Edouard was now well enough to ride, they had discarded the litter and Colwyn rode that horse bareback. Edouard rode behind Landon and Kieran rode behind Justus on the other two horses. With everyone riding, they were making good time. When they started out, Landon had estimated that they could return to White Shores in four or five days, depending on how long it took

them to reach either the Estan Pass Road or the King's High Road. According to his map, they were somewhere south and west of both roads. So they rode northwest to intercept either route, where they would be able to ride more swiftly. The morning had dawned crisp and clear, and it had warmed up quickly into a beautiful spring day. Quiet, soft-spoken Justus had teased Edouard that even the weather was celebrating his rebirth, making Edouard laugh. Every time Edouard smiled, Kieran's heart felt lighter. But Edouard was still very thin and rather weak. Although the madrin had cured him, its magic had not increased his body mass at all. His slight stature prompted Landon and Justus to continue to care for him as if he were still an invalid, which Edouard accepted with a gentleman's grace. Sometimes, he really did need the help, such as to mount the horse behind Landon. He simply did not have the strength for some activities. But he only complained about it privately to Kieran, never where Landon or Justus could overhear him. When they stopped at midday to eat, Landon made Edouard remain on the horse until Justus could lift him down. "Are you stiff at all, Highness?" Justus asked as he set Edouard on his feet. "A little," Edouard admitted. "But I'm sure I'll get used to it." "Would you like me to massage your legs?" "Not right now. Maybe when we stop for the night." "Very well, Highness." Kieran slipped his arm around Edouard's waist as Justus moved away to help Landon unpack their food. "You look like you're about to topple over." Edouard grimaced. "The inside of my thighs feels raw. Horses don't look that wide from the ground." Kieran chuckled. "I know what you mean. When Colwyn first found me and made me ride behind him, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to walk afterward. But you do get used to it." He urged

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Edouard to start walking. "You should walk to keep the muscles from stiffening."

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"What muscles?" Edouard grumbled. "I'm fairly convinced I have none." "You have something managing to keep you upright," Kieran laughed. "I think it's your arm." They both chuckled as Kieran guided Edouard back and forth at a slow walk to work out the kinks in his legs. Colwyn plopped down cross-legged on the ground and closed his eyes. "What's he doing?" Edouard pointed his chin at Colwyn. "Probably listening for Lady Divwall. He says it's easier to hear her if he shuts out other distractions." Kieran stopped next to the rounded hump of a boulder protruding up from the ground. "Sit here. It's probably better for you right now than sitting on the ground." Edouard settled carefully onto the rock and Kieran sat on the ground beside him. Colwyn remained seated where he was when Landon started handing out leftover roast fowl and slices of somewhat stale bread. "Hopefully, we will pass a village not long after we reach the road," Landon said, a little apologetically. "Our supplies are getting low" He was cut off by a gasp of horror from Colwyn. Colwyn's eyes flew open and he turned to stare at Edouard with an expression of shock and anguish. Edouard returned his stare in confusion, but it was Landon who spoke. "What have you heard?" the tall servant demanded. "King Heston" Colwyn began slowly. He stood up and approached Edouard, leaning over to rest his hands on Edouard's shoulders. "Forgive me for being the one to give you this news, Prince Edouard." His voice was strained. "But I just heard from Lady Divwall. This morning, your father suffered a stroke."

Edouard's face went pale. "I'm afraid I'm afraid he passed away. King Heston has died."

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The piece of bread Edouard was holding slipped unnoticed from his nerveless fingers. He stared up at Colwyn, his shocked eyes appearing to fill his face. "No!" he whispered. "I was going to show him I was going to walk up to him and smile" Edouard's voice sank to a hoarse whisper. "It can't be! It's not fair! He didn't get to see" He began to shake and tears welled up in his eyes. "He thinks I ran away from him! But I didn't! I was going to show him how I can walk" Edouard shoved Colwyn away. "You wizards should have protected him!" he cried. "He was your king! It was your duty!" He surged to his feet, his fists pressed against his chest. "It's not fair!" Suddenly, he sprinted away, running blindly across the meadow. "Your Highness!" Landon cried, but Kieran was already on his feet. "I'll go!" Kieran raced after Edouard. It took longer to catch up with him than Kieran would have expected, but he was finally able to grasp Edouard's arm. "Edouard, stop! You'll fall!" "I don't care!" Edouard shouted. "What does it matter?" Kieran skidded to a halt, pulling Edouard to a halt by the arm he was holding. Edouard struggled against the restraint, slapping and kicking at Kieran until Kieran jerked Edouard into his embrace and held him. Edouard tried once to escape and then sagged against him, sobbing. Kieran wept with him. Edouard's heartbroken cries stabbed his heart. "He's dead, Kieran! My father's dead! He never knew what happened to me! It's my fault!" "It's not your fault, Edouard." "But if I hadn't left" "You would have died and left him as heartbroken as you are now." "But" Edouard wept as though the world had ended. He sobbed until he had no tears left, but his body continued to shake as dry

sobs wracked him. Kieran finally eased to the ground and pulled Edouard into his lap so he could cradle him. Edouard was so slight it was like holding a child. Kieran rocked him, stroking Edouard's hair until finally his sobs ceased. Eventually, Edouard fell asleep in his arms, exhausted by his sorrow. From behind him, Landon spoke softly. "We will stay here tonight. Justus, build a fire. We must keep Edouard warm. I'll gather herbs for a sleeping draught. Edouard will need it if he wakes." Justus appeared with a blanket in his hands. He draped it over Edouard and Kieran moved his arms just enough so Justus could tuck it around the prince's body. Colwyn knelt down facing Kieran. "This is ill news," he said. "We must get Edouard back to court as quickly as possible. Political turmoil must be avoided at all costs. Divwall said the Royal Guards are riding out to meet us. Whatever his state of mind, come tomorrow morning, we must make a hard push toward White Shores." Kieran nodded without speaking. Even asleep, Edouard was still trembling slightly. Colwyn regarded him with an unreadable expression. "Kieran, I think no one, including myself, has any idea of the full extent of your abilities. With that in mind, I charge you to guard Prince Edouard with all the power you possess. He must not come to harm." Kieran returned his gaze unblinking. "Edouard is the most precious thing in the world to me, Lord Colwyn. No one will touch him." -o-o-o-o-o-o-oThe next few days passed in a blur for Edouard. No one spoke much as they pushed the horses to a gallop once they were on the King's High Road, which they found mid-morning the day after learning of his father's death. Landon led the way, maintaining a pace that ate up the distance without overly tiring the horses. Late in the afternoon on the second day, they were met by a contingent of the Royal Guards led by Captain Soleson.

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Soleson's face was strained and tired, but he dismounted quickly from his horse to drop to one knee beside Edouard's horse with his head bowed. "Your Highness, we have come to escort you back to the palace."

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Edouard could not answer him. Looking at Soleson reminded him of his father. His eyes grew moist and he looked away. "We know about the king," Landon said. "Lady Divwall sent word to Lord Colwyn." "Ah, yes." Soleson stood up. "The city is still in mourning. We have all suffered a terrible loss. I am most sorry Your Highness that I did not serve your father better." "What could you have done?" Edouard whispered. "He was ill. You could not guard against that." "But I allowed you to leave the palace, Highness," Soleson replied gravely. "In this I failed him and you as well." Edouard shook his head slightly. "I will not let you take the blame for my acts, Captain Soleson. If anyone is to blame for this, it's me." Landon shook his reins. "We should get moving. There's still daylight left." "Of course." Soleson swung back up onto his horse and issued orders. The prince's party resumed travel surrounded by Royal Guardsmen. They stopped for the night at a small inn a few days ride south of White Shores. The innkeeper was alarmed at first when the large party of soldiers appeared in front of his inn, but Landon quickly put him at ease. "We only need a few rooms, Master Innkeeper," Landon told him. "The soldiers will camp outside." "Ah, well, that's good then. I can provide food for all, of course," the innkeeper replied. "Moltby's Inn boasts the largest cellar

south of White Shores." He pointed a thumb at his chest. "I'm Moltby."

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Landon swung a leg over his horse's head and hopped down. "Very well, Moltby. We need these three horses tended and rooms for the five of us." He indicated himself, Justus, Edouard, Kieran and Colwyn as he lifted Edouard down from the horse. Edouard shuddered at the idea of being in a room by himself and he sidled closer to Kieran, but he did not have to say anything because Colwyn spoke up. "The boys can room together," he said. At Landon's raised eyebrow, Colwyn shook his head slightly. "They can keep an eye on each other." Landon lifted his chin, understanding blossoming in his eyes. "That's a good idea. In fact, it would be best if the rooms are all adjacent. Is that possible?" "I have three together, if two more of you don't mind doubling up." "That's fine. Justus and I will share a room." Moltby led the way into the inn. Edouard clasped Kieran's hand. "I don't want to eat with other people," he whispered. "Landon, is it all right if we eat in our room? Edouard's tired." Landon turned to look at Edouard. "Are you all right?" he asked in a low voice. "I just want to be alone," Edouard answered. He did not want to explain more. He could feel the tears welling up in him again. The closer they got to White Shores, the more real his loss seemed and the ache in his chest got worse. Landon just nodded. "Can you take us straight to our rooms, Moltby? We've traveled pretty far."

"Of course, sir. Right this way." Moltby led them up a flight of stairs and along a hallway leading into the back of the inn before stopping at a door. "These three here." He indicated that door and the next two down.

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"This is fine," Landon said. "If you don't mind, I'd like to get dinner on a tray for the boys." "Not a problem. I'll have something put together and bring it up straight away." "I'll come down for it," Landon said. "Very good, sir." Moltby bustled away. When he was gone, Landon turned to Kieran and Edouard. "Take the middle room. Bolt the door and only open it for one of us." Kieran nodded and took Edouard to their room. It was a simple inn room with a single bed just large enough to hold two people somewhat comfortably and a small table with two chairs. Once inside, Kieran bolted the door as instructed and then went to the small window. "What are you doing?" Edouard asked as he sank down stiffly on the bed. "Just making sure there's no ledge. People can't get in if there's nothing to hang on to." "It looks too small to climb through." "It is." Kieran turned to face him. "How do you feel, Edouard?" "I don't know." Edouard looked down at his hands resting in his lap. "My father's dead. I still can't really believe it. I don't know what I should be feeling." Kieran sat down on the bed next to him. "I never knew my parents. I was told they died, but I might have just been abandoned. That happens a lot when people are really poor. Sometimes they can't afford to keep all the children they have so they abandon them. I was lucky because I ended up serving Lord Inchor. At least I had a place where I belonged. But sometimes I

wonder what it would have been like to grow up in a family, with a father and mother."

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"I don't remember my mother," Edouard said softly. "It's always just been me and my father." He sniffed and a tear trickled down his cheek. "But now he's gone too. I just wish he could have seen me. It would have made him so happy to see me healthy and strong." He laughed bitterly. "Although I'm not really strong, am I?" "You will be." Kieran put his arm around Edouard's shoulders. "I'm sorry we did not get back in time." Edouard leaned against him. It was always comforting to feel Kieran's arm around him. "I'm afraid of what will happen when we get back. I'm too young to be king. I don't know how to run a kingdom yet." "I think you do. What else have you had to do all these years except study? Trust yourself, Edouard. I don't think there's anyone better suited than you to take your father's place." "Do you really believe that?" "Yes." Edouard sighed. There would be so much to do. His father's funeral would have to come first. Then there would be meetings with the bureaucrats and counselors. And he would have to meet with all the noble families. Thinking about it, for the moment, pushed his grief to the back of his mind. "I wish you could stay with me." "Colwyn told me to protect you and I will do so until I know you're safe," Kieran said. "Remember, there is still the question of who poisoned you. Until that question is answered, I will not leave your side." "Thank you." Edouard closed his eyes. Somehow, knowing that Kieran would be with him made his grief and the ordeal he had yet to face easier to bear. Chapter 13: Mourning

The prince's party arrived in White Shores to find the city draped in mourning. Black crepe hung from many balconies and the shutters of most windows were closed, despite the pleasant spring weather. People went about their business in a subdued manner and on street corners, small groups huddled in whispered discussions that quickly cut off when the soldiers rode by. If anyone recognized Edouard in the soldiers' midst, they gave no sign of it. But somehow, that did not surprise Kieran. Few people had probably ever seen Edouard in person and with his reputation as an invalid, no one would expect to see him on the back of a horse. They had made good time on their return to White Shores. It was late morning on the third day after they had met Captain Soleson and his guards on the road. They might have made it back to the city the night before had they pushed on after sunset, but Edouard had been too exhausted to continue. Of course, he had not said anything as he clung to Landon's back, but Kieran could see the numbing fatigue dragging at his limbs. At only the slightest word from Kieran, Landon had immediately called for a halt and they had camped by the side of the road for the night. But now Edouard was sitting up straight behind Landon, looking from side to side as they made their way to the palace. His expression was a mixture of sadness and wonder. "Do you know," he said to Kieran, "this is the first time I've really seen the city. Isn't it sad that my first memory of it will be one of mourning?" "There will be other memories," Kieran replied softly. "I know." Edouard looked ahead past Landon's shoulder. "I wonder what people will think when they see me." "Seeing you might offset the grief for some. For those who thought of your father only in terms of what he represented, seeing you in good health will be a relief, I think." "Perhaps." Edouard sighed softly. "What do you suppose they've done with Father?" Landon answered him. "Captain Soleson informed me last night that the viewing has been postponed until your return. You will be allowed to see your father in private."

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"Oh." Edouard fell silent.

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Kieran watched his face. Edouard had not wept since that night at the inn, when they had huddled together in the small bed and Edouard had whispered long into the night about all the things he regretted never having done. Many of his regrets centered on things a healthy boy might have done with his father. "I almost never said I loved him," Edouard had whispered, his tears clinging to his long eyelashes. "I think he knew," Kieran had answered him, wiping the tears from his eyes with a corner of the bed sheet. "If you had not, would you have tried so hard to stay alive?" Watching Edouard now, Kieran could see that the young prince was far from over his grief; he was simply holding it in. As they neared the palace, Edouard's face became increasingly stiff; his expression flattening into an unreadable mask. When they entered the wide courtyard, a swarm of servants and nobles came out to meet them. While the servants for the most part greeted Edouard's return with stately bows, many with tears in their eyes, the nobles shouted demands for information: Where had Edouard been? Why was he away from the palace at such a crucial time? What did he plan to do now? Abashed by the verbal assault, Edouard shrank against Landon's back, a look of panic in his eyes. Kieran scrambled down from behind Justus and touched Edouard's leg. "Ignore them," he said firmly. He held his arms up. "Get down." Edouard slid down into his arms. Almost immediately, Landon and Justus took up positions on either side of him. A moment later, Captain Soleson and a dozen Royal Guards had formed a protective shield around them. Soleson looked over his shoulder. "We'll take you to His Majesty, Highness," he said. "There will be no interference." His tone boded ill for anyone who stood too long in their path. He moved out at a firm march.

Only a few of the gathered nobles were foolish enough to try to impede them. But even those who quickly stepped aside continued to call out questions and demands. Some sounded frightened, but many just sounded angry, as if the king's death were somehow a personal affront. Kieran had to suppress the urge to growl. How could these people forget that Edouard had just lost his father? Like the city, the palace was draped for mourning. Black crepe hung in front of the windows and spring flowers had been replaced with white lilies tied with black ribbons. As they hurried through the corridors, Kieran caught wisps of conversation from the people they passed. "Look! The prince is walking!" "Who is that with His Highness?" "Is that Lord Colwyn?" When they finally stopped outside a guarded door, Edouard was trembling. Distracted by Edouard's distress, Kieran did not immediately see the handsome man in stately wizard's robes standing between the two guards. But then Colwyn stepped forward and offered the wizard a slight bow of his head. "Lord Imbario," Colwyn said. "I am surprised you did not greet us at the front entrance." Kieran studied the wizard in surprise. This was the first time he had seen Imbario and he was startled to recognize him. This was the wizard he had dreamed about shortly after meeting Edouard. "I did not care to be caught up in the rush of fools at the entrance," Imbario replied calmly. "And I knew you would come here first." He regarded Colwyn with a chilly expression. "But I am curious to learn how you came to be in Prince Edouard's company. Would you please elaborate?" "It's a long story and not important right now," Colwyn answered. "Prince Edouard is here to see his father." Imbario frowned slightly, but whether it was at Colwyn's words or the thought of Edouard visiting his father's remains, Kieran was

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not sure. "Of course," Imbario said impassively and he stepped aside. One of the guards opened the door as Edouard started forward, but then Imbario spoke again. "Perhaps I should accompany you, Your Highness" Edouard stopped in his tracks. "No!" he exclaimed sharply. "I want everyone to wait here, except for Kieran."

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At the mention of Kieran's name, Imbario's eyes snapped toward him. "Is this the trainee wizard I have heard so much about?" His intent gaze bored into Kieran's. "I have looked forward to making your acquaintance." "That can wait," Edouard interrupted. He glared at Imbario. "You may have had a few days to adjust to my father's death, but the loss is still fresh for me. I think perhaps it might be better for you to put aside your own interests for the moment and think of me." Imbario's face darkened with outrage, but he did not immediately respond. Instead, he studied Edouard carefully, his sharp eyes taking in the prince's confident stance and overall healthy appearance. "Your health seems much improved, Highness," was all he said. "It is," Edouard replied shortly. He grasped Kieran by the wrist and stepped toward the open door. "Now, if you will excuse us." He proceeded through the door without another glance at Imbario. As soon as they were inside and the guard had closed the door with a firm click, Edouard's shoulders slumped. "I hate that man!" he whispered harshly. "He was always coming between me and my father; never leaving us alone. Even now he tries to interfere." "It doesn't matter," Kieran said. He touched Edouard's arm. "Your father is there." He nodded toward the bed. Edouard's eyes went round and his face paled. He took a hesitant step forward and then another, slowly crossing the room until he was standing beside the large, ornate bed. Heavy drapes hung down from a railing bolted to the ceiling, but they were pulled back, bound to the large posts of the bed by velvet ropes so that the bed's occupant could be viewed. The late king lay in the center of the bed draped with a brocade coverlet. An embroidered

handkerchief covered his face. Edouard stood frozen for a moment before reaching out to lift the cloth from his father's face.

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King Heston had been preserved for his viewing, so his face was pale and bloodless, his lips slightly bluish. His closed eyelids were also tinged with blue and appeared sunken. Kieran knew it was customary for a corpse to have its face painted to make it appear more natural, but Heston had not yet been subjected to such treatment. His face was the face of a dead man. Edouard gasped softly. "He's really dead," he whispered faintly. A sob escaped him and he pressed his hands to his mouth. "My father's dead!" His voice echoed with emptiness and loss and he fell across the bed, his arms enclosing his father's still body. He began to weep, his cries as deep and heartbroken as they had been the day they first learned of Heston's death. Kieran empty Kieran and let rested a hand on Edouard's back, but he did not offer words of comfort. Edouard needed to let his grief out. understood that. So he simply waited at Edouard's side the prince weep.

But Edouard did not cry for as long as he had the first time. After just a few minutes, he lifted his tear-streaked face and turned to Kieran. "I want to talk to Doctor Sefrin. He will have tended my father. I want to know what he thinks of how my father died. And I need to have him examine me. If he declares me completely cured, no one will doubt it." Kieran frowned. "Is that necessary?" "Yes." Edouard pushed to his feet with a weary sigh. "Like Colwyn keeps saying: we must avoid political turmoil. If people think I am still unwell, they will push for a regent to be appointed. I don't want any more people telling me what to do. I haven't been crowned yet, but the day my father died I became king. This kingdom belongs to me now and I intend to govern it." He smiled sadly. "Didn't you tell me that you believed I am the perfect person for the job?" "Yes, I did say that," Kieran answered with a slight smile.

"Then it is time for me to start acting like a king. So, first I will talk to Doctor Sefrin. After that, the viewing must be held. My father is supposed to lie in state for seven days before he is interred. My coronation will be held the day after that. And then" Edouard trailed off and stared down at his father's face. "And then the hard work begins," he finished quietly. -o-o-o-o-oImbario drew Colwyn aside, a look of annoyance still pinching his features. "I demand to know what has transpired!" he said in a low, angry voice. "What has led to the improvement in Prince Edouard's health and how did you find him? And why did you not send word that you had located him?" Colwyn reined in his own annoyance. He refused to let Imbario's arrogance get to him. "I located Edouard the day before Divwall discovered us," he replied, "so my presence in his company was known fairly quickly. I'm sure Divwall must have sent a message to the court." "She did," Imbario sniffed, "but she neglected to mention that you had joined the prince." "I'm sure it was just an oversight." "Perhaps." Imbario's eyes flicked to the closed door of Heston's room. "I presume Divwall informed you of the king's death via far-speech." "Yes, she did." Without giving any sign that he was changing the subject, Imbario returned his gaze to Colwyn's face. "Were you aware that the wizard trainee Kieran was with Edouard?" Colwyn frowned slightly. He was not quite sure where Imbario's question was leading. "I did not know for certain until I found them, but I suspected that he might be." "I wonder that you did not make anyone else aware of your suspicion."

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"I was more concerned about locating his highness," Colwyn shrugged. "My speculations at that point were just that."

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"I see." Imbario smoothed the front of his robe. "And the improvement in Edouard's health?" Colwyn was not fooled by Imbario's apparently casual gesture. He understood at once that they were now at the question that was really what Imbario wanted to know. He had to stop himself from smirking. "It was amazing. Prince Edouard was cured by a madrin. He is no longer ill." Imbario's face went flat. He stared at Colwyn in silence for several seconds. "A madrin cured him?" His voice was curiously toneless. "Please explain that." "We had the good fortune to locate an adult animal. Kieran asked for its help and it complied by touching Edouard with its power. The contact cured him instantly." Imbario clasped his hands together, the fingers rubbing over each other in a scrubbing motion. "That is most astonishing," he said in the same toneless voice. "What good fortune for all of us." At that moment, Doctor Sefrin appeared, his face excited and anxious. "Is it true?" he demanded immediately. "Has Prince Edouard returned?" Colwyn turned to him with a smile. "Yes, it's true, Doctor. He is with his father now." "Of course." Sefrin turned worried eyes toward King Heston's room. "Is he well? I heard he was walking." "He is quite well, Doctor Sefrin," Colwyn informed him. "Truly? But how?" "Please excuse me," Imbario interrupted abruptly. "Now that Edouard has returned, there are arrangements to be made." He hurried away without any more explanation, his robe flaring out around him.

Sefrin ignored Imbario's departure and focused on Colwyn. "Please tell me what happened. I have feared so much for Edouard's life these past several days."

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"You needn't fear anymore, Doctor. Edouard was cured by a madrin. The wasting illness has left his body." Sefrin's eyes went wide. "A madrin? A living madrin? But I thought only wizards could touch living madrin." "Apparently, the creatures can control the effect of their power." Sefrin turned back toward the door, obviously torn by his desire to see Edouard and his unwillingness to disturb the prince in his moment of grief. "I need to examine him!" he exclaimed anxiously. He started when the door opened and Edouard emerged. He managed the barest sketch of a bow before dashing forward to grasp Edouard by the shoulders. "Your Highness! I have been so worried!" "I am sorry to have caused you concern, Doctor Sefrin," Edouard replied in a calm, clear voice. His eyes were red and puffy from weeping, but his expression was as calm as his voice. "I would like you to accompany to my room now. There are matters we must discuss." "Of course, Your Highness! I am at your disposal. But I would also like the opportunity to examine you, if you don't mind." Edouard nodded. "That is one of the things I want to discuss." He shifted his gaze to Colwyn. "I would like you to come too, please, Lord Colwyn. And you also, Captain Soleson." "Yes, Sire," Soleson replied with a quick bow. Colwyn just inclined his head without speaking. Edouard led the way to his room with Kieran walking beside him. Doctor Sefrin followed, his eyes shining at the sight of Edouard's firm, steady pace. Colwyn and Soleson brought up the rear. It was not until then that Colwyn realized that Landon and Justus had disappeared. He looked around, but the two servants were nowhere in sight. However, when they arrived at Edouard's room his confusion was answered. Justus himself opened the door as

they approached and the smell of food wafted out through the open door. Clearly, the two servants had left to prepare the room for Edouard's return. As soon as they were inside, Edouard signaled Justus to close and latch the door. "Doctor Sefrin," he began without preamble, "how did my father die?"

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"He had a stroke, Your Highness," Sefrin replied sadly. "I was not present when it occurred and by the time I reached him, he had already stopped breathing." "Was he alone?" "No. Imbario was with him. He said that his majesty was overcome and collapsed when he told him you had been found." Edouard frowned. "But that should have been good news to my father! Why would that make him collapse?" "Perhaps it put too much strain on his heart," Sefrin said. "I had not thought he was that distressed, but" Edouard glanced at Kieran, but it was to Sefrin he spoke. "Doctor, while we were away from the palace, Kieran discovered I had been poisoned." "What?" Shock washed all the color from Sefrin's face and he abruptly sat down in the nearest chair. "Poisoned? How? What kind of poison?" The questions shot out of him like arrows. "Mushroom poison," Kieran replied. "Probably an extract. I think it was administered to him sometime in the two weeks prior to our departure." Sefrin's stunned expression suddenly blossomed into understanding. "That explains it!" he cried. "All the symptoms were there! I should have seen it!" He suddenly slid off the chair onto his knees and bowed his head to the floor. "Forgive me, Your Highness! I failed you as a physician. I should have suspected poison. I was complacent because of the peacefulness of our kingdom. It simply did not occur to me"

"It's all right, Doctor," Edouard interrupted gently. He leaned over and patted Sefrin on the back. "Kieran believes it is due to your efforts alone that I survived repeated poisonings. He believes, and I concur, that whoever did this was trying to make my decline look natural and the result of a poor constitution. In essence, you saved my life because you kept me alive long enough for Kieran to take me to the madrin. Thank you." Sefrin looked up. There were tears in his eyes. "You are too generous, Highness." Edouard shook his head. "No, I'm not. It's the truth. But we are still left with the most important question. Who poisoned me? Who stands to gain if I die? Who gains if both my father and I are dead?" "Imbario," Colwyn stated flatly. Everyone turned to stare at him. Colwyn turned to Soleson. "Who has been running the kingdom since Heston's death?" "Imbario," Soleson replied gravely. His brow wrinkled. "He also urged against the appointment of a regent. He said there was no need to make a decision until Edouard returned." "But Imbario is the Royal Wizard!" Sefrin protested. "His duty is to protect the king. He would never do anything to harm Edouard." "Maybe not," Colwyn said, "but I think his office and his rooms should be searched. I'm going to send word of my suspicions to Divwall as well. We will need the support of the Wizard's Hall if we are going to charge him with a crime." "But there is no proof, Lord Colwyn!" Soleson objected. "I have to agree with Doctor Sefrin." "But I agree with Colwyn," Edouard interjected firmly. "Captain Soleson, I order you to search Imbario's chambers. Bring anything suspicious you find to Doctor Sefrin for testing. Doctor, I would like you to examine me now and make a public announcement about my health."

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Sefrin's worried frown did not leave his face as he followed Edouard into the bedroom, trailed by Justus.

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"Lord Colwyn, I really must protest!" Soleson continued as soon as Edouard was gone. "Lord Imbario has served this kingdom impeccably for years. To stain his reputation with such a vile suggestion is unthinkable!" Soleson shifted uncomfortably. "Given the history of antagonism between you and your father, one might question your motivation for making such an accusation." "Captain," Kieran said suddenly. "When you search Imbario's chambers, you should also look for madrin bone powder." "Why?" Colwyn demanded before Soleson could speak. "What makes you think he has madrin bone powder?" Kieran bit his lip. "I had a dream about Imbario once and in my dream, his scent was mingled with the scent of a madrin" Colwyn stared. For some reason, keeping a secret stash of madrin bone powder was something he would never have expected of Imbario. "If he has any, it will be very well hidden." "Perhaps a wizard should assist in the search," Kieran suggested. "He or she might be able to detect the traces of power from the powder." Colwyn smiled. "You never cease to amaze me, Kieran." He turned to Soleson. "The boy's suggestion is a good one. I'll have a wizard sent over from Bright Isle to assist you. And keep this in mind, Captain. If you find madrin bone powder, that is proof enough, even if you find no poisons. Madrin bone powder would have cured Edouard." Soleson's brows drew down into a stern expression. "I understand, Lord Colwyn. I will post guards to ensure nothing is removed from Imbario's chambers before your wizard arrives." "Thank you." Soleson bowed and left the room. When he was gone, Colwyn turned to Kieran.

"If Imbario really is responsible, Kieran, we must be extremely careful. He is a very powerful wizard. If he decides to attack Edouard directly, there will be little we can do to prevent it." Kieran shook his head slowly. "I can protect him, Colwyn. I know a spell that repels all other spells. If I cast it on Edouard, magic cannot touch him." Colwyn stared. "Where did you learn such a spell? Wizards have being creating spells like that for years but none has ever truly worked." Kieran ducked his head and flushed, a reaction that told Colwyn he was about to admit something he had been keeping to himself. "It's an extension of an illusion spell," Kieran admitted in a quiet voice. "It redirects power around a spot the way an illusion redirects light. I learned the basic spell from Ma Bricker a long time ago, but when I figured out how to anchor an illusion spell on Edouard, I realized I could do the same thing to anchor the power deflection spell." "Have you tried casting it on him already?" "No. The deflection spell really does deflect, so anyone else nearby might be struck by the spell intended for Edouard. I've been working on a way to make the spell absorb rather than deflect and re-radiate the attacking spell as light. I think I figured it out, but I haven't tried it yet." Feeling suddenly weak-kneed, Colwyn staggered to the couch and sat down. "May I ask when you've been working on this little problem of yours?" "I mostly thought about it when we were riding, or after dinner when everyone was just talking." Colwyn put his head in his hands. "Kieran," he said in a patient voice, "what you have just described is a well-known trait of rogue wizards. In fact, it is what distinguishes rogue wizards from the rest. Rogue wizards do not have to experiment to learn spells; they can simply think about it until they understand what

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must be done. The rest of us must learn spells by rote and then experiment to discover the effects of combining spells. That is what makes rogue wizards so powerful. There is almost literally nothing they can't do and it's nearly impossible for regular wizards to combat the spells they come up with." When Kieran did not answer, Colwyn looked up. The young man had a stricken look on his face. Colwyn chuckled. "It's rather amusing when you think about it. I put the fate of the kingdom in the hands of a rogue wizard." "I'm not a rogue wizard!" Kieran protested, but there was uncertainty in his voice. "No, you're not," Colwyn agreed, "not as long as your only goal in life is to serve Edouard." Colwyn pushed to his feet. "And with that being said, there is nothing left to do but test your spell and make sure it works the way you expect it to." He plopped a hand onto Kieran's shoulder and gave him a shake. "Don't fret, Kieran. I think the saints must be working in our favor to have placed the greatest wizard ever born in the body of someone born to serve." Chapter 14: Accusation Lady Divwall herself decided to come to the palace in response to Colywn's summons. She regarded Colwyn in silence while he explained his reasoning for thinking Imbario guilty of poisoning Prince Edouard and possibly killing King Heston. "Quite simply, no one else stands to gain anything if Edouard dies. He has no cousins. Heston's brother died before Edouard was born. And I heard my father say many times when I was growing up that he thought the kingdom would be better served if it were ruled by a wizard. He believed that a wizard would be better prepared to ensure an ongoing peace." "That's ridiculous!" Divwall snorted. "The kingdom has been peaceful for hundreds of years, ever since the Mailar royal family came into power." "But the family has dwindled over the centuries. There used to be half a dozen branches of the royal family. Now there is only

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Edouard. If the last member of the Mailar family were to die, who could step forward to take the crown without starting a civil war? Only a wizard."

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"And for that you are prepared to accuse Lord Imbario of murdering King Heston and attempting to murder Prince Edouard?" "My father has never hesitated to do what he thought was necessary." Divwall frowned. "I can see your argument, Colwyn, but the accusation alone is not sufficient. You have no firm proof upon which to base your argument. Making the accusation and then using that as the reason to search for proof is not just." Colwyn ground his teeth. Divwall was right, of course. But if they could not search for the proof, what was to keep Imbario from trying to poison Edouard again? "You really believe him guilty," Divwall stated. "I do." Colwyn met Divwall's gaze evenly. "I have never trusted my father's motives. But I have other reasons to suspect him. Kieran thinks he has been using madrin bone powder." "What?" "But you will probably lend that little credence as well. Kieran arrived at this conclusion because of a dream." Divwall sat forward. "He dreamed it?" she demanded intently. "When? What did he dream?" Colwyn started. "I don't know when. Kieran said he had a dream in which he smelled the scent of a madrin on Imbario." "Indeed?" Divwall sat back, her gaze turning inward. Colwyn stared at her in surprise for several seconds. "What is it?" he finally demanded. Divwall tapped her fingers on her knee. "When Imbario came to Bright Isle to study Kieran, he demanded that I arrange for him

to meet with all the wizards who had studied him previously. He left Bright Isle before speaking to anyone because of Edouard's disappearance, but I decided to go through with the interviews anyway. I spoke to everyone who spent time with Kieran and got his or her honest assessment of his skills." Divwall fixed her eyes on Colwyn. "Did you realize the boy is probably a rogue wizard?" Colwyn flushed slightly. "I recently came to that conclusion, yes." "Were you planning to tell me?" "Lady Divwall," Colwyn began, "Kieran is utterly devoted to Edouard. His only desire is to serve and protect him. Under the circumstances, I thought having a rogue wizard dedicating all of his skill and attention to protecting our ruling sovereign wasn't necessarily a bad thing." Divwall smirked. "Perhaps not. But we are going to have to keep a very close eye on him." "That was my intention. But about Imbario" "I cannot condone a search of his quarters." "But Edouard has already ordered Soleson to do it!" "Then that is the business of the crown." "But a wizard is required to detect whether or not madrin bone powder is present. If we do not participate, Soleson may find nothing." "Soleson may find nothing because there is nothing to find." Colwyn clenched his fists on his knees. "To whom do we owe our allegiance, Divwall? You say that the Wizard's Hall serves the crown. If we reject his orders because one of our own stands accused, how does that make us look? Imbario's position does not put him above suspicion." Divwall sighed. "Very well. If you suggest to Edouard that he have the quarters of all senior members of the court searched, I will assist Captain Soleson."

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Colwyn jumped to his feet. "At once, my lady." -o-o-o-o-o-

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King Heston's body lay in state in the center of the front hall. For seven days and nights, the wide front doors would stand open, allowing a long queue of citizens to wind past the bier and pay their final respects to the king. Heston's face and hands had been carefully painted to impart a natural color. He was dressed in his finest clothes and was draped in an embroidered brocade cloth. His hair had been combed with oil and was held in place by a simple gold circlet with a single ruby that rested in the center of his forehead. He looked peaceful as he lay there under the light of six bright oil lamps. As the mourners filed past, each person was allowed a moment to bow or kneel and say a prayer. Two guards stood on either side of the small red rug where the mourners were allowed to stop. Rows of guards stood on both sides of the queue, keeping the line organized and moving. As the mourners wound past the bier, they were directed back out through the wide doors, across the courtyard and out of the great gates. Edouard and Kieran watched the mourners from a hidden alcove overlooking the front hall. Edouard had been the first to kneel down beside his father's bier, before the front doors had been opened and the first of the mourners had been allowed to enter. But then he had insisted that no citizen be given preferential treatment. He had ordered the nobles to line up with the commoners to pay their respects and prominent men were to be given no more time on the red rug then humble ones. This had caused a great deal of grumbling among the nobility and quite a few had made remarks about not attending the viewing at all. But Edouard clearly did not care. He watched the viewing in silence Kieran also remained silent. He was content just to be with Edouard. Since returning to court three days ago, he had been at Edouard's side nearly continuously. They ate together; he stood behind Edouard's chair in meetings; and he slept in a chair in Edouard's bedroom at night. At Divwall's insistence, the search of Imbario's rooms had been widened into a general search of the palace. She had summoned several more wizards to court to participate, with instructions that

they were to use their senses to search for traces of hidden spells. Edouard and Heston's rooms had been searched first, followed by Imbario's and the most senior nobles at court. Imbario had been offended of course, despite Divwall's reasoned explanation that it was simply to give Edouard peace of mind as he assumed power. But nothing was found. No traces of poison or hints of hidden power were discovered during the search. Kieran glanced at Edouard. He looked tired. "It's nearly time for dinner, Edouard," he said quietly. "We should go." Edouard sighed. "I hadn't thought so many people would show up. Was my father really that popular?" "Your father was a good king." "But you said before that life for servants is hard." "It can be, if your master is hard," Kieran replied. "But peaceful times make rich men richer and rich men tend to be good masters. And even difficult masters still feed and clothe their servants." Edouard turned to study his face. "You really didn't mind being a servant?" "No. But I'm happier now." Edouard smiled. "Whenever we talk, you make me appreciate my life more." Kieran returned his smile. "Shall we go to dinner?" "Yes. I'm sure Landon will have stern words for me for wandering off again." "You're the king. Shouldn't you be allowed to do as you please?" Edouard laughed, the first time Kieran had heard that sound from him in days. "The king is the last person who gets to do as he pleases. There are too many duties and obligations to just do as I want." He suddenly grew serious. "But in some things, I shall do

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as I please," he continued in a harsher tone. "I am going to replace Imbario as the Royal Wizard." He slipped out of the alcove and they headed for his rooms.

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As they traversed the hallways, nobles offered bows and curtsies as Edouard passed. Some of the genuflections looked stiff and forced. Others seemed genuine and heartfelt. Kieran could not help but watch the nobles who seemed reluctant to offer their obedience to their new king. He had not yet attached the protection spell to Edouard, so he was always alert for the sense of power nearby. None of these nobles were wizards; nonetheless, he watched them closely, trying not to let his suspicion show on his face. His mere presence had already offended a number of nobles, who did not seem to understand why the prince needed a low-born trainee wizard as his constant companion. When they arrived at Edouard's rooms, Kieran was glad to see Colwyn there. He immediately approached the older wizard while Edouard stopped in front of Landon with a guilty expression. "Colwyn, I want to put the spell on Edouard tonight." Colwyn frowned. "Are you sure it's ready? I told you: Imbario will very likely be able to sense it. I don't want to arouse his suspicions." "He won't sense it," Kieran said confidently. "Watch." He reached out and rested his fingers lightly on the top of a table. He spoke the spell under his breath and felt the power flow out of his fingertips. It settled around the table and sank into the wood. He glanced at Colwyn. "Can you sense it?" Colwyn's brow wrinkled in concentration as he focused on the table. "No. How did you do that?" "I bonded it into the wood. Try a spell." Kieran moved away and crossed his arms. Colwyn raised his hand and invoked his witch fire. The ball of flame sparkled pure white above his palm for a moment and then turned a deep red. Kieran recognized the spell even as he felt the intense heat radiating from the red flame. Colwyn tossed the fire

at the table. The instant it touched the wood, the flame disappeared in a flash of light. Colwyn stared.

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"That's exactly how it will work on Edouard," Kieran said. "I can bond it into his flesh. If a spell of any kind touches him, it will disappear in a flash of light." Colwyn stepped forward to touch the table. There were no scorch marks or any sign that the table had been attacked with fire. He pressed his hand flat against the surface and closed his eyes. "I can feel it now," he said. He whispered to himself and then snatched his hand away with a yelp. "What was that?" Kieran grinned. "You tried to break it, didn't you?" "Yes." Colwyn stared at him suspiciously. "What did you do?" "The spell is still linked to me," Kieran said. "When you tried to break it, I cast your spell back at you as pain." Colwyn stared. "I should be able to feel it if the spell is linked to you." "Why?" Kieran asked with a shrug. "The link doesn't require power to maintain. It just is." Colwyn shook his head with a rueful smile. "I keep forgetting that you're a rogue. Half the things you do are beyond me." Kieran frowned at the word rogue. "I wish you wouldn't say that," he said uncomfortably. "It makes me feel like I'm dangerous." "You are dangerous, Kieran," Colwyn said. He put a hand on the young man's shoulder. "It's important for you to never forget that. Your abilities already exceed those of many of your instructors and peers, yet you have only just begun training. You will only become more powerful over time and your conscience alone must keep it in check." Kieran shook his head slowly. "Not just my conscience." He glanced at Edouard, who was still receiving a stern lecture from Landon. "I will never do anything to make Edouard angry with me. You may rely on that."

Edouard finally escaped from Landon and came over to the two wizards. "Well, that was much worse than I expected. He was quite put out with me. What have you two been talking about? It looked like you were doing magic." "We were," Colwyn said. "Edouard, we would like to put a spell on you."

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"What kind of spell?" Edouard looked from one to the other uncertainly. "What will it do to me?" "Protect you," Colwyn said. "Kieran has come up with a way to protect you from magical attacks. We just tested his spell and I am satisfied with it. With your permission, I would like him to cast it on you." "A spell?" Landon interrupted abruptly. "I don't like that idea. And why is it necessary? No wizard would dare attack Edouard." "We think no wizard would dare attack Edouard," Colwyn replied. "But I would prefer not to find out we're wrong because Edouard is injured or killed. The spell will have no effect on him unless he is attacked." Edouard looked at Kieran. "You made this spell?" "Yes." Edouard nodded. "Very well, I agree." "Edouard!" Landon exclaimed. "It will be all right, Landon," Edouard said calmly. "I trust Kieran. If he says it will protect me and do me no harm, I believe it." The simple statement filled Kieran with sudden warmth. Edouard's trust was as precious to him as his friendship. He stepped forward and pressed his fingers gently against Edouard's forehead. He whispered the spell and felt the power sink into Edouard's skin, infusing the flesh beneath. Edouard shivered and drew in a soft breath. "Is that it?"

"Yes." Kieran stepped back and lowered his hand. "If someone tries to touch you with magic, there will be a flash of light." Kieran glanced at Landon. "You should tell Colwyn and Lady Divwall at once if you ever see flashes of light around Edouard. It means someone is trying to use magic on him." "Any kind of magic?" Justus asked. Any kind," Kieran acknowledged. "Good or bad, no magic can touch Edouard now." Landon grunted. "Perhaps that is a good thing," he admitted grudgingly. "It's time to eat," Justus said.

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Edouard, Kieran and Colwyn sat down to eat while Landon and Justus attended them. Kieran felt much more relieved now that his spell was merged with Edouard. He had not told Colwyn this, but his link with the spell on Edouard had one added benefit: he would always know exactly where Edouard was. His emotional bond with Edouard had always given him a sense of Edouard's presence, but he could never have used it to find Edouard if they were separated. But the link with the spell was absolute. He could find Edouard anywhere in the world now. -o-o-o-o-o-o-oOn the eighth day, Heston's body was removed from the front hall and placed in a carved and painted wooden casket with gold leaf trim. The procession to escort his remains to the royal crypt took nearly two hours to organize, despite days of planning. The first to exit the hall was an honor guard of twenty Royal Guards, the polished tips of their spears gleaming in the morning sunlight. Next came twenty-four royal wizards in flowing, snow-white robes with royal purple trim. These were followed by fifty palace footmen in royal livery, each one carrying a basket of white lilies. Ten young women in long white gowns followed the footmen, scattering flower petals on the ground as they walked. Behind them came Imbario, dressed in sweeping white and purple robes. Heston's casket, carried on the shoulders of eight Royal Guards, came next. Behind the casket, Edouard walked alone. He was followed by a second honor guard of another twenty Royal

Guards. Behind Edouard's honor guard were another twentyfour royal wizards. The wizards were followed by nobles, palace bureaucrats and finally several dozen more palace servants. Walking two by two, except for Imbario and Edouard, the entire procession took over an hour to leave the palace.

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Kieran was not part of the procession. Edouard felt lost without the young wizard beside him. He had become so accustomed to Kieran's company, his absence touched Edouard deeply. Walking alone behind his father's casket, he held his head up and tried to maintain a solemn expression. He had managed so far to restrain his tears, but it was difficult. Once again, he felt his father's loss keenly. Before the procession had started, Imbario had suggested, in what Edouard felt was a show of false concern, that Edouard ride rather than walk like everyone else. "It is a long way to the crypt," he had said in a fatherly tone. Edouard had declined. He suspected that Imbario only wanted to make him look like he was still an invalid in front of White Shore's citizens. So now he strode steadily over the smooth cobblestones trying to look strong and healthy while he restrained his grief. It would have been easier if Kieran had been with him. The royal crypt stood on a hill overlooking White Shores. At one time, it had been outside the city, but centuries of growth had finally surrounded it. It now stood in a park with several dozen more crypts on the slopes of the hill below it. The procession wound through the city, into the park and up the hill. At the top, the Royal Guards separated to form a path to the crypt. The wizards formed a second rank inside the guards. The footmen filed around behind the guards and placed the lilies in four large marble vases on either side of the entrance. The women scattering flowers went all the way up to the steps leading into the crypt before they drew aside, allowing Imbario to be the first to mount the steps to the thick iron doors. He produced the key to the crypt from under his robe and unlocked the heavy iron clasp sealing the door. Two guards stepped forward to pull the doors open, revealing the dark interior. Imbario whispered a spell and the torches inside sprang to life, shedding golden light over the shimmering white marble that lined the floors, walls and ceiling. Then he stepped aside and allowed the casket to enter.

The royal crypt had originally been a single large, circular room. A carved stone platform stood in the center of the room to receive the casket of the most recently deceased king. The deep stone walls of the crypt contained dozens of burial niches to hold the remains of previously deceased kings and other members of the royal family. Carved stone markers were embedded in the walls giving the names and life spans of the occupants of each niche. But centuries of rule by the current royal family had long since outstripped the planned capacity of the crypt, so it had been expanded decades before by adding a long hallway opposite the entrance containing hundreds of additional burial niches. Heston's ultimate resting place would be somewhere far down the hall, but for the next year he would remain on the platform in the center of the crypt to allow family members to visit him for a year of mourning. The pallbearers settled Heston's casket onto the platform as Edouard entered the crypt. He had never been in the crypt before, since his mother had died when he was born. The solemnity of the room immediately weighed down on him. He had thought he had accepted that his father was dead, but the cold marble echoed finality. He dropped to his knees as tears sprang into his eyes. No one spoke as he knelt there. It was for him to decide when the procession was over, so they waited in silence as he wept. Edouard did not know how long he knelt there, but when he finally rose, the sun was well up and the tail end of the procession had crowded onto the hill. As he turned to leave, the pallbearers filed out ahead of him. Imbario was still waiting outside the door on the top step. Edouard stopped. "Please give me the key," he said quietly. A slight frown wrinkled Imbario's brow. "It has always been the responsibility of the Royal Wizard to keep the key to the royal crypt. It is a duty of the Royal Wizard to protect the crypt from looters." "I know, but I will wish to visit my father upon occasion and I would prefer not to have to track you down first." Edouard held his hand out expectantly.

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Imbario's frown grew more pronounced as he produced the key and placed it in Edouard's palm.

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"I will of course return it to the Royal Wizard when the year of mourning has ended," Edouard said. He ignored Imbario's sharp stare as he started down the steps to begin the long walk back to the palace. He was immediately flanked by Royal Guards, who remained with him until he re-entered the front hall of the palace. As soon as they left him, however, Imbario appeared in front of him, the sharp glare still on his face. "Prince Edouard," Imbario said, his tone stiff with irritation, "Your statement seems to imply that I will not be the Royal Wizard a year from now." "That is correct," Edouard replied, keeping his voice calm despite the way his heart was pounding. He met Imbario's angry gaze evenly. "I have given it much consideration and have decided that I would like to choose a Royal Wizard whose temperament more closely suits mine. You served my father well for many years but I think, with the change of rule from my father to me, that a change in Royal Wizard is also appropriate." Imbario's face flushed with outrage. "You cannot simply dismiss a Royal Wizard, Prince Edouard!" he snapped. "The appointment is for life, just as you are granted your crown for life!" "I realize that has been the case so far," Edouard interrupted, "and that my decision has no precedent. Nevertheless, that is my decision. I will be accepting recommendations for your successor immediately after the coronation. Now if you will please excuse me." Edouard stepped past him and headed for his rooms. He was desperate to see Kieran. "Prince Edouard!" Imbario roared behind him. "This discussion has not ended!" Edouard ignored him and kept walking. He had to fight the urge to run. "Edouard." The sound of Kieran's voice brought Edouard up short.

"Kieran!" Edouard almost gasped his name. "Let's go to my room." Kieran fell in step with him and they hurried back to Edouard's rooms. As soon as the door was closed behind them, Edouard flung his arms around Kieran's shoulders. "I told him!" he cried. "I told Imbario that I was going to replace him!" "Good," Kieran said. His voice was firm and quiet and it immediately soothed away the panic Edouard felt. His arms tightened around Edouard's waist. "You should make him move to Bright Isle, too. I don't want him near you if I'm not here." "Banish him?" The thought made Edouard giggle. He could just imagine the look of shock and outrage on Imbario's face. "I don't know if I can do that. I think the Wizard's Hall would have to recall him." "But I still think you should do it." Kieran looked into his eyes. "You don't need any wizard but me." Edouard blinked back at him, momentarily at a loss for words. It was true, even though he had never really thought of it that way. He did not need any wizard but Kieran. Kieran had done more for him than any other. "But you can't be the Royal Wizard until you've finished training at the Wizard's Hall." "I know." Kieran nodded. "But when I have finished, I will come back to serve you. That's all I want to do." Edouard smiled. That was what he wanted as well. "It's agreed, then. When you finish your training, I'll summon you back to court and you will become my Royal Wizard." Chapter 15: Imbario's Wrath Colwyn stood just inside the main entrance to the palace watching the bustle in the front hall. The last traces of King Heston's viewing had finally been cleared away. To all outward appearances, the palace had returned to normal, but there was an undercurrent of tension that was almost palpable. "Colwyn!" Colwyn turned at the sound of his name to find Lady Divwall striding purposefully toward him across the courtyard with a

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sharp scowl on her face. Colwyn suspected he knew what she was angry about, but he said nothing as she stamped up to him.

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"What is this nonsense about Edouard replacing Imbario?" she demanded without preamble. "I know no more about it than you do," Colwyn answered in a reasonable tone. Divwall's brows drew down even farther. "You did not put him up to it?" "No, I did not. I am as surprised as you are." "Surprised?" Divwall exploded. "I'm shocked!" As several startled servants turned to stare at her, she lowered her voice. "Removing a Royal Wizard is unprecedented! Why would such a thing even occur to Edouard?" Colwyn shrugged. "Edouard doesn't like Imbario. They've never gotten along very well. It makes sense to me that he would want someone he can work with. He's going to be king for a long time." "That's right! So there is no need to replace Imbario. He'll have his chance to choose another Royal Wizard when Imbario dies." "Yes, in thirty or forty years. Have you forgotten he is younger than you?" "That's beside the point," Divwall began, but Colwyn interrupted her. "But that's exactly the point, Divwall! Edouard is very young and until quite recently did not expect to live much longer. He is still getting used to the idea of living a long time. The prospect of facing that future with a Royal Wizard he despises must seem like more of a curse than a blessing." Divwall fumed silently for a moment. "I take it you support him in this." "It's Edouard's choice," Colwyn replied. "And if Imbario cared about the kingdom at all, he would step down voluntarily and

allow Edouard to govern the kingdom under the guidance of someone he trusts."

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Several servants were still watching them curiously, although no one was audacious enough to get too close. Divwall looked around at their impromptu audience and grasped him by the arm. "Let's speak outside. I would prefer not to be overheard." Colwyn followed her outside. Divwall walked well out into the courtyard until they were surrounded by an empty expanse of flagstones before turning to face him. "Do you still believe that Imbario had something to do with Edouard's illness?" "Yes, I do," Colwyn said with a firm nod. "Kieran detected poison in Edouard's body. I cannot think of any other plausible explanation for how it came to be there." "I can think of several," Divwall snapped. "I have given it some thought since we last talked. Just because the kingdom is peaceful does not necessarily mean everyone is happy. And as you pointed out already, Edouard is the last of his line. It doesn't take much imagination to envision one or two noble families deciding it's time for a new royal family to come into power." "True," Colwyn replied, "and I would have considered that myself if I had heard even the faintest rumor of dissension among the nobility. But they are all fat, rich and content. Why shake things up?" "For the chance to rule the kingdom?" Divwall lifted her chin. "It has been my experience that some nobles remain greedy no matter how much they have." Colwyn smirked. "My point exactly. Imbario is both a nobleman and the most powerful wizard in the kingdom. As Royal Wizard, he has come the closest to tasting the king's power. Do you think him somehow immune to the temptations of greed?" Divwall pursed her lips. "I should not have left so soon after the funeral," she muttered. "I should have stayed to talk to Edouard. I do not know the boy as well as I should." "I don't think any of us do," Colwyn answered her even though he knew she was talking to herself. "At this point, Kieran is probably

the one who knows his mind the best. I know Edouard confides in him."

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"Then we should speak to them both. And I will also speak to Imbario to learn his opinion in the matter, although I imagine I already know what it is." Divwall grinned humorlessly. "Whether or not he seeks the throne for himself, he will certainly have no interest in giving up the power he currently holds in the kingdom." Colwyn nodded in agreement. He had no doubt his father would fight to retain his position. Looking at Divwall's irritated frown, Colwyn wondered if he should tell her about the protective spell Kieran had put on Edouard. He and Landon had decided they should keep it a secret. Landon's reason was rather straightforward. In his mind, it was quite simply a trap. That was partly Colwyn's reason as well, but he also had another more compelling reason. He was not ready for anyone else to recognize the full extent of Kieran's powers. Colwyn was starting to believe that Kieran could do anything he thought of, which would make him the most powerful rogue wizard in living memory. That kind of power would inspire fear and he could not afford to have wizards acting out against Kieran while he was still serving as Edouard's shield. "We should probably wait until after the coronation to talk to Edouard about this," he said finally. "He has a lot on his mind right now and I'm not sure he's ready to listen to reason." "Very well." Divwall made a face. "I suppose I had better stay at court until after the coronation. I'll have to have someone bring me a few things from Bright Isle." She lifted her gaze to the glistening walls of the palace. "Edouard is so young," she murmured. "I wonder if he is ready to be king." Colwyn clasped her shoulder and squeezed gently. "Have faith in him, Divwall. He is one of the most intelligent people I have ever met. With our support, he cannot help but succeed." Divwall grinned at him. "You're something of an idealist, Colwyn! I never noticed that trait in you before."

"Didn't you?" Colwyn chuckled. "Who else but an idealist would spend his life chasing after madrin trying to prove they are intelligent?"

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Divwall laughed. "Who indeed? Come; show me to a comfortable room since I must reside here for a few days." She caught his arm and started back toward the palace. "And since I am here, I think I would like to see Kieran alone. I haven't had the chance to question him yet about what he's been up to." "Can't that wait?" Colwyn kept his voice level. "Once Edouard has been crowned and the issue about the Royal Wizard resolved, Kieran will return to the Wizard's Hall. He will be completely at your disposal then." "I'm not sure I want to wait." Divwall's face grew thoughtful. "He is the first rogue wizard I've met who has not had his powers bound. The opportunity he represents for learning about magic and what makes us wizards is incredible." "We only think he might be a rogue, Divwall. There's no proof. In fact, we usually reserve the rogue designation for wizards who have harmed others with their power. I doubt Kieran would ever do that. He is completely obedient to Edouard's will and Edouard is far too compassionate to wish harm on others." "That may be true today," Divwall acknowledged quietly, "but it could change when Kieran gets older and his relationship with Edouard changes. We can't rely on that." "Kieran won't change unless we force him to, Divwall. He's a good person. As long as we trust him, I think he'll stay that way." Divwall glanced at him. "I get the distinct impression there's something you're not telling me." Colwyn shook his head with a rueful smile. "You always could see through me," he said. "There is something I'm keeping to myself right now, but I promise I will tell you once the situation becomes clearer." "I'm holding you to that." "I understand."

-o-o-o-o-o-

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There was no set timeframe after a king's funeral in which the coronation of his successor was to occur. In general, it usually took place within the week. But Edouard was anxious to get it over with, if for no other reason so people would quit fumbling around about whether to call him "Your Majesty" or "Your Highness". And he was ready to get on with the business of running the kingdom. Working occupied his mind and kept him from brooding about his father or the increasingly annoying Imbario. "You're fidgeting, Edouard," Justus murmured. "Sorry!" Edouard stiffened, holding his arms out so Justus could drape the large, full-length coronation cape neatly over his shoulders. He smiled suddenly when he realized he could not have held such a stance a few months before. "What are you smiling about?" Kieran asked curiously. Edouard turned his smile on the young wizard. "I was just thinking that before I met you, I could not have stood like this. It seems so strange sometimes." Kieran returned his smile. "It's good to see it." "There," Justus said and stepped back. Edouard carefully lowered his arms, allowing the cape to flow neatly down his sides. "Don't walk too quickly or make sudden turns," Justus advised, "or it will slip out of place." "Can't I wear a clasp or something?" "This will hold it," Landon said. He stepped forward with a heavy necklace of gold medallions. Edouard's eyes widened. "I can't wear that! It weighs more than I do!" "It is the coronation ceremonial necklace," Landon replied gravely. "You have to wear it until the crown is placed on your

head. After that, it will be returned to the vaults until your successor needs it."

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"Oh dear!" Edouard exclaimed. He watched apprehensively as Landon lifted the necklace over his head and settled it onto his shoulders. It proved to be every bit as heavy as he feared and he sagged under the weight. Kieran immediately stepped to his side and touched the necklace with a fingertip. Instantly, the weight of the necklace was reduced to a more bearable pressure. "You put a spell on it!" Edouard accused with a good-natured smile. "Yes, I did!" Kieran admitted with an answering smile. Landon frowned. "That necklace is over a thousand years old," he exclaimed sternly. "I trust your spell will do it no harm." "It won't." Kieran put on a serious expression. "I just don't want Edouard to become tired before the ceremony is over." Landon's expression softened. "I know everything you do is for Edouard's benefit, Kieran, I just want you to always think through to the final consequences of your actions." "I understand, Landon," Kieran replied gravely. "Good. Then it is time to begin." The coronation was to be held in the Formal Court, the largest room in the palace and one which could easily hold all of the palace's residents, down to the lowliest kitchen servant. Four sets of wide doors gave entrance to the Court. Opposite the doors was a raised dais where the members of the royal family sat to greet official guests. But today only one massive gilded chair sat on the dais, where Edouard would sit to be crowned. Landon led the way from Edouard's rooms to the Court, accompanied by an escort of six Royal Guards. At Edouard's insistence, Kieran had also been dressed in formal court attire for the occasion and he walked behind Edouard as they entered the hall. A flurry of whispers rose as they entered. The Court was packed full and people strained to see. Landon stepped aside as soon as they were inside the doors and Kieran stopped beside him, leaving Edouard to walk to the dais with only his guards. At the

foot of the dais, the guards peeled off to either side and formed ranks as Edouard mounted the steps. At the top, he turned to face the crowd.

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Then Imbario stepped forward from the back of the dais with the royal crown in his hands and another flurry of whispers surged up. Imbario raked the crowd with an implacable stare and silence fell. He turned to Edouard and bowed. "The death of a king is the end of an era," he intoned in a deep voice. "But with each ending is a new beginning. We give thanks for the beginning of a new era and rejoice at the crowning of our new king: His Royal Majesty Edouard Antonio Mailar." Imbario straightened and stepped forward to carefully place the crown on Edouard's head. The weight of the crown, beaten gold with diamonds and emeralds embedded in it, was greater than the ceremonial necklace. Edouard had to struggle to keep his head level. But fortunately, since the crown was now on his head, he was allowed to sit, so he sank into the chair and leaned back, letting the crown rest against the back of the chair. Imbario stepped back and lifted his arms and the crowd broke into applause. Edouard let them cheer for awhile before lifting his hand for silence. "My lords and ladies, citizens of White Shores: my father's unexpected demise has placed the burden of your care on my shoulders, but I accept this burden with honor and humility. Please be assured that I shall acquit my duties and obligations to this kingdom with the utmost diligence." His brief statement was greeted with a momentary silence and then the audience broke into cheers once more. After that, the lords and ladies of the highest rank came forward to renew their allegiance to the crown. This was the worst part of the coronation in Edouard's opinion because he was obliged to sit there and smile while each lord or lady droned on incessantly about how fortunate everyone was to have Edouard on the throne. Even with the crown resting against the chair, the weight of it was still pressing down on his neck and he was starting to feel the pain. But finally, the oaths of allegiance concluded and Edouard lifted the crown from his head settling it in his lap with a suppressed

groan. As people began filing out of the Court, Kieran came forward. "That looks heavy, Your Majesty."

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"It is. But thankfully, I never have to wear it again. Both it and the necklace will return to the vaults. I have a smaller circlet I can wear on formal occasions when I want everyone to remember I'm the king." "Your Majesty," Imbario interrupted. "I would like to speak with you privately." "To discuss what?" Edouard knew perfectly well what Imbario wanted to talk about, but he had no intention of seeing him alone. "I wish to quell the rumors regarding my position at court. It is difficult to perform my duties as Royal Wizard under these circumstances." Edouard handed the crown to Kieran and stood up. "We can discuss it, but not in private. Please meet me in my father's study in an hour. There are other people whose opinions I value whom I wish to be present." Imbario's face darkened, but he did not protest. "Very well, Your Majesty." He offered Edouard the barest sketch of a bow and stalked away. Edouard turned to Kieran. "I want Divwall and Colwyn there when I confront him," he said. "Landon should be there and I want Captain Soleson as well. I don't want that man in my court another day." -o-o-oImbario returned to his study angrier than he could ever remember being. Not even Colwyn's defiance had infuriated him this badly. Bolting the door behind him, he went immediately to his desk and retrieved the inkpot with the hidden supply of madrin bone powder. But instead of his usual tiny taste, he took a large pinch of the powder and smeared it on his gums. The jolt of power made his eyes roll up and his body shook until he was

able to assimilate the surge of energy. When his eyes regained focus, everything seemed a little sharper, the colors a little brighter. Carefully, he screwed the inkpot back together and sank into his chair.

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It was inconceivable that his plans could be so disastrously disrupted. It was as if someone knew what he was doing and was directing Edouard's actions specifically to thwart him. Imbario drummed his fingers on the table while he considered this. It had all started to go wrong when the wizard trainee Kieran had come to Bright Isle. That young man's arrival at court and his introduction to Edouard had precipitated everything that had happened since. "I need to separate him from Edouard," Imbario murmured, "and then I need to get rid of him." He opened the bottom drawer in his desk and reached inside, sliding his fingers carefully along the bottom of the drawer above. He found the small notch of a hidden catch and tripped it. The bottom of the drawer folded down and a piece of paper slid into his hand. Imbario closed the hidden compartment and shut the drawer before unfolding the paper and smoothing it out on the desk. The neatly lettered words of a spell covered the page. A dark grin widened Imbario's lips as he read it. "Yes, this will work," he said softly. "No trainee wizard could counteract a spell like this and I can rid myself of both of them." -o-o-o"Edouard," Lady Divwall misgivings about working accomplished wizard with advising your father. Are away?" said patiently, "I understand your with Lord Imbario, but he is a very years of experience supporting and you sure you want to throw all that

Kieran watched Edouard's face as Divwall spoke. Edouard was not very good at hiding his emotions, at least not to Kieran's eyes, and he could see Edouard was trying to restrain his anger. He had taken off his ceremonial cape and stood with his arms crossed while Divwall talked.

"Yes, I'm quite sure," Edouard responded. "I don't trust him."

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Divwall sighed in exasperation. She turned to Captain Soleson. "Captain, have you ever seen or heard anything that would give you reason to distrust Lord Imbario?" "No, my lady," Soleson replied, "but I do no often interact with the Royal Wizard." "I admit that Imbario does not have the most ingratiating personality," Divwall continued, "but if we judged everyone's competence by their likeability, none of us would be employed!" "Nevertheless," Edouard persisted, "I don't want him here anymore. Recall him to Bright Isle and let other wizards be nominated to replace him." As if Edouard's words had summoned him, a loud knock on the door announced Imbario's arrival. He swept into the room with a haughty glare on his face, taking in the others present with a sweeping glance, but his eyes came to rest on Kieran. "Well, well, this is an interesting gathering," he said. "Pray tell, why is this trainee wizard here?" "Because I want him here," Edouard said shortly. He moved closer to Kieran and turned to glare at Imbario. "As I promised, we are here to discuss your future at court." "I see." Imbario clasped his hands together in front of him. "But I suspect you have already made your decision, Edouard, and you have no intention of allowing anyone here to dissuade you, no matter what I might have to say." "For once we understand each other," Edouard replied. Imbario stiffened and he smoothed the front of his robe. As he did so, Kieran felt a tingle of pain in the back of his head. At the same time, a brief flash of light flared on the back of Edouard's head. "Edouard!" Landon shouted. Edouard looked around in surprise and a second flash of light burst on his forehead.

Colwyn jumped between Edouard and Imbario. "Kieran!" he shouted. "Stop him!"

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The pain in the back of Kieran's head turned into a pounding headache. He touched his fingers to his forehead and whispered a go-away spell that Ma Bricker had taught him. "It will banish any pain!" she had cackled gleefully. But the headache resisted his attempt to banish it and Kieran put more effort into the spell. A feeling like glass breaking echoed in his head and the pain vanished. Kieran stared at Imbario in surprise. It was a spell! A spell that would have caused him pain until he died from it. Sudden fury flared in Kieran's chest. Imbario had cast that spell at Edouard, not just at him! He raised his hand and made a casting motion into the air. As one, Divwall, Colwyn and Imbario gasped as if the air had been sucked from the room. "Kieran!" Colwyn gasped, "what did you do?" "I suppressed all the magic in the room," Kieran replied grimly. All three wizards stared at him. "That's impossible!" Divwall whispered hoarsely. Kieran shook his head slowly. "Ma Bricker told me once that there was a way to do it, she just couldn't figure out how. But I figured it out when I made the spell to protect Edouard." He frowned at Divwall and Colwyn. "Isn't that what you do when you condition rogue wizards against the use of magic?" Divwall turned an accusing stare on Colwyn. "Is this the secret you promised to tell me later?" Colwyn swallowed. "I had no idea he could do this, Divwall, I swear!" Kieran pointed at Imbario. Lingering traces of the spell still echoed in his head. "He cast a killing spell at me and Edouard!" Imbario held up his hands. "That's nonsense!" he rasped. "I made no gestures! I spoke no words!"

"Then explain to us why the protection spell on Edouard was triggered!" Landon growled.

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"P Protection spell?" Imbario stammered. "What are you talking about?" Landon smirked. "Kieran put a spell on Edouard that protects him from magic and if magic is used on him, it reflects the spell as light. There were flashes of light on Edouard's body, which means someone tried to cast a spell on him. There are only four wizards in the room and three of them have no reason to throw spells at Edouard." Landon fixed Imbario with a harsh glare. "So that leaves you." Imbario's eyes widened in sudden panic. "Th there is no such spell! You're lying!" Colwyn began to laugh weakly. "Didn't I tell you, Father? Kieran is a rogue wizard. His abilities dwarf us all. You murdered King Heston, didn't you?" "What? No! I" Imbario staggered backward. "He collapsed His heart" "You murdered him!" Edouard cried suddenly. "You murdered my father!" Imbario's face had gone gray. He brushed repeatedly at the front of his robe, but nothing happened. "Heston was a weak king," he mumbled. "The kingdom deserved better. A brighter future governed by magic" Quite suddenly, Edouard leaped toward Imbario with a shriek of rage. "Damn you!" he screamed. "You bastard! You filthy, coldhearted bastard!" Kieran caught him before his clawed hands could reach Imbario's face and pulled him back. "No, Edouard! Don't touch him! He can use magic if you touch him!" "Let me go!" Edouard screamed, struggling futilely against Kieran's restraining arms. "I curse you!" he screamed at Imbario. "May you rot in misery until the end of your days!"

Because he was holding Edouard, Kieran felt the surge of hatefueled power that flared up in the youth's slender body and he could almost see the dark miasma of the curse settling around Imbario's shoulders. Quickly, he spoke a counter-curse to purify Edouard and then glanced at Imbario to see if the curse was gone. Uttering a curse was as soiling for the speaker as it was deadly for the target. While he could no longer see the dark mist coiling around the shaken wizard, he was not entirely convinced it was gone. Edouard had cast a very powerful curse; the very worst kind of dark magic. Kieran pulled Edouard against his chest and whispered two more counter-curses. Ma Bricker had taught him dozens of counter-curses because "you can never know too many". Edouard pressed his face against Kieran's shoulder and sobbed. "I hate him! He deserves to die!" "What is done to him is for the Wizard's Hall to decide," Divwall said. She sounded exhausted. "The business of wizards is best left to wizards." Edouard trembled in his arms and Kieran stroked his hair gently. "Lady Divwall is right," he murmured. "I know," Edouard groaned between his sobs, "but he stole my father from me for no reason but his own selfish gain! What punishment is enough for that?" Instead of answering, Divwall faced Imbario. "Lord Imbario, I charge you with violation of the prohibition against the use of killing magic. I enjoin you to refrain from the use of magic until your case has been heard by a council of peers in the Wizard's Hall. Should you violate this injunction, you will be summarily deemed guilty and condemned to binding and imprisonment." Imbario stared at her, his face white with shock. "I am the Royal Wizard!" he exclaimed. "You cannot charge me with a crime!" "No wizard is above the laws of the Hall, Lord Imbario. You swore to uphold those laws when you received your wizard's robes. Will you reject everything on which your life is based?"

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Imbario's mouth worked silently for a moment. Then he drew himself up and his face regained some of its haughtiness. "Very well. I will return to the Wizard's Hall as you demand so I may prove my innocence. There is no proof for any of these accusations and I will be vindicated." Divwall nodded. "So be it." She turned to Edouard. "Your Majesty, pending the outcome of Lord Imbario's hearing, I urge you to refrain from taking any further steps in appointing a new Royal Wizard." Edouard was still trembling, but he nodded. "I will do as you recommend, Lady Divwall. I defer this matter to the Wizard's Hall. But should you find him guilty of my father's murder, he will never again set foot in this court, is that clear?" Divwall bowed. "Yes, Your Majesty." Chapter 16: Proof Imbario was taken under guard directly from King Heston's study to the ferry, accompanied by Divwall. Captain Soleson led the escort, leaving Edouard alone with Kieran, Colwyn and Landon. Edouard could not stop shaking. The conviction that Imbario had killed his father left him furious and heartbroken. He looked around at the shelves of books and papers and the long work table were his father had spent his time performing the business of the kingdom. His father had died in this room. Edouard drew in a long breath, trying to slow his pounding heart. Kieran was still holding him and the gentle embrace helped to soothe the anger burning in his chest. "I think," Edouard said slowly, "that I will use this room as my father did. I will not let it become a monument to that man's cruelty." He looked at each of the others. "I do not plan to sit around waiting for the wizards to reach a conclusion. The business of the kingdom has been delayed long enough." He stepped out of Kieran's embrace and lifted his chin. "Colwyn, although Lady Divwall asked me not to appoint a new Royal Wizard, I nevertheless need to know what Imbario has been doing these past few weeks. Would you please go through his papers and find out if there is anything he was doing that I need to know about?"

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"Yes, Your Majesty," Colwyn replied gravely.

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Edouard glanced at Kieran, but once again he addressed himself to Colwyn. "I would also ask if Kieran might stay with me for a few more days. Just until the issue of Imbario is resolved." "I think that is acceptable," Colwyn said. He smiled somewhat ruefully. "Divwall and I will need a little time anyway to come up with a way to explain Kieran to the rest of the wizards. If word gets out of what he did today, it will cause a great deal of concern, possibly even fear." Kieran bit his lip and Colwyn offered him an encouraging smile. "Try not to worry, Kieran," he said. "Imbario's trial should prove a sufficient distraction for the moment." Landon picked up Edouard's cape and draped it over his arm. "Majesty, it is customary to host a coronation dinner. I'm sure the kitchen will have planned something." Edouard nodded. "Of course. I would like to change before dinner." "Very well. Justus and I will prepare an outfit for you." "Thank you." Landon bowed and left. When he was gone, Edouard turned to Colwyn again. "Colwyn, do you mind attending me at dinner? Imbario's absence will cause talk, but as you are his son, you could say that you are taking your father's place for the evening." Colwyn smirked. "I don't know if anyone will buy that, Majesty. It's no secret that my father and I don't get along." "Nevertheless" "I will be honored, Majesty." Colwyn bowed. "I'll raid my father's wardrobe for appropriate robes." He chuckled. "In fact, I will use this opportunity to search his rooms. If you will excuse me" He inclined his head and departed, leaving Edouard alone with Kieran. Edouard heaved a deep sigh. "I would very much like to skip this dinner."

"But the nobles expect it."

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"Yes, they do," Edouard replied with a scowl. "But it's really just an excuse for them to show off and wear they're newest outfits." "But is that not the kind of normalcy that will make them stop worrying about other matters?" Kieran asked. "If you behave as they expect you to, aren't they less likely to question your decision about replacing Imbario?" Edouard paused as he thought about that. Kieran had brought up a good point. Nobles cared most about money, power and prestige. Anything that seemed like it would dramatically change the status quo invariably caused upheaval in the court. He ran his fingers through his hair. "You're right. But that also means you can't attend the dinner with me." Kieran nodded. "I know." Edouard studied Kieran's face. The young man had become so much a part of his life in such a short time. But there were still many things he did not know about the trainee wizard. "Kieran, Colwyn called you a rogue wizard before. Why did he say that? Rogue wizards are usually dangerous killers." Kieran shifted uncomfortably and dropped his eyes. "Rogue wizards" he began and paused. He cleared his throat and started again. "Colwyn told me that rogue wizards are wizards who have the ability to create spells without experimentation. I can do that, so that's why he called me a rogue wizard." He lifted his eyes to Edouard's face, his expression worried. "But I would never do anything to hurt someone, please believe me! Everything I do is for you." Edouard met his eyes evenly. "But what if I asked you to hurt someone? Would you do that?" Kieran stared. "You would never do that!" he said with stark conviction. "You are the most kind-hearted person I have ever met." Edouard chuckled humorlessly. "I am king now, Kieran. What I want to do and what I need to do may not always be the same. A

time may come when I will have to do something heartless and I might ask you to help me."

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Kieran remained silent for a long time. When he finally spoke, his voice was almost sad. "King Edouard," he said softly, "I am your servant. Whatever you deem necessary to do, I will do, if it is within my power to do so." Edouard stepped forward and clasped Kieran by the shoulders. "And from the sound of it, there may be nothing that is not within your power. This places a great burden of responsibility on both of us. As you are my friend more than my servant, Kieran, I charge you to always question me if my orders conflict with your compassion. I will need you to remind me of my humanity." A small smile touched Kieran's lips. "Thank you for giving me your trust, Majesty." Edouard returned his smile. "Call me Edouard when we're alone, Kieran. Hearing my name keeps me humble. Besides, friends call each other by name." Kieran's smile widened. "I never expected to become friends with a king." "I never expected to be king." Edouard took Kieran's hand. "Come keep me company while I get ready for dinner. "All right." "Tomorrow begins my first full day as ruler," Edouard continued. "I wonder what kind of king I will become." "You will be the best king we've ever had," Kieran said firmly. "I wish everyone shared your faith!" Edouard laughed. "Give them time," Kieran said with conviction. "One day everyone will believe as I do." -o-o-o-o-oThe morning after the coronation dinner, Colwyn led Kieran into Imbario's study and quickly closed the door. He had been in this

room several times in the past, but never without Imbario present. As always, he was struck by how organized everything was. The few papers that lay on the desk were neatly stacked. The books on the shelves were carefully aligned. When the room had been searched before, they had found nothing, but Colwyn was not convinced that meant there was nothing to find. He pursed his lips as he looked around. "There's something here, Kieran, I know it," he said finally. "I'll search the desk. I would like you to go through the books." "I can't read," Kieran said.

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"That's all right," Colwyn replied. "Just flip through the pages and look for loose sheets of paper. If you find any, show them to me." "All right." Colwyn moved to the desk and began going through the drawers. More than an hour later, he stood in the middle of the room, frowning in annoyance. "I can't believe there's nothing!" he exclaimed. He gestured toward the desk. "I even found two hidden compartments in the drawers, but they were empty. Who has a desk with hidden compartments and then puts nothing in them?" "Maybe he didn't know about them," Kieran ventured. "Who used this study before him?" "Probably the previous Royal Wizard." Colwyn ran his fingers through his hair. "Maybe I'm wrong," he muttered. "Maybe he hasn't been trying to take over the kingdom." Kieran stood by the desk, touching the items sitting on it without moving anything. Then he opened the polished rosewood box sitting on the corner and made a surprised noise. "Oh! It's a writing case!" He picked up one of the little inkpots. "I've been looking forward to learning to read and write at the Wizard's Hall," he said absently. He started to put the inkpot down and then frowned slightly. "That's odd." He unscrewed the lid and tipped the little jar from side to side, watching the liquid swirl around. He screwed the lid back on but continued to stare at the jar with a puzzled frown.

Watching his face, Colwyn began to get excited. "What's the matter?"

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"What is ink made from?" Kieran asked, rather than answering Colwyn's question. "Plant and animal extracts, usually. Why?" "Because I sense something," Kieran said in a confused tone. He held the inkpot out to Colwyn. "Is it just me?" Colwyn took the jar from him and studied it closely. Holding it this close, there was a nearly imperceptible aura of power radiating from the jar. As he examined it, however, he noticed a faint line around the base. Gripping the jar below the line, he twisted and the base turned. Stunned, he carefully unscrewed the base of the inkpot to reveal a small amount of gray powder that radiated power. He drew in a shocked breath. "It's madrin bone powder!" he whispered. He looked up at Kieran in amazement. "You found it! This is my father's secret supply of madrin bone powder!" He held it out toward Kieran. "With this Imbario could have cured Edouard, but he didn't do it. It proves that he was purposely allowing Edouard to suffer." Colwyn screwed the jar back together and returned it to its place in the writing case. "I have to take this to Bright Isle. It's not illegal to have madrin bone powder, but for Imbario to possess it and not use it on Edouard is compelling evidence." He picked up the writing case and tucked it under his arm. "Will you tell Edouard what we found?" "Yes." "Good. I still have time to catch the midday ferry." Colwyn hurried toward the door. "Using the powder will have greatly enhanced my father's power. I need you to keep a close eye on Edouard. Imbario knows he cannot attack him with magic, but there is nothing to prevent him from compelling someone to try to murder him. Keep him inside the palace and don't allow anyone you don't know to touch him." Kieran nodded.

Colwyn gripped his shoulder. "We're getting close to the end, Kieran. I think we finally have him." -o-o-o-o-o-

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Imbario was feeling confident, sitting before the curved judge's bench in the Wizard Hall's courtroom. He could tell already that a number of the wizards sitting on the judge's panel were leaning in his favor and he had not yet begun to speak in his own defense. Since arriving on Bright Isle the day before, he had used the time required to select and assemble the panel of judges to firm up his support base. Now, almost a day later, he watched with a dispassionate and calm expression as Divwall presented her case against him. She was trying hard to keep an impartial expression on her face as the judges questioned her, but he could tell that she was growing frustrated. Lord Gavilan, master of the Wizard's Hall, chaired the panel of ten wizards hearing the charges against Imbario. "Lady Divwall," Gavilan said slowly, "I am still unclear what concrete evidence you have that a killing spell was used." "He used the spell on a trainee wizard who was present, Lord Gavilan," Divwall admitted reluctantly. "A trainee?" snorted one of the wizards, a sour-faced gentleman named Hothram. "How, pray tell, could a trainee recognize a killing spell? Who is this trainee? What year?" "A third year," Divwall admitted reluctantly. "His name is Kieran." "Kieran?" Lord Gavilan frowned. "Isn't that the boy Colwyn brought in a few months ago?" "Yes." "What?" Hothram exploded. "This entire accusation is based on the evidence of some wizardling with only a few months of training?" "Kieran is unusual," Divwall said stiffly. "He placed into the third year based on his skill level."

"But it still strikes me as unlikely that a third year trainee would recognize a killing spell," Gavilan said.

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"What's more," Hothram said loudly, "if a third year trainee was attacked by a killing spell, he would be dead. Is the boy dead?" "No," Divwall replied shortly. "Then it could not have been a killing spell!" Hothram stated angrily. "I do not understand why you would impugn the reputation of an esteemed wizard like Lord Imbario under these circumstances!" He sat back with a superior sneer on his face. "Your other arguments regarding Prince Edouard's illness and King Heston's death are all circumstantial. Unless you have something more concrete to present, I do not see why Imbario even need be required to defend himself." "Lady Divwall," Gavilan said gravely, "Under the circumstances, I must agree with Hothram. The word of a trainee wizard is hardly sufficient evidence, particularly without the young man here to speak for himself." "Maybe this will convince you," Colwyn said, speaking from the doorway. A surge of panic swept Imbario when he saw what Colwyn was holding. It was his rosewood writing case! Colwyn did not look at him as he crossed the room and put the case in front of Hothram. "You have worked with Lord Imbario many times, Master Hothram," Colwyn said. "Do you recognize this?" "Of course," Hothram said dismissively. "It is Lord Imbario's writing case. He takes it with him everywhere. I believe it was a gift from his late wife." Colwyn nodded and a slight smile touched his lips. "Please open it." Hothram did so with an air of irritation. "Do you notice anything unusual?" "No!" Hothram snapped. "It looks exactly as it always does."

"So you recognize everything in the case?"

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"Yes! I've used it myself once or twice when I was working in Imbario's study here or at the palace." "I see." Colwyn lifted one of the inkpots from its recess and Imbario paled. With a slight smile, Colwyn twisted the bottom of the jar and it separated. He held the small round tray he removed from the bottom under Hothram's nose. "Do you recognize this?" Hothram's eyes went wide. "It It is madrin bone powder!" "Yes," Colwyn said. He turned to Lord Gavilan. "Lord Imbario had madrin bone powder in his possession, my lord. Of course, we do not know when he came to have it, but Prince Edouard has been ill since childhood. If Imbario had madrin bone powder, why did he not use it to cure the prince?" Colwyn turned to regard Imbario with lifted eyebrows. Lord Gavilan took the tray of powder from Colwyn with a troubled expression. "Lord Imbario, can you explain this?" Imbario licked his lips. He met Colwyn's expectant gaze, feeling betrayed. Colwyn may not have supported him all these years, but he was still his son. How could he turn against his own father? What kind of hatred burned in his veins? "Lord Imbario?" Gavilan prompted. Imbario slowly stood up. "I admit I kept a small supply of madrin bone powder for emergency use. I did not think it necessary to use it on Prince Edouard because Doctor Sefrin believed his scientific medicines would ultimately prevail." "That seems reasonable," Hothram said. "Do you think so?" Colwyn asked. "Did you ever visit Prince Edouard, Hothram? Did you ever discuss his health with Doctor Sefrin? I have. He was convinced that Edouard would ultimately die. I know he discussed it with both King Heston and Lord Imbario." Colwyn looked Imbario in the eye. "My father's statement is a blatant lie."

Imbario returned Colwyn's stare without moving. He suddenly remembered how proud he had been when Colwyn showed natural talent and was accepted into the top rank of first year students. But then they had become estranged over subsequent years and Imbario had done nothing to change that. This inaction now loomed large as possibly his greatest mistake. "You would turn your back on your own father?" he asked softly.

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Colwyn smiled coldly. "Why not? You turned yours to me years ago." A dark frown settled on Gavilan's face. "Lord Imbario, I am compelled to believe that you, the Royal Wizard, through inaction nearly allowed Prince Edouard to succumb to illness. This is in direct opposition to the mandate of your position. At the very least, I must recall you from the royal court. You will remain on Bright Isle until this panel hears the testimony of the wizard trainee Kieran." Imbario sank back into his seat. "Of course I will abide by the rules of the Wizard's Hall. But I look forward to hearing Colwyn's explanation for why he has secretly allowed a rogue wizard to be harbored on Bright Isle." "What?" Gavilan exclaimed. "What do you mean by that?" "Perhaps you should ask Lady Divwall," Imbario replied. He smiled maliciously at Divwall. "She has very studiously avoided mentioning that she and Colwyn are both aware that the wizard trainee Kieran is a rogue wizard." Gavilan surged to his feet. "Divwall, is this true?" Divwall swallowed. "Kieran is unusually skilled, Lord Gavilan. His abilities do appear to exceed what one might expect of a trainee wizard in his third year." "When were you planning to inform this council?" Hothram demanded furiously. "It did not specifically pertain to this proceeding," Divwall said. "Colwyn and I intended to bring the matter to Lord Gavilan's attention separately."

"That is disingenuous!" Hothram exclaimed. "This trainee is directly responsible for the current charges against Lord Imbario. If he is a rogue wizard, how do we know that his intention is not to disrupt the Wizard's Hall?" "We will decide that for ourselves," Gavilan said sternly. "Divwall, you will bring this trainee before this panel tomorrow." "Yes, my lord." -o-o-o-o-oKieran had breakfast with Edouard in his rooms the morning after Colwyn returned to Bright Isle. Edouard still did not eat very much most of the time, but he had developed a passion for grilled tomatoes, especially with a little cheese melted on top, because Kieran always asked for them. Their breakfast of grilled tomatoes, sausages and porridge would have made the noble born shudder at the idea of eating such food, but Edouard consumed it with relish, and in quantities that had Kieran, Justus and Landon all smiling. "I wonder how the trial is going," Edouard said around a mouthful of sausage. Kieran shrugged. "We'll find out." He had spent too many years wolfing down meals in between chores to be distracted when food was in front of him. Someone knocked on the door and Justus went to answer. Lady Asita stepped in with three other wizards behind her. "Lady Asita!" Edouard exclaimed. "This is a surprise." "I'm sorry to bother you so early, Your Majesty, but Kieran has been summoned to Bright Isle." Kieran flinched and Edouard put a hand on his. "Why?" Edouard demanded. "Lord Gavilan requires his testimony in Imbario's trial." "I suppose I should have expected that," Edouard sighed.

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Kieran swallowed and sat up a little straighter. "Colwyn told me to guard King Edouard," he said uncertainly.

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"Yes, he told me," she replied. "That is why I brought Lord Moretz." She indicated one of the wizards standing beside her. "Lord Moretz is one of our most accomplished wizards. He will take your place until the trial is concluded." Lord Moretz bowed. "Your Majesty, I am honored to serve you." Edouard inclined his head in response. Moretz's eyes moved to Kieran. "I am also glad to meet you, Trainee Kieran. What I have heard about you piques my interest." He stepped closer. "Colwyn said that you placed a protective spell on his majesty. May I examine it?" Kieran nodded tentatively and glanced at Edouard. Edouard frowned slightly, but he also nodded. Moretz touched his fingers to Edouard's forehead and closed his eyes. He remained motionless for several moments. "Fascinating!" he murmured. "So complex!" He dropped his hand and turned to Kieran. "I am not sure I was able to detect all facets of this spell. I would be very pleased if, at a later time, you could show me how you constructed it." "O Of course," Kieran stammered. Moretz seemed more excited than frightened by what Kieran had done, but he could not help but believe Moretz was an exception. The other two wizards who had accompanied Asita were watching him with narrowed eyes. "Very well," Asita said. "Moretz will remain here and we will escort you back to Bright Isle." The other two wizards edged forward, their eyes focused closely on Kieran. Asita glanced at them with faint amusement in her eyes. "These wizards are to help me ensure that you perform no magic for the time being." "I understand." Kieran stood up but Edouard caught his arm. He rose and whispered into Kieran's ear, "You can trust Asita," he murmured, "but watch the other two. Take care." Asita and the others had not come on the ferry. Another ship waited to return them immediately to Bright Isle and the passage was much quicker than Kieran hoped for, even pinned under the mistrustful glares of Asita's two companions the whole way. His

link to the spell on Edouard felt dismayingly stretched, but it was still there; his only comfort on that swift crossing. On Bright Isle, Asita led the way to a wing of the Wizard's Hall normally offlimits to students. The room they entered was wide and tall. Opposite the door was a long curved table where ten wizards, with Lord Gavilan at the center, were seated. Two sets of chairs spaced several paces apart faced the table. On the left, Imbario sat alone. On the right were Divwall and Colwyn.

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Asita bowed to Lord Gavilan. "The trainee wizard Kieran, my lord." "Thank you, Lady Asita," Gavilan replied. "Come forward Kieran." Kieran walked forward until he was standing in the empty space between Divwall and Imbario. He clasped his hands behind his back and stood straight, trying not to show how nervous he was. "Kieran, I charge you to give full and honest answers to this assembly," Gavilan said gravely. "Hothram, you may ask the first question." "Trainee!" an angry-looking, pinched face wizard barked. "What makes you think a killing spell was used on you?" "I recognized it, honored sir," Kieran replied carefully. "Recognized it?" Hothram exclaimed. "You are familiar with killing spells?" The accusatory snarl made Kieran flinch. "Not specifically, honored sir, but the woman who taught me magic told me that spells that cause pain in one's head are usually killing spells and she taught me a charm for banishing headaches. When I used it on myself and the pain went away, it left magic residue." "Magic residue?" Hothram cried in consternation. "What nonsense is that?" Divwall stood up. "There is precedent for what he says," she interrupted quickly. "I have had many wizards tell me that they can feel traces of where a spell has recently been cast. Magic residue might be one way to describe such traces."

Another wizard, a woman, spoke up. "Kieran, if you believe you were attacked by a killing spell, how do you think you survived?" "I don't think it was supposed to kill me right away, honored madam." He met the woman's expressionless stare evenly. "After all, if I had dropped dead on the spot, it would have looked very suspicious." "And yet you think you broke a killing spell supposedly cast by one of the most powerful sorcerers in the kingdom with nothing but a banishing charm!" Hothram sneered. Colwyn rose. "We cannot keep this a secret, Divwall," he said resignedly. "Kieran, do what you did in the study that day." Kieran stiffened. He was facing ten of the most prominent wizards in the kingdom. If his spell successfully suppressed their powers, there would be no denying the threat he represented. He turned beseechingly to Colwyn, but the handsome wizard just shook his head. "It is necessary, Kieran," Colwyn said. "Please proceed." Kieran dropped his eyes and sighed deeply. He turned back to face Lord Gavilan and lifted his hand. "What is the meaning of this, Lord Colwyn?" Gavilan said with a frown. "Just watch," Colwyn replied. "You have my word as a royal wizard that no harm will come of this." Kieran drew in a deep breath and cast the spell. The reaction of the ten wizards facing him ran the gamut from frightened, to stunned, to furious. Surprisingly, Hothram was one of the ones who looked the most frightened. "W What?" Gavilan stammered. He looked to either side at the other wizards, taking in their reactions. He returned his stunned stare to Kieran. "What have you done?" he demanded in a shaking voice.

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"It is a suppression spell," Colwyn answered for him. "It suppresses the ability for a wizard to extend his magic power to objects beyond his touch. Kieran created this spell on his own." Colwyn stared at each of the ten wizards in turn. "This is how he was able to banish the killing spell used against him. This is also how he was able to create a protection spell that prevented the same killing spell from touching the king. Kieran is more powerful than any wizard in this room; probably more powerful than any wizard in living memory." Colwyn's statement was greeted by utter silence. Gavilan raised a hand and muttered a counter-spell, but it had no effect. His face paled. "Such power" he began faintly. "Only a rogue wizard could have such power!" He stared at Kieran, the first traces of true fear appearing on his face. "If you please, Kieran," Colwyn said. Without moving, Kieran banished the spell. A collective sigh of relief issued from every throat. Even Divwall looked relieved, despite having been under the influence of the suppression spell before. "Kieran," Colwyn said, "do you understand what it means to be a rogue wizard?" Kieran bit his lip. "I think it means to live outside the rules of the Wizard's Hall, or even be in opposition to them." Colwyn nodded once. "Who is your master, Kieran?" he asked abruptly. Kieran answered without hesitation; almost without thinking. "King Edouard." "If Edouard ordered you to complete your training at the Wizard's Hall and take the oath of obedience, would you do so?" "Yes." "Would you hold yourself bound by that oath?" "Yes."

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"Why?" "Because Edouard would expect it of me."

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Colwyn turned to face Gavilan. "We live in fear of rogue wizards because they are powerful and owe allegiance to no one. Kieran is bound to the king and will obey him absolutely. We have nothing to fear from Kieran unless we plan to live in fear of Edouard, too." Gavilan's face grew thoughtful. Hothram stared at him in alarm. "You cannot be seriously considering accepting this this danger to the Wizard's Hall?" he exclaimed. "This boy is a rogue! He should be destroyed! Imagine what we would have on our hands if he were properly trained!" "That is exactly what I am imagining," Gavilan replied thoughtfully. He leaned forward and stared into Kieran's eyes. "A royal wizard with the powers of a rogue would be of infinite value to this Hall." He continued to stare at Kieran until the woman who had spoken before cleared her throat. "Lord Gavilan," she said, "we have not resolved the matter at hand. What of Lord Imbario?" Gavilan sat back. "There is sufficient doubt in this case to justify the use of a soothsayer. Lord Imbario will be questioned by Lady Amrisen." Imbario jumped to his feet. "I refuse to submit to such an indignity!" he cried. "My word should be accepted as spoken!" "Refusal to submit to a soothsaying is an admission of guilt, Lord Imbario," Gavilan replied sternly. "There is not sufficient evidence to accept or dismiss the charges; therefore, a soothsaying must be held." Imbario's face darkened with outrage, but a look of fear widened his eyes. He drew himself up and brushed the front of his robe. Gavilan winced in sudden pain and his nose began to bleed. Other wizards clasped hands to noses suddenly gushing blood. Divwall

hunched over, gasping for breath and Colwyn collapsed to one knee, his hands clutching his head.

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Kieran felt the spell pressing against his skull and a humorless smile touched his lips. It was the same spell Imbario had used before. He could almost hear Ma Bricker's senile cackle. He remembered the last time he had visited her, alone and dying in her tumbledown shack. As he tended her, she had clutched the front of his threadbare shirt and rasped at him: "Never forget the feel of a spell, boy! Never! Once you know the shape of it, you can always counter it. Always!" That advice now saved his life. He shrugged the spell off, swept his arms out to encompass the room and spoke the strongest banishing spell he knew, putting all his power behind it. Divwall cried out as she finally managed to pull air into her lungs. Kieran turned to Imbario. "You used that spell on me before," he said quietly, "so it has no power over me now." He glanced at Lord Gavilan. "That is the same spell he used on me and King Edouard, my lord, only much stronger." Gavilan stared at Imbario, too stunned to be angry. For a moment, he seemed unable to find words. "This This betrayal," he finally rasped, "is beyond forgiveness or remorse. Lord Imbario, I find you guilty of the charge of using killing magic. By the laws of this Hall, your powers will be bound and you will be imprisoned for the rest of your life." Chapter 17: Kieran's Future Seated in his study where he had been doing paperwork, Edouard sagged back in his chair and stared at his hands resting on the table in front of him. "So he did kill my father?" he said tonelessly. "It appears so," Colwyn replied gently. "He will not admit it, but he did attack the judicial panel that was assembled to hear the charges against him. That act has made most wizards inclined to accept a presumption of guilt in the death of King Heston." Edouard nodded, still staring sightlessly at the hands lying limply in front of him. "He betrayed this kingdom," he said, his voice

barely audible. "He betrayed my father, me and the Wizard's Hall." He looked up at Colwyn and pushed to his feet. "And he violated the oath he took when he was named the Royal Wizard," he continued in a stronger tone. He straightened his back. "What assurances will the Wizard's Hall give the Crown that such a betrayal will not happen again?"

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Colwyn bowed his head. "I will convey your demand to Lord Gavilan, Majesty," he said. "Your question requires an official response." "Yes," Edouard agreed with a nod. "This kingdom has always had a Royal Wizard serving at the king's right hand and I do not mean to break that tradition, but I will not blindly accept whomever is brought forward as Imbario's replacement. Everyone whose name is submitted to me may expect to undergo considerable scrutiny." "That's fair." Colwyn smiled. "And I am honestly pleased to hear you say so. In my opinion, Imbario's actions have put all wizards under suspicion. He had supporters, after all. Now every wizard must earn back the trust that Imbario flushed away." "Not everyone," Edouard replied with an answering smile. "I trust you and Divwall. And Kieran. When will he be allowed to return?" Edouard watched Colwyn's face as he asked the question. When Colwyn had arrived to report on the outcome of Imbario's trial, Edouard had been disappointed to find him alone. He missed Kieran. "I'm not sure, to be honest," Colwyn answered slowly. "Not surprisingly, the revelation of his powers has caused a great deal of shock. Gavilan wants to keep him in the Hall, but there are many wizards opposed to this. Rogue wizards inspire a lot of fear." "Kieran is not a rogue!" Edouard said sharply. "He may be powerful, but he is not a threat to anyone." "I agree with you," Colwyn said, "and so does Gavilan. He thinks there is a lot to be gained by having someone with Kieran's powers answering to the Hall."

"I want him to be my Royal Wizard," Edouard said. He met Colwyn's eyes. "Kieran belongs with me."

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Colwyn shifted uncomfortably. "That may be difficult, Majesty. Kieran is still young and has several years of training ahead of him. Plus, there may be some who will resist the idea of having a rogue wizard so close to the king." "I told you: he's not a rogue." "Yes, but that is how many people see him and we will have a difficult time changing that perception. People fear power; even wizards." Edouard frowned. "Nevertheless, when Kieran graduates from the academy, he will serve me here at court. I will not accept anything else." Colwyn sighed. "Very well. I will tell Gavilan that. But in the meantime, you will have to appoint someone else. It will be at least four years, maybe longer, before Kieran completes his training. We will need at least that long to convince people that he is taking the ethics training to heart, which is the only thing likely to change the belief that he is a rogue." "I can accept that," Edouard replied. Then he smiled at Colwyn. "Why don't you take the post? It would save me a lot of bother." Colwyn paled. "Become the Royal Wizard?" He shook his head quickly. "I can think of several reasons not to, the foremost being that Imbario is my father. But more importantly, I do not have the temperament for court life. And now that I have met a madrin," he added with more excitement, "I am desperate to get back out into the woods to learn more." Edouard laughed. "I should have expected that answer!" He waved a hand. "Well, no matter. I'm sure I'll find someone who suits me." He did not add that part of suiting him meant a willingness to step aside when Kieran became eligible for the post. But, remembering what had started the conversation, he grew thoughtful. "What will happen to Imbario now?"

"His powers will be permanently bound and he will be confined to a prison cell on Bright Isle for the remainder of his days." Colwyn sighed softly. "Few wizards live long after a binding, however. Being cut off from one's power is deadening." He smiled sadly at Edouard. "In truth, it's crueler than execution." Edouard returned Colwyn's sad smile with a humorless one of his own. "I suppose I should be glad, then. A few years of suffering on his part seems fair after what he did to me. But Kieran would be disappointed in me for being heartless. So I'll just say that whatever punishment the Hall deems appropriate is acceptable to the Crown." Colwyn inclined his head. "You are becoming a great king, Edouard." "Thank you." Edouard accepted Colwyn's compliment with a faint smile. Should I tell him that I am just trying to live up to Kieran's expectations? -o-o-o-o-oKieran sat alone at a table in the dining room wishing there was somewhere else he could eat dinner. All around him, wizards and students watched him with alarmed, angry or frightened expressions. He kept his eyes down and focused on the food in front of him. Colwyn had told him to expect something like this once the rumors started to spread, but it was still dismaying. A tray appeared in his field of view on the opposite side of the table and he looked up in surprise to find Tank staring down at him with a worried frown. Tank glanced around and then quickly took a seat amid a flurry of whispers. He leaned toward Kieran and spoke in a low voice. "Kieran, what's going on? First people were saying you kidnapped Prince Edouard and now they're saying you're a rogue wizard." He stared at Kieran with concern in his bright blue eyes. "You can tell me, can't you?" "I didn't kidnap Edouard," Kieran whispered back. "I took him to see a madrin so he could be cured."

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"You did?" Tank squeaked. "Did it work?"

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"Yes." Kieran almost smiled at the look of comical shock on Tank's face. "We were on our way back when we got word that the king had died. Edouard wanted me to stay with him until everything was resolved and that's why I didn't come back sooner." "Wow!" Tank's eyes went round with excitement. "So you're friends with the new king? That's fantastic!" Kieran just shrugged. "So about the other thing," Tank continued after a moment. "Why is everyone saying you're a rogue?" He watched Kieran's face with open curiosity as he spoke. "Well" Kieran began, struggling for the right words. He did not want to make Tank afraid of him, but neither did he want to lie to him. "I can do things other wizards can't," he said finally. "I can invent new spells just by thinking about what I want to do." "Really?" Tank stared in amazement. "And they put you in third year?" Tank's simple assessment of the situation suddenly eased Kieran's unhappiness. If the first thing Tank thought of was that he had been ranked incorrectly, maybe there was hope that others might see it that way too. He laughed softly. "I guess being around Edouard and trying to take care of him really brought it out. I was thinking so hard about protecting him that it never occurred to me that the spells I was coming up with had never been done before." Tank thought seriously about this for a moment and then a look of understanding dawned on his face. "I get it!" he exclaimed. "We learned in second year that rogue wizards can make up spells on the spot, which is why they can be so dangerous. The rest of us have to study and practice, and how good we get depends on how powerful we are and how hard we work at it." He peered hard at Kieran. "So by that definition, I guess you are a rogue."

"But I don't want to hurt anybody," Kieran said quickly.

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"I know that!" Tank said with easy confidence. He sat back with a wide smile. "Thanks for telling me. I feel a lot better now. I was really worried for a minute there." He looked over his shoulder at a nearby table. "Hey! There's nothing to worry about. Kieran's fine." At Tank's words, a couple of their classmates, Lisette among them, got up and came over to their table. "I'm so glad you're all right, Kieran!" Lisette said when she sat down. "We were really worried about you when you disappeared." "Yeah," another boy spoke up. He ran thick fingers through a mop of curly red hair. "People have being saying really stupid stuff about you. We've been defending you, but" he trailed off, looking guilty. "That part about you being a rogue kind of threw us," Lisette admitted. The red-haired boy nodded. "Kieran's got some exceptional skills," Tank put in quickly. "Personally, I think snobby wizards with weak powers slap that label on anybody who's more powerful than they are." "That's right!" a third boy said, nodding vigorously. "I'm sorry I didn't stick up for you more, Kieran." "That's all right." Kieran smiled around at his classmates. Until this moment, he had not realized that they were also his friends. "I got involved in things that maybe I shouldn't have. It's gotten me noticed and we servants have always known that being noticed is never a good thing." "That's the truth!" the red-head agreed emphatically. "So tell us what's been happening," Lisette said eagerly. "We students hear nothing but rumors and they're so distorted by the time we get them we have no idea what's really going on." She leaned forward expectantly and the others followed suit. Kieran was not sure how much he should tell them, but then he had not been specifically told to keep quiet and news of Imbario's crime and punishment would soon be known to everyone. So he kept

his voice low as he proceeded to tell them the story of his past few weeks. -o-o-o-

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Kieran stood carefully at attention in Divwall's study, where he had been summoned after dinner, facing the tall wizard. She regarded him silently from her customary padded chair, her expression unreadable. "We have decided that you should witness Imbario's binding ceremony," she said abruptly. Kieran stared. "Me? Why?" The corners of her mouth lifted into a humorless smile. "Some of the wizards on the judicial panel, namely Hothram, hope it will teach you to fear a conclave of wizards. But I suspect his intent will backfire." She tipped her head to one side as she studied him. "Tell me honestly: if you see the binding spell, you'll be able to counter it, won't you?" "I don't know, Lady Divwall," he answered honestly, but he shifted uncomfortably. "It's harder to counter something I've only seen, not felt." "But you will understand how the spell works, yes?" "Probably." Kieran ducked his head. Divwall smiled. "Thank you for being honest, Kieran. I will tell you truthfully that your abilities dismay me, but perhaps there is some degree of jealousy, too." She chuckled. "We wizards envy the powers others possess which we do not." "I never wanted to upset anyone," Kieran responded with an unhappy frown. "I know that, Kieran." Divwall stood up. "But you inspire fear just by existing, I'm afraid." She stepped forward and patted him on the shoulder. "But come. It's time for the ceremony." "Tonight?" Kieran stared at her in surprise.

"We don't like to wait on these things," she said with a sigh. "Not everyone agrees that Imbario is guilty, despite his attack on us. They will say he was provoked by you. So it's better to complete the ceremony as soon as possible. And binding is a dark power. It's better to do it at night." She turned Kieran by applying pressure to his shoulder and guided him to the door. In the hallway, she turned to the left and led Kieran to the end of the hall. They went down two flights of stairs and followed another hall past several closed doors, turned another corner and continued until the way was barred by a single door spanning the width of the hallway.

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Divwall stopped, rapped on the door once and whispered a spell under her breath. The door swung open. She glanced at Kieran. "The spell which opens this door is known only to a handful of senior wizards. Beyond it is the dungeon and the room we use for bindings. When the dungeon is occupied, this door is guarded day and night and opened only twice a day, when a servant is escorted inside to take the prisoners their meals. We do not often use it." She stepped inside with a resigned expression. Kieran followed her reluctantly. He had not wanted to know about this dark side of the Wizard's Hall. The door swung shut behind them, sealing them into a chilly darkness lit only by the flare of golden witch fire dancing above Divwall's palm. Beyond the door, the hallway narrowed and the stone walls became rougher. A dozen or so paces farther on the hallway became a steep staircase, descending into even chillier depths. At the bottom of the stairs on the right was a single door. Flickering light was visible through the opening and it was through this door that Divwall led him. A circular room constructed entirely of smoothly finished stone lay beyond the door. Torches flared in brackets equally spaced around the walls, staining the stones above them with soot. The floor of the room was painted with a series of concentric circles in shimmering white, spaced about an arm's length apart. Imbario stood in the centermost ring, stripped of his fine robes and wearing only a plain shirt and trousers. His feet were bare. Several wizards stood against the walls. Instinctively, Kieran counted them. There were eighteen. Divwall made nineteen as she closed the door behind him.

"Stand there," Divwall instructed. She pointed to a spot next to the door. She herself stood in front of the door, her arms folded under her breasts.

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Gavilan immediately stepped forward, stopping inside the outermost ring. "Tonight we will bind the powers of one of our brethren. We do this because he has used his power to bring harm to others, which is the greatest crime any wizard can commit. Ten wizards of the highest rank are required to perform a binding. Each of you here falls in this rank." At these words, the eyes of several wizards flicked to Kieran. Kieran blinked nervously. Gavilan continued without giving any sign that he had noticed. "Binding is a dark power that stains the soul of the wielder. No one may be compelled to practice this spell. Who will volunteer to perform this ceremony with me tonight?" Gavilan looked around the room. Divwall immediately stepped forward. One by one, other wizards stepped forward until ten of them stood just inside the outermost ring. Hothram remained against the wall, a harsh glare on his narrow face. Gavilan nodded. "Very well. The rest of you shall stand as witnesses. Let us begin." He lifted his hand, holding it with the palm pointing toward Imbario, and began to speak. The words of the spell were simple and Kieran recognized the intent immediately. It was similar to the suppression spell he had used. When Gavilan completed the spell, the wizard on his left lifted his hand and began to recite the spell in concert with Gavilan. Each time the spell was completed, another wizard joined until all ten were speaking. Once the spell was completed for the tenth time, the wizards stepped forward into the next circle and moved a pace to the left. They chanted the spell ten times and then stepped forward and to the left again. As they moved, Kieran could see the ropes of magic woven from the spell forming between Imbario and the palms of the wizards' hands. As they moved, the ropes wound around Imbario, settling onto him and sinking into his skin. The color slowly drained from Imbario's face as the ceremony proceeded and sweat trickled down as he watched the wizards move around him. Kieran wondered why he did not resist. But Imbario remained immobile as the wizards drew closer and closer to him, until they stood outside the circle containing him. As they completed the chant for the tenth time in that circle, the wizards reached out and touched him simultaneously.

Imbario threw his head back and screamed in anguish. His horrified shriek echoed from the stone walls and the torches guttered in response. The ten wizards stepped back, looking tired.

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"I will take him to his cell," Gavilan said. His face was drawn and haunted. He reached out and took Imbario by the arm. At his touch, Imbario collapsed to his knees, sobbing wretchedly. Another wizard, one of the witnesses, stepped forward. "I'll help you." Between them, they lifted Imbario to his feet and led him toward the door. Quickly, Kieran pulled it open and stepped back. Imbario rolled his eyes at Kieran as he went by, a look of seething hatred burning beneath the horror in his eyes. Kieran quickly turned away and found himself staring at Divwall's chin. He looked up into her eyes. "Why didn't he resist?" he whispered. "He could not," she replied gravely. "Once a wizard is placed inside the central circle, he cannot leave until he is escorted out." Divwall bowed her head. "Being placed in the circle is a horrible fate. The binding spell is evil." Her eyes, like Gavilan's, looked haunted. "I need to cleanse myself. Come." She led him out of the dungeon and back into the open hallways of the Hall. "You are to speak of the binding ceremony to no one," she said firmly, "including King Edouard. It is wizard's business." "Yes, my lady," Kieran murmured obediently. She put a heavy hand on his shoulder. "Life will not be easy for you for the next few months, but in time, if you do not exhibit any unusual talents, people will forget. Be patient and concentrate on your studies. Once you have sworn your oath of obedience and don robes with the royal crest on the shoulder, you will be trusted, as much as any of us ever is," she added with a harsh laugh. "My lady," Kieran began tentatively, "will I be allowed to visit Edouard?"

Divwall pursed her lips as she looked down at him. "If Edouard summons you to court, even I cannot tell him no," she said. "But your studies have to come first, is that clear?" "Yes, my lady!" Kieran could not help smiling. He could endure anything as long as he could still see Edouard.

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"Go to bed," Divwall ordered. "You've missed a lot of school. You have a lot of catching up to do." She trudged tiredly away, her shoulders slumped. Kieran hurried toward the tower, but as he rounded a corner, he came face to face with the wizard Hothram. The pinch-faced wizard glowered at him. "Do not think you are getting off scot-free, rogue!" the wizard hissed at him angrily. "I know what you are and I will never forget!" He whirled around and stamped away, his robes swishing sharply from side to side. Kieran watched him go. There was an undeniable stench of fear in the air. Hothram was afraid of him. Kieran absorbed the knowledge in silence. Fear made people dangerous, even more so than raw power. He would have to be careful. He lifted his hand and studied his own palm, coming to a sudden realization. The binding spell required ten wizards because that was the only way they could make the spell permanent. Otherwise, the spell would fade over time. If a single wizard cast the spell, it would temporarily disable another wizard, but eventually that wizard's powers would return. On the other hand, the protection spell he had put on Edouard was permanent. Kieran looked up at Hothram's retreating back. I could cast the binding spell by myself and make it permanent, he thought, and I know how to counter it. I could break the binding spell on Imbario if I wanted to. -o-o-o-o-o-o"Is Kieran here yet?" Edouard demanded anxiously when Landon entered his room. Landon chuckled warmly. "Not yet, Sire."

"But the ferry should have arrived an hour ago! Didn't you send a carriage to fetch him like I ordered?"

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"I did, Sire," Landon said with amused patience. "You should finish reviewing those recommendations for Royal Wizard." "I'll do it later," Edouard said impatiently. He tossed the pages onto the table in front of the couch. He should have left them in his study, but everyone was anxious about the appointment of a new Royal Wizard. But it had been three weeks since Kieran returned to Bright Isle and Edouard missed him. According to Colwyn, he was settling back into his studies and was doing all right, but Edouard would not believe it until he heard it from Kieran's lips. He jumped to his feet at a knock on the door, but remained where he was at a stern glance from Landon. Landon was determined to make him behave with a king's dignity at all times. But dignity flew out the window when Landon opened the door and Kieran stepped in. Edouard raced around the table and embraced him happily. "Kieran! I missed you! How have you been?" "I am well, Your Majesty," Kieran replied a little stiffly. Curious people peered through the still open door at them and Landon closed it with a muffled snort. Kieran's arms immediately tightened around Edouard's waist. "I missed you too, Edouard," he said. "How have you been getting on?" "Just fine." Edouard took his hand and led him back to the couch to sit down. "Governing is much easier than I expected. Most of the time I just read reports and sign them. I remember Father hated reading the reports, but I'm used to spending most of my time reading. I should probably get outside more, but I never think of it." He grinned at Kieran. "Maybe I should come visit you on Bright Isle." "I would like that." Kieran returned his smile.

"So how is it for you?" Edouard watched his face, looking for signs of unhappiness.

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"All right, I guess. A lot of people don't trust me and some are still afraid of me, but it's getting better." He folded Edouard's hands in his. "I wish I could see you more." "But you need to study," Edouard finished for him. "You have to finish your training so you can serve me here at court." "Yes." Kieran nodded. "That's what I want, so I'm working very hard." "Good." Edouard fell silent, studying Kieran's face. The young wizard returned his gaze, his dark eyes full of secrets. "I still feel like there's so much I don't know about you," he said softly. "There is much less to me than people think," Kieran replied just as softly. "Becoming a royal wizard so I can serve you is all I want." Edouard smiled. "Having only one goal does not make you simple, Kieran. It makes you focused. Perhaps that is why people fear you; because they know they cannot buy your loyalty." Edouard raised his voice. "Landon, Kieran will stay in my room tonight. We only have one night, so I don't want to waste any of it." "Very well, Sire. I will have dinner brought here." "Thank you." Edouard grinned at Kieran. "And make sure they have grilled tomatoes with cheese tonight. And we want tomatoes and sausages for breakfast." "And porridge too," Kieran added with a wide smile. "Yes, and porridge!" Landon shook his head in amused resignation as the two young men giggled at each other, their hands still intertwined. "Will there be anything else, Sire?" "No, thank you, Landon," Edouard replied, trying to still his laughter without success.

"Then I will leave you until dinner." Landon bowed and left, still shaking his head.

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As the door closed behind him, Edouard dissolved into a gale of laughter. "I should make them serve sausages and porridge for breakfast! The nobles would have fits!" "You wouldn't!" Kieran laughed "It would be funny!" Edouard leaned back against the couch. "And it would keep them on their toes. They need to learn that I am not my father." His laughter faded and he sighed. "You are not the only one who has much to learn." He glanced at the papers on the table. They were the recommendations for Royal Wizard sent from various noble families. Most of them were promoting some relative or other who had managed to get through the academy and graduate with a royal crest on his or her shoulder. "I wish I didn't have to pick someone to serve as Royal Wizard until you graduate. I really don't need anyone but you at my side." Kieran squeezed his hand. "I will always be at your side, Edouard, even if I am not your Royal Wizard. I will serve you even without the title." "I know." Edouard returned his gaze to Kieran's face. "But your friendship means more to me than your obedience, always remember that." Kieran nodded and a smile spread slowly over his face. "Will you read to me from one of your books?" he asked unexpectedly. "I've started learning to read at the academy and I want to practice." "Of course!" Edouard exclaimed happily. "I love reading!" He jumped up and started for his bedroom, where he kept his books. Then he whirled toward Kieran. "I know! I have a book about madrin that Colwyn gave me. Let's start with that." "That's perfect," Kieran said, his eyes shining. Much later, after dinner was eaten and the dishes cleared away, when the palace was sinking into silent slumber, Landon and

Justus found the two young men in Edouard's bed sound asleep facing each other, the book lying on the coverlet between them. With a warm smile, Landon moved the book to the night table and he and Justus covered the pair with a blanket. "We should probably not let them spend the night like this," Justus whispered.

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"Probably not," Landon agreed, "but perhaps we can allow it this one time." He gestured at Edouard. "I have never seen him smile in his sleep before." Justus smiled affectionately at his king and nodded. "Yes, perhaps just this one night." Quietly, the two servants left, leaving the young king and his wizard companion to sleep in peace. -o- The End -o-