Hi All.
I would appreciate any feedback you might want to give on the following chapters. Please be sure to make your comments in the "comments" thread though, in case anyone is interested enough in my story to want to be able to access the chapters without sorting though comments. Comments thread is available at:
kevinswatch.ihugny.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=9180
I realize the landscape isn't fleshed out much. The chapters are very short for being a "real" book, it's just an outline of the "high" points and building, to develop the story. Once I finish getting to where I'm going, if anyone is interested, I will rewrite it into a final draft, that's much longer.
Anyway, without further ado, the next posts will be chapters for your perusal. (sp?) It's about a Grey Owl Wizard (BTW, a bad habit I have is having no preference for gray or grey, so, I use both) and his Apprentice.
"Legends of Sindatur" - Story Thread
Moderators: deer of the dawn, Furls Fire
CHAPTER 1: THE APPRENTICE
A dark breezy morning at the Warrior's Guild as a 17 year old blond Human
boy dressed in battle leathers clanks scimitars with the highest ranked
instructor in the Warrior's Guild, holding his own, despite the fact he's half
his age. The boy jabs, and spins, and deflects everything that the older
man can subject him to.
"Dolpher, We've given you all we can give. We can no longer train you. You're
taking time away from the recruits who need our guidance. Your scores
bypass the 100% mark on any test we put in front of you. We would gladly
take your service teaching your peers. Unfortunately, the Magic council has
decreed we can't have you. They tell us they can teach you. They're not
comfortable with your training ending this early. The council believes
training can never be complete without the years, despite the marks."
Proposed the Instructor.
Dolpher bows, "Of course "La'Sage" I'll do anything the council requests of
me. I desire only to fulfill my destiny. If the council decrees it's through
magic, then there, I must go."
Dolpher heads home on the cobblestone path from the Warrior's Guild
through the center of town. He walked with a gait that suggested
nervousness of the unknown, in the Magician's Guild. Being an
overachiever in the Warrior's Guild came as second nature to him and
provided him with great security and self confidence. Could he perform
Magic as well? At the same time, it seemed to also give him a spring in
his step, to know this was a reward and imagining the opportunity to be
able to excel to perfection with a second Guild craft.
Finally, arriving home, he beams at his father, Ortho, a stocky brunette man
with the withering lines of age and scars across his face showing his years of
dedication to the Warrior's Guild. His mother, Ox'Ana, sidled in with a tray of
piping hot snacks. Ox'Ana was the belle of the village, with her long blonde
hair, green eyes, the face of an angel and a svelte figure other women could
only aspire to.
Ortho looked at the pleasure in his son's eyes and asked about his day.
Dolpher replied, "Father La Sage informed me today that I will be transferring to
the Magician's Guild".
Ortho turned red and shouted, "Dolpher...You've shamed the family? 15
Generations graduating with the highest marks of our peers, and you've been
thrown out? And you express pride in this failure?"
"No father, you don't understand. I wasn't discharged for my failure, the
Guild masters couldn't teach me anymore. I've surpassed their ability to train
me. That's why they've transferred me, because my Guild work will never be
considered finished in only 4 years, but the Warriors can teach me no more,
so I need to perfect a new Guild, a new craft. The Council has determined
that to be magic. I am willing to face any Warrior's challenge you see fit to
test me with, to prove my worthiness of the family blood, Father".
Sindatur, a 4 ft. tall Grey Owl Wizard awoke with trepidation to the sound of
the golden brook outside his window. For today, his 800th birthday, was to be
a special day. All wizards take on their apprentice on their 1/4 life birthday.
For most beings this would be a mere 30-50 years into their expected days.
Normally wizards look forward to this day greatly, Sindatur, however, did
not. The Council in all it’s infinite wisdom had decreed years ago that the
most talented Wizards would train the least promising apprentices, believing
they would benefit best from the most accomplished wizards teaching them.
Sindatur feared he would be assigned the absolute least promising apprentice,
a human. He, of course knew, with his talent he couldn’t hope for an Owl or a
Opossum, but perhaps he would only be burdened with a Walek* . This however,
was probably too much to hope for.
He got up, fluffed his tail feathers, and headed into the dining area. A
Magnificent array of cupboards and windows. He sat down at his 6-seater
round table and conjured a cup of steaming blue brew. Reaching down into
the mail slot with his craft, he grabbed the morning daily parchment containing
town bulletins and hemmed and hawed at the events. Getting up he threw on
his cape, and headed down to the council chambers.
Walking out his double hinged door he looks back at the 5 room bungalow,
carved into the oldest redwood in the village, that he has called home for 750
years. Gazing into the living room window he takes in his memorabilia and
thinks back upon older days. Simpler days when he was the Apprentice, before
he became bitter. Walking along the Cobblestone path he takes in the 1000
year old oak where the Magistrate resides, adorned with majestic tan mottling,
a while further the 900 year old oak housing La'Sage of the Warrior's Guild.
Passing the Leathers and Furriers Sindatur raises his wing and calls out to a
Human, "Good afternoon, Ortho, I see in the Daily Parchment it says that your
son has been discharged from the Warrior's Guild. My Condolences, your family
has always excelled in that particular guild"
The Human man replies back, proudly, avoiding acknowledgment of the news
about his son, "Good afternoon Sindatur. I understand you take on an
apprentice today."
Sindatur picks at his wingtips with his beak, as he sardonically replies,
"Yes! The day all Wizards look forward to most". Continuing to hurry along, he
passes a few more shops on the way to the Council's Chamber Hall.
Passing the Fishery, Sindatur repeats the ritual with an Opossum, "Good
Afternoon Jonas. Good lunch? You'll soon have a new customer, I'm taking on
my apprentice tonight"
"Wonderful lunch Sindatur, thanks. I would be honored to serve an
apprentice promising enough to earn your guidance. Have a wonderful
day""
Once in the Council Hall, he sat anxiously in his assigned place, and tried
to resign himself to his fate, preening his feathers as he waited. The females
of the village filter past, waving and smiling, on their way to their seats, while
Sindatur fluffs his tail feathers ever more.
The crowd erupts into an indistinguishable buzz of gasps and hushes, as the
big iron door at the rear of the room swings open. Into the chamber walks a
rather stern looking Opossum, who sat at the head of the council table and
pounded his gavel three times, to bring this session to order.
As Sindatur preened the end of his left wing The Opossum called out in an
authoritative voice, “Sindatur, Please step forward. Today is the day Wizard’s
wait their whole life for, the taking of an Apprentice to carry on their work. I
present to you Dolpher”
In walks a human boy, about the age of 17. Sindatur’s tail feathers ruffle.
Sindatur recognizes the youth from watching the Warrior's apprentices file
through town on a daily basis, and balks, "Magistrate, this simply isn’t fair,
not only do you saddle me with a human apprentice, but one who has already
failed his tasks in the Warrior’s Guild? What can I teach him? You know humans
are slow to conquer the disciplines of magic, and this one can’t even be relied
upon to absorb physical fighting skills, which is the only aptitude they seem
capable of mastering.”
Dolpher lowers his head in shame, as the Magistrate addresses Sindatur’s
concern.
“Sindatur, Dolpher has not washed out of the Warrior’s Guild, we pulled him
out, for you, to pass on your knowledge to. On the contrary, Dolpher made the
highest marks ever, for a student so young. Greatly bypassing those twice
his age. The Warrior’s Guild could teach him no more. Signs point to something
dark coming, and we need you to have his strength.”
"I will do as the Council has requested, but, I have no faith in the success
of my endeavor",protested Sindatur. Turning to Dolpher, he ordered,
"Apprentice, I expect you to arrive at my burrow by the last beam of evening
light, you will require extensive training."
A dark breezy morning at the Warrior's Guild as a 17 year old blond Human
boy dressed in battle leathers clanks scimitars with the highest ranked
instructor in the Warrior's Guild, holding his own, despite the fact he's half
his age. The boy jabs, and spins, and deflects everything that the older
man can subject him to.
"Dolpher, We've given you all we can give. We can no longer train you. You're
taking time away from the recruits who need our guidance. Your scores
bypass the 100% mark on any test we put in front of you. We would gladly
take your service teaching your peers. Unfortunately, the Magic council has
decreed we can't have you. They tell us they can teach you. They're not
comfortable with your training ending this early. The council believes
training can never be complete without the years, despite the marks."
Proposed the Instructor.
Dolpher bows, "Of course "La'Sage" I'll do anything the council requests of
me. I desire only to fulfill my destiny. If the council decrees it's through
magic, then there, I must go."
Dolpher heads home on the cobblestone path from the Warrior's Guild
through the center of town. He walked with a gait that suggested
nervousness of the unknown, in the Magician's Guild. Being an
overachiever in the Warrior's Guild came as second nature to him and
provided him with great security and self confidence. Could he perform
Magic as well? At the same time, it seemed to also give him a spring in
his step, to know this was a reward and imagining the opportunity to be
able to excel to perfection with a second Guild craft.
Finally, arriving home, he beams at his father, Ortho, a stocky brunette man
with the withering lines of age and scars across his face showing his years of
dedication to the Warrior's Guild. His mother, Ox'Ana, sidled in with a tray of
piping hot snacks. Ox'Ana was the belle of the village, with her long blonde
hair, green eyes, the face of an angel and a svelte figure other women could
only aspire to.
Ortho looked at the pleasure in his son's eyes and asked about his day.
Dolpher replied, "Father La Sage informed me today that I will be transferring to
the Magician's Guild".
Ortho turned red and shouted, "Dolpher...You've shamed the family? 15
Generations graduating with the highest marks of our peers, and you've been
thrown out? And you express pride in this failure?"
"No father, you don't understand. I wasn't discharged for my failure, the
Guild masters couldn't teach me anymore. I've surpassed their ability to train
me. That's why they've transferred me, because my Guild work will never be
considered finished in only 4 years, but the Warriors can teach me no more,
so I need to perfect a new Guild, a new craft. The Council has determined
that to be magic. I am willing to face any Warrior's challenge you see fit to
test me with, to prove my worthiness of the family blood, Father".
Sindatur, a 4 ft. tall Grey Owl Wizard awoke with trepidation to the sound of
the golden brook outside his window. For today, his 800th birthday, was to be
a special day. All wizards take on their apprentice on their 1/4 life birthday.
For most beings this would be a mere 30-50 years into their expected days.
Normally wizards look forward to this day greatly, Sindatur, however, did
not. The Council in all it’s infinite wisdom had decreed years ago that the
most talented Wizards would train the least promising apprentices, believing
they would benefit best from the most accomplished wizards teaching them.
Sindatur feared he would be assigned the absolute least promising apprentice,
a human. He, of course knew, with his talent he couldn’t hope for an Owl or a
Opossum, but perhaps he would only be burdened with a Walek* . This however,
was probably too much to hope for.
He got up, fluffed his tail feathers, and headed into the dining area. A
Magnificent array of cupboards and windows. He sat down at his 6-seater
round table and conjured a cup of steaming blue brew. Reaching down into
the mail slot with his craft, he grabbed the morning daily parchment containing
town bulletins and hemmed and hawed at the events. Getting up he threw on
his cape, and headed down to the council chambers.
Walking out his double hinged door he looks back at the 5 room bungalow,
carved into the oldest redwood in the village, that he has called home for 750
years. Gazing into the living room window he takes in his memorabilia and
thinks back upon older days. Simpler days when he was the Apprentice, before
he became bitter. Walking along the Cobblestone path he takes in the 1000
year old oak where the Magistrate resides, adorned with majestic tan mottling,
a while further the 900 year old oak housing La'Sage of the Warrior's Guild.
Passing the Leathers and Furriers Sindatur raises his wing and calls out to a
Human, "Good afternoon, Ortho, I see in the Daily Parchment it says that your
son has been discharged from the Warrior's Guild. My Condolences, your family
has always excelled in that particular guild"
The Human man replies back, proudly, avoiding acknowledgment of the news
about his son, "Good afternoon Sindatur. I understand you take on an
apprentice today."
Sindatur picks at his wingtips with his beak, as he sardonically replies,
"Yes! The day all Wizards look forward to most". Continuing to hurry along, he
passes a few more shops on the way to the Council's Chamber Hall.
Passing the Fishery, Sindatur repeats the ritual with an Opossum, "Good
Afternoon Jonas. Good lunch? You'll soon have a new customer, I'm taking on
my apprentice tonight"
"Wonderful lunch Sindatur, thanks. I would be honored to serve an
apprentice promising enough to earn your guidance. Have a wonderful
day""
Once in the Council Hall, he sat anxiously in his assigned place, and tried
to resign himself to his fate, preening his feathers as he waited. The females
of the village filter past, waving and smiling, on their way to their seats, while
Sindatur fluffs his tail feathers ever more.
The crowd erupts into an indistinguishable buzz of gasps and hushes, as the
big iron door at the rear of the room swings open. Into the chamber walks a
rather stern looking Opossum, who sat at the head of the council table and
pounded his gavel three times, to bring this session to order.
As Sindatur preened the end of his left wing The Opossum called out in an
authoritative voice, “Sindatur, Please step forward. Today is the day Wizard’s
wait their whole life for, the taking of an Apprentice to carry on their work. I
present to you Dolpher”
In walks a human boy, about the age of 17. Sindatur’s tail feathers ruffle.
Sindatur recognizes the youth from watching the Warrior's apprentices file
through town on a daily basis, and balks, "Magistrate, this simply isn’t fair,
not only do you saddle me with a human apprentice, but one who has already
failed his tasks in the Warrior’s Guild? What can I teach him? You know humans
are slow to conquer the disciplines of magic, and this one can’t even be relied
upon to absorb physical fighting skills, which is the only aptitude they seem
capable of mastering.”
Dolpher lowers his head in shame, as the Magistrate addresses Sindatur’s
concern.
“Sindatur, Dolpher has not washed out of the Warrior’s Guild, we pulled him
out, for you, to pass on your knowledge to. On the contrary, Dolpher made the
highest marks ever, for a student so young. Greatly bypassing those twice
his age. The Warrior’s Guild could teach him no more. Signs point to something
dark coming, and we need you to have his strength.”
"I will do as the Council has requested, but, I have no faith in the success
of my endeavor",protested Sindatur. Turning to Dolpher, he ordered,
"Apprentice, I expect you to arrive at my burrow by the last beam of evening
light, you will require extensive training."
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 2: THE TRAINING BEGINS
Dolpher arrives promptly as the last beam of evening light fades from the
sky exclaiming, "Master, I've come as you requested. I'm ready to begin my
training".
"Thank you Apprentice, perhaps,... there is hope for you yet" replied Sindatur.
"I will begin with having you blend some magical powders." Sindatur proceeds
to pull down a mixing bowl, a pulveriser and a wingful of mini burlap
bags, then proceeds to thrust them on the table in front of the youth. "Boy,
grab me a jar of the blue leaves, the red twigs, and the green powder labeled
Amoxill"
Dolpher does as instructed, and places the jars upon the table.
"Now Young one, watch me and remember" Sindatur counts out 25 stems, 12
leaves and picks up the pulveriser. "Smash the leaves and stems until they
become a fine powder. Remember my Apprentice, I am grinding in a West-to-East
motion. While you can certainly accomplish mixing the powder in the other
direction, the laws of probability work more favorably, in the proper motion.
Once the stems and leaves are properly ground, we add the Amoxill powder." He
adds the green powder, and a royal blue flash appears. "Notice the color of
the flash, the closer it is to the hue of your own eyes, the more proficient
your powder will be. Now, once again, grind your ingredients in a
West-to-Easterly motion. And now, you simply spoon it into the bags, only one
scoop, per bag"
Dolpher grabs the jar of leaves and counts out 25, takes 12 stems out of the
twig jar, and begins to mash the ingredients into a very fine powder, grinding
in an East-to-Westerly direction. Dolpher can't withhold the beaming smile on
his face, so proud of his accomplishment. He shyly reaches into the Amoxill
powder jar, grabs a pinch and tosses it into the concoction. Immediately, an
orange flash appears, and Dolpher's beaming smile turns to disappointment.
"Notice Apprentice, your eyes are brown, and your powder emitted an orange
reflux. You have made two errors, that is satisfactory for the first attempt
of a human. Try again and see if you can't perform towards the level of at
least a Walek "
Dolpher having an amazing grasp of strategy, examines the mechanics of his
previous attempt and determines he must've mixed up the dosage of the
ingredients and, with nothing further that could've gone wrong, deduces that he
must've ground the mixture backwards. Proceeding with his next attempt Dolpher
grabs the jar of leaves and counts out 12, then selects 25 stems out of the
twig jar, and once again mashes the ingredients into a very fine powder,
grinding this time in the opposite direction. Apprehensively he grabs a pinch
of the green powder and adds it into the blend. Immediately, a friendly
chocolate brown flash appears, and Dolpher's beaming smile returns.
Sindatur's frown, ever so slightly diminishes as he instructs Dolpher to go
ahead and scoop the powder into it's bags, instructing him to attach green tags
to identify the satchels.
"Now Apprentice, grab a jar of the yellow leaves, purple flowers, and the pink
Jurot powder. Proceed as you did with the Amoxill powder, only this time the
flowers take the place of the stems."
Sindatur counts out 25 flowers, 12 leaves and pulverizes them in a West-to-East
direction. "Once again when the proper powder consistency is achieved you
introduce the Jurot Powder into the concoction, like so." A royal blue flash
radiates, and Sindatur proceeds in a West-to-East motion with his grinding.
Dolpher repeats his Master's motions except he once again grinds in the wrong
direction, although he did at least get the right count of flowers and leaves,
and was rewarded with a warm burnt orange flash. The second attempt he changed
direction as well as the leaves to flowers ratio, and received the same warm
burnt orange glow. The third attempt, he finally gained an acceptable
chocolate brown. Finally Sindatur suggests, "Label this one with a
pink tag.
Tomorrow we will demonstrate the effects of these powders and discuss your
errors.
Dolpher bounces home, excited that he's created magic for the first time,
slightly anxious due to Sindatur's dissatisfaction with him. Throwing the door
open, he finds his father in his big easy chair pouring over the day's events
in the Daily Parchment.
"Father, I did it! I mixed Amoxill Powder and Jurot Powder!" he exclaimed.
"I don't think my Master was very pleased though. He was upset that it took me
two attempts to mix it right.
Ox'Ana chimed in, "That's wonderful Dolpher. I knew you could do it. Pay no
mind to that crusty old owl. He doesn't like other races. If he didn't
accept you, he wouldn't teach you. A single mistake on your first attempt is
good for any craft. The important thing is that you did succeed"
"Ox'Ana, don't fill the boy's head with trivialities. He made mistakes. He
must correct those mistakes and do better tomorrow. Even the most prejudiced
can be broken if you give them reason to respect you." Ortho replied as he
stroked the scar on his left cheek. "Go to bed now Dolpher, and get a good
night's sleep, so you can perform better tomorrow"
Dolpher arrives the next evening for his lesson, with a bounce in his step,
and Sindatur leads him down the path to the Golden Brook out back.
"Now Boy, Take one of your green tagged powders and toss it into the water"
Dolpher reaches into his pocket, grabs a parcel and tosses it into the river.
"Now young one, walk across the water."
"Master"? Dolpher inquired.
"Do as I have commanded Boy", Sindatur bellowed.
Dolpher apprehensively tests the stability of the water, and to his amazement
finds it to be a gelatinous substance, which does indeed allow him to walk
across the water. Dolpher smiles in amazement at his accomplishment.
"You have now performed magic young one. Not all magic is this easy, nor do
you have it perfect, it will accomplish you little to smirk. Observe how you
sink slightly. A true wizard would not be walking on such a bouncy substance.
A true wizard would make a powder strong enough for the water to be solid"
Still impressed with himself, Dolpher ventures further left, and all of a sudden,
SPLASH, Dolpher finds himself completely immersed in the water. "Master, What
have I done wrong?" quizzed Dolpher.
"This powder is not meant to turn the entire river solid, merely to give you a
path to walk across, and the effect only lasts a limited time, as it would do
no good to allow enemies chasing you to use your escape route. This powder
may one day protect you from the felines or something equally dangerous, they
detest water and would never follow you across a brook. And now, take a bag
of Jurot powder and slam it into the ground. This will provide a glimmer
affect, drying your wetness, unmussing the hair, for a lady it will refresh her
makeup, it will heal minor skin abrasions, even shave a day's growth from your
face and when mixed by a competent enough wizard can be used long term to aid
in the healing of puncture battle wounds, although you need not concern
yourself with that talent. Humans are simply not adept enough with the craft."
Dolpher pulls out a green tagged satchel and slams it to the ground, drying his
skin and his leathers perfectly from head to toe. However, rather than
cleaning the small bit of stubble from his chin, it gave him a perfect
5 O'clock shadow. While becoming to his innocent boyish appearance, it quite
obviously distressed Sindatur, as was foretold by the look in his eyes and the
gasp of frustration.
"I can expect no more from one of your race, the task at hand was to dry your
mistake with the brook, not to prepare you for a beauty contest", harrumphed the
wizened old owl. "You have performed to a minimal acceptance level. I may
never be able to be proud of you, but, at least I can take comfort that I
likely won't be ashamed of you.
Dolpher arrives promptly as the last beam of evening light fades from the
sky exclaiming, "Master, I've come as you requested. I'm ready to begin my
training".
"Thank you Apprentice, perhaps,... there is hope for you yet" replied Sindatur.
"I will begin with having you blend some magical powders." Sindatur proceeds
to pull down a mixing bowl, a pulveriser and a wingful of mini burlap
bags, then proceeds to thrust them on the table in front of the youth. "Boy,
grab me a jar of the blue leaves, the red twigs, and the green powder labeled
Amoxill"
Dolpher does as instructed, and places the jars upon the table.
"Now Young one, watch me and remember" Sindatur counts out 25 stems, 12
leaves and picks up the pulveriser. "Smash the leaves and stems until they
become a fine powder. Remember my Apprentice, I am grinding in a West-to-East
motion. While you can certainly accomplish mixing the powder in the other
direction, the laws of probability work more favorably, in the proper motion.
Once the stems and leaves are properly ground, we add the Amoxill powder." He
adds the green powder, and a royal blue flash appears. "Notice the color of
the flash, the closer it is to the hue of your own eyes, the more proficient
your powder will be. Now, once again, grind your ingredients in a
West-to-Easterly motion. And now, you simply spoon it into the bags, only one
scoop, per bag"
Dolpher grabs the jar of leaves and counts out 25, takes 12 stems out of the
twig jar, and begins to mash the ingredients into a very fine powder, grinding
in an East-to-Westerly direction. Dolpher can't withhold the beaming smile on
his face, so proud of his accomplishment. He shyly reaches into the Amoxill
powder jar, grabs a pinch and tosses it into the concoction. Immediately, an
orange flash appears, and Dolpher's beaming smile turns to disappointment.
"Notice Apprentice, your eyes are brown, and your powder emitted an orange
reflux. You have made two errors, that is satisfactory for the first attempt
of a human. Try again and see if you can't perform towards the level of at
least a Walek "
Dolpher having an amazing grasp of strategy, examines the mechanics of his
previous attempt and determines he must've mixed up the dosage of the
ingredients and, with nothing further that could've gone wrong, deduces that he
must've ground the mixture backwards. Proceeding with his next attempt Dolpher
grabs the jar of leaves and counts out 12, then selects 25 stems out of the
twig jar, and once again mashes the ingredients into a very fine powder,
grinding this time in the opposite direction. Apprehensively he grabs a pinch
of the green powder and adds it into the blend. Immediately, a friendly
chocolate brown flash appears, and Dolpher's beaming smile returns.
Sindatur's frown, ever so slightly diminishes as he instructs Dolpher to go
ahead and scoop the powder into it's bags, instructing him to attach green tags
to identify the satchels.
"Now Apprentice, grab a jar of the yellow leaves, purple flowers, and the pink
Jurot powder. Proceed as you did with the Amoxill powder, only this time the
flowers take the place of the stems."
Sindatur counts out 25 flowers, 12 leaves and pulverizes them in a West-to-East
direction. "Once again when the proper powder consistency is achieved you
introduce the Jurot Powder into the concoction, like so." A royal blue flash
radiates, and Sindatur proceeds in a West-to-East motion with his grinding.
Dolpher repeats his Master's motions except he once again grinds in the wrong
direction, although he did at least get the right count of flowers and leaves,
and was rewarded with a warm burnt orange flash. The second attempt he changed
direction as well as the leaves to flowers ratio, and received the same warm
burnt orange glow. The third attempt, he finally gained an acceptable
chocolate brown. Finally Sindatur suggests, "Label this one with a
pink tag.
Tomorrow we will demonstrate the effects of these powders and discuss your
errors.
Dolpher bounces home, excited that he's created magic for the first time,
slightly anxious due to Sindatur's dissatisfaction with him. Throwing the door
open, he finds his father in his big easy chair pouring over the day's events
in the Daily Parchment.
"Father, I did it! I mixed Amoxill Powder and Jurot Powder!" he exclaimed.
"I don't think my Master was very pleased though. He was upset that it took me
two attempts to mix it right.
Ox'Ana chimed in, "That's wonderful Dolpher. I knew you could do it. Pay no
mind to that crusty old owl. He doesn't like other races. If he didn't
accept you, he wouldn't teach you. A single mistake on your first attempt is
good for any craft. The important thing is that you did succeed"
"Ox'Ana, don't fill the boy's head with trivialities. He made mistakes. He
must correct those mistakes and do better tomorrow. Even the most prejudiced
can be broken if you give them reason to respect you." Ortho replied as he
stroked the scar on his left cheek. "Go to bed now Dolpher, and get a good
night's sleep, so you can perform better tomorrow"
Dolpher arrives the next evening for his lesson, with a bounce in his step,
and Sindatur leads him down the path to the Golden Brook out back.
"Now Boy, Take one of your green tagged powders and toss it into the water"
Dolpher reaches into his pocket, grabs a parcel and tosses it into the river.
"Now young one, walk across the water."
"Master"? Dolpher inquired.
"Do as I have commanded Boy", Sindatur bellowed.
Dolpher apprehensively tests the stability of the water, and to his amazement
finds it to be a gelatinous substance, which does indeed allow him to walk
across the water. Dolpher smiles in amazement at his accomplishment.
"You have now performed magic young one. Not all magic is this easy, nor do
you have it perfect, it will accomplish you little to smirk. Observe how you
sink slightly. A true wizard would not be walking on such a bouncy substance.
A true wizard would make a powder strong enough for the water to be solid"
Still impressed with himself, Dolpher ventures further left, and all of a sudden,
SPLASH, Dolpher finds himself completely immersed in the water. "Master, What
have I done wrong?" quizzed Dolpher.
"This powder is not meant to turn the entire river solid, merely to give you a
path to walk across, and the effect only lasts a limited time, as it would do
no good to allow enemies chasing you to use your escape route. This powder
may one day protect you from the felines or something equally dangerous, they
detest water and would never follow you across a brook. And now, take a bag
of Jurot powder and slam it into the ground. This will provide a glimmer
affect, drying your wetness, unmussing the hair, for a lady it will refresh her
makeup, it will heal minor skin abrasions, even shave a day's growth from your
face and when mixed by a competent enough wizard can be used long term to aid
in the healing of puncture battle wounds, although you need not concern
yourself with that talent. Humans are simply not adept enough with the craft."
Dolpher pulls out a green tagged satchel and slams it to the ground, drying his
skin and his leathers perfectly from head to toe. However, rather than
cleaning the small bit of stubble from his chin, it gave him a perfect
5 O'clock shadow. While becoming to his innocent boyish appearance, it quite
obviously distressed Sindatur, as was foretold by the look in his eyes and the
gasp of frustration.
"I can expect no more from one of your race, the task at hand was to dry your
mistake with the brook, not to prepare you for a beauty contest", harrumphed the
wizened old owl. "You have performed to a minimal acceptance level. I may
never be able to be proud of you, but, at least I can take comfort that I
likely won't be ashamed of you.
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 3: THE REASON (SINDATUR IS THE WAY HE IS)
After closing the door as Dolpher goes home from his first lesson, Sindatur
settles himself into his dining table and thinks back to his own days training
under his own Master. With a smile he remembers the reverence he held for
Dephia's discipline. He'd never seen a Walek before, nor since with Delphia's
command of their art. Running through the memories he glowed. Finally he
remembers the day Delphia was lost and his smiled diminished. Wiping the tears
from his cheeks and eyes, Sindatur waddles with his head hung low, and starts
towards his bed as the first rays of sunlight rise above the hilltop.
Dolpher wakes to the chirping of birds, in the first light of dawn, having just
retired at mid-night. Slipping into his battle leathers, he decides to face the
day with the words of Sindatur, Ortho, and of course Ox'Ana on his mind.
Dolpher sets out to the market place to purchase some leaves, twigs, flowers
and powders, for practicing the craft on his own, feeling the longing for
praise with every step he takes along the magical road.
Arriving at the Market Place, he finds the shop with the Runes upon the front
windows, immediately next door to the Fishery. Entering the shop, he looks
around in amazement of the sights in front of his eyes. Rows upon rows of
different colored leaves, powders, flowers, and stems. With a sinking feeling
in his stomach, Dolpher notices that several containers displaying identical
looking stems are labeled with a myriad of different names. Hoping for some
relief, he moves onto the flower section, and finds the same results, likewise
for the other ingredients he'd already become familiar with.
Just then, as the panic sets in, the Opossum who was behind the counter, had
made his way to Dolpher, and was displaying a jovial expression. "Anything I
can do for you", the Opossum belted out.
As Dolpher's heart skipped a beat, his ears turned red and sweat began to
drip down his face, he meekly replied, "I had my first lesson last night and
was trying to purchase ingredients to practice what I've learned, but, I didn't
realize that there are so many different things that look alike and I didn't
learn the names of the ingredients"
"I could surely help you, but, your Master would surely see this as undermining
your training. So, I can only sell you what you specifically ask for. I will,
however, warn you, that you don't want to "take a stab" at the ingredients.
Without the proper knowledge, you can make some very dangerous mistakes", he
happily pointed out. "Learn the names today and Wait until tomorrow to impress
your Master ".
"Thank you sir, I'm Dolpher and I'll return tomorrow"
"I'll look forward to it lad. I'm Jonas"
With a sluggish gait Dolpher headed to the door, opened it as the bell sounded,
and resigned himself to the wait. "I really need to find a way to win my
Master's respect", he thought to himself. Making his way across town and the
woods, he arrives home, and skirts into his room, for a day of contemplation.
The last beams of daylight begin to become apparent, and Dolpher lifts himself
up, knowing he must portray confidence for his Master. Arriving at the
Majestic Redwood tree housing Sindatur's bungalow, he knocks and forces a smile
onto his face.
Opening the door with an air of superiority Sindatur looks up his beak at his
apprentice, who's standing there with his heart in his hand. Stepping away
from the opening, Sindatur fluffs his tail feathers with his beak.
"Master, I didn't notice the names of the twigs, flowers and leaves, I
mistakenly thought remembering the color would be sufficient. I intended to
buy ingredients to practice what you've taught me. But Jonas the magic
shopkeeper wouldn't help me, because I didn't know the names of what I needed.
He said you would think he'd be interfering in my training. Can you please
tell me the names?"
"I'm impressed by your enthusiasm apprentice. I have already written down the
recipes for you for these first two. I was merely waiting for you to realize the
importance. In future, I expect you to record the proper identifications and
instructions for blending on your own."
Sindatur Goes to the glass cabinets And selects jars containing orange flowers,
Red leaves, and a blue powder labeled Telkon. Going through the exact same
ritual as with the Jurot powder, and is rewarded with the same Royal Blue
flash. "Now Apprentice, if you've written everything down properly, you should
be able to produce this powder."
Dolpher gathers the leaves and stems, once again reversing their ration and
proceeds with the Telkon powder, producing the now familiar orange glow.
Sindatur's exasperated look returns and a gasp becomes audible. "And what
do you believe you have done wrong this time Boy? You must concentrate, you
have everything written down in front of you, do you not? Are you incapable
of reading your own writing?"
Dolpher stutters a bit and replies "Master, I believe I mixed up the dosage of
the flowers and the leaves and I have ground East-to-West"
"Tell me boy, why is it so hard to grasp the proper direction to pulverize and
mix? I have shown you only West-to-East to ensure you didn't become confused.
What will happen when I also show you East-to-West? What will happen when
there is an emergency, and you must mix these concoctions in a rapid manner in
an attempt to save lives?"
Now completely deflated, Dolpher returns once again to the task, slowly reading
his notes as he goes through the process. this time, once again being greeted
with the warm chocolate brown glow.
"Master, why are you so disappointed in being assigned me?"
"My young Apprentice, it's not so much you specifically, I am disappointed in.
You see, only Owls have the inherent ability for magic. The Opossums don't
have an inherent ability, but they live long enough to get beyond that and
become proficient. Only one other, a Walek, has ever shown a deep discipline
for the craft. He was the most adept Walek with magic, that I have ever met.
He was my Master, Delphia. He was a Mantis of fine stature, long tan hind
quarters, majestic antennae, and a mottled thorax. But even his magic wasn't
enough to save his life when the Felines came. The Felines are a race from
another quadrant, they posses Psionics. They came in the middle of the night,
Psionics blasting the oldest grove outside the village. The woods there, have
still to this day not recovered their full beauty 700 years later. One of your
Ancestors, the one you are named for, lost his life as well. Delphia challenged
their Leader, and he made one little mistake, which cost me my Master. He was
surrounded and his fire burst failed him. I watched him being torn to pieces.
I can however take comfort in the knowledge he took 3 Felines with him, but not
the one who took his life, General Xanxa. I served as Delphia’s Apprentice for
50 years. But, even if he hadn't been killed in the battle, I would've had him
for only a short time anyways. For a Walek lives only 150 years, as Humans do.
So, I choose to become close only to my own race, because it hurts to lose one
so young, to old age, and worse yet, to lose one younger to a lack of magical
prowess"
"But Master I already have my skill in the Warrior's Guild, I'm as skilled as
La'Sage, and half his age. I will never require relying only upon magic,
instead it will be an additional tool, to be used in conjunction with my
fighting skills."
"And that Boy, is the problem. It's merely an additional tool to you. Magic
requires total dedication for one of your race, simply to be adequate. I will
teach you as I've been instructed, but do not expect me to become fond of you.
I have shown you another powder, you now have 3 to study, 2 of which you are
already aware of the results to expect, tonight's Telkon powder should allow
you to levitate. DO NOT test the proficiency of the Telkon Powder before you
see me tomorrow evening. I have no more strength to continue our lesson
tonight, so please go for now, and visit Jonas tomorrow for the supplies you
require" Tears stream down Sindatur's face, soaking his feathers as he sees
Dolpher to the door.
Sindatur returns to his kitchen, cleaning up the supplies and returning them to
their proper places. Shutting the cabinet door, he waddles to his dining table,
head in his wings, and sobs until the first rays of morning light filter over
the mountains. Waddling off, Sindatur resigns himself to yet another day of
restless slumber.
After closing the door as Dolpher goes home from his first lesson, Sindatur
settles himself into his dining table and thinks back to his own days training
under his own Master. With a smile he remembers the reverence he held for
Dephia's discipline. He'd never seen a Walek before, nor since with Delphia's
command of their art. Running through the memories he glowed. Finally he
remembers the day Delphia was lost and his smiled diminished. Wiping the tears
from his cheeks and eyes, Sindatur waddles with his head hung low, and starts
towards his bed as the first rays of sunlight rise above the hilltop.
Dolpher wakes to the chirping of birds, in the first light of dawn, having just
retired at mid-night. Slipping into his battle leathers, he decides to face the
day with the words of Sindatur, Ortho, and of course Ox'Ana on his mind.
Dolpher sets out to the market place to purchase some leaves, twigs, flowers
and powders, for practicing the craft on his own, feeling the longing for
praise with every step he takes along the magical road.
Arriving at the Market Place, he finds the shop with the Runes upon the front
windows, immediately next door to the Fishery. Entering the shop, he looks
around in amazement of the sights in front of his eyes. Rows upon rows of
different colored leaves, powders, flowers, and stems. With a sinking feeling
in his stomach, Dolpher notices that several containers displaying identical
looking stems are labeled with a myriad of different names. Hoping for some
relief, he moves onto the flower section, and finds the same results, likewise
for the other ingredients he'd already become familiar with.
Just then, as the panic sets in, the Opossum who was behind the counter, had
made his way to Dolpher, and was displaying a jovial expression. "Anything I
can do for you", the Opossum belted out.
As Dolpher's heart skipped a beat, his ears turned red and sweat began to
drip down his face, he meekly replied, "I had my first lesson last night and
was trying to purchase ingredients to practice what I've learned, but, I didn't
realize that there are so many different things that look alike and I didn't
learn the names of the ingredients"
"I could surely help you, but, your Master would surely see this as undermining
your training. So, I can only sell you what you specifically ask for. I will,
however, warn you, that you don't want to "take a stab" at the ingredients.
Without the proper knowledge, you can make some very dangerous mistakes", he
happily pointed out. "Learn the names today and Wait until tomorrow to impress
your Master ".
"Thank you sir, I'm Dolpher and I'll return tomorrow"
"I'll look forward to it lad. I'm Jonas"
With a sluggish gait Dolpher headed to the door, opened it as the bell sounded,
and resigned himself to the wait. "I really need to find a way to win my
Master's respect", he thought to himself. Making his way across town and the
woods, he arrives home, and skirts into his room, for a day of contemplation.
The last beams of daylight begin to become apparent, and Dolpher lifts himself
up, knowing he must portray confidence for his Master. Arriving at the
Majestic Redwood tree housing Sindatur's bungalow, he knocks and forces a smile
onto his face.
Opening the door with an air of superiority Sindatur looks up his beak at his
apprentice, who's standing there with his heart in his hand. Stepping away
from the opening, Sindatur fluffs his tail feathers with his beak.
"Master, I didn't notice the names of the twigs, flowers and leaves, I
mistakenly thought remembering the color would be sufficient. I intended to
buy ingredients to practice what you've taught me. But Jonas the magic
shopkeeper wouldn't help me, because I didn't know the names of what I needed.
He said you would think he'd be interfering in my training. Can you please
tell me the names?"
"I'm impressed by your enthusiasm apprentice. I have already written down the
recipes for you for these first two. I was merely waiting for you to realize the
importance. In future, I expect you to record the proper identifications and
instructions for blending on your own."
Sindatur Goes to the glass cabinets And selects jars containing orange flowers,
Red leaves, and a blue powder labeled Telkon. Going through the exact same
ritual as with the Jurot powder, and is rewarded with the same Royal Blue
flash. "Now Apprentice, if you've written everything down properly, you should
be able to produce this powder."
Dolpher gathers the leaves and stems, once again reversing their ration and
proceeds with the Telkon powder, producing the now familiar orange glow.
Sindatur's exasperated look returns and a gasp becomes audible. "And what
do you believe you have done wrong this time Boy? You must concentrate, you
have everything written down in front of you, do you not? Are you incapable
of reading your own writing?"
Dolpher stutters a bit and replies "Master, I believe I mixed up the dosage of
the flowers and the leaves and I have ground East-to-West"
"Tell me boy, why is it so hard to grasp the proper direction to pulverize and
mix? I have shown you only West-to-East to ensure you didn't become confused.
What will happen when I also show you East-to-West? What will happen when
there is an emergency, and you must mix these concoctions in a rapid manner in
an attempt to save lives?"
Now completely deflated, Dolpher returns once again to the task, slowly reading
his notes as he goes through the process. this time, once again being greeted
with the warm chocolate brown glow.
"Master, why are you so disappointed in being assigned me?"
"My young Apprentice, it's not so much you specifically, I am disappointed in.
You see, only Owls have the inherent ability for magic. The Opossums don't
have an inherent ability, but they live long enough to get beyond that and
become proficient. Only one other, a Walek, has ever shown a deep discipline
for the craft. He was the most adept Walek with magic, that I have ever met.
He was my Master, Delphia. He was a Mantis of fine stature, long tan hind
quarters, majestic antennae, and a mottled thorax. But even his magic wasn't
enough to save his life when the Felines came. The Felines are a race from
another quadrant, they posses Psionics. They came in the middle of the night,
Psionics blasting the oldest grove outside the village. The woods there, have
still to this day not recovered their full beauty 700 years later. One of your
Ancestors, the one you are named for, lost his life as well. Delphia challenged
their Leader, and he made one little mistake, which cost me my Master. He was
surrounded and his fire burst failed him. I watched him being torn to pieces.
I can however take comfort in the knowledge he took 3 Felines with him, but not
the one who took his life, General Xanxa. I served as Delphia’s Apprentice for
50 years. But, even if he hadn't been killed in the battle, I would've had him
for only a short time anyways. For a Walek lives only 150 years, as Humans do.
So, I choose to become close only to my own race, because it hurts to lose one
so young, to old age, and worse yet, to lose one younger to a lack of magical
prowess"
"But Master I already have my skill in the Warrior's Guild, I'm as skilled as
La'Sage, and half his age. I will never require relying only upon magic,
instead it will be an additional tool, to be used in conjunction with my
fighting skills."
"And that Boy, is the problem. It's merely an additional tool to you. Magic
requires total dedication for one of your race, simply to be adequate. I will
teach you as I've been instructed, but do not expect me to become fond of you.
I have shown you another powder, you now have 3 to study, 2 of which you are
already aware of the results to expect, tonight's Telkon powder should allow
you to levitate. DO NOT test the proficiency of the Telkon Powder before you
see me tomorrow evening. I have no more strength to continue our lesson
tonight, so please go for now, and visit Jonas tomorrow for the supplies you
require" Tears stream down Sindatur's face, soaking his feathers as he sees
Dolpher to the door.
Sindatur returns to his kitchen, cleaning up the supplies and returning them to
their proper places. Shutting the cabinet door, he waddles to his dining table,
head in his wings, and sobs until the first rays of morning light filter over
the mountains. Waddling off, Sindatur resigns himself to yet another day of
restless slumber.
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 4: A NEW UNDERSTANDING
Dolpher awakes to the delectable aroma of Ox'Ana's cooking penetrating
his taste buds. Bolting upright, he darts to the closet and dons his leathers.
Passing through the living room, he passes Ortho's empty chair and heads for
the Kitchen. "Good morning Mom, Dad, " he calls out while pulling a chair away
from the table to settle into. "Mother you were wrong. Sindatur isn't
prejudiced after all. His Master was a Walek who was a great wizard. His name
was Delphia. He was killed in front of Sindatur and torn apart when the
Felines came. Sindatur and his Master fought with the Grandfather you named me
after. It really bothers him, he's afraid to be close to other races. He
loves us too much, and it hurts him to lose one. Because an Owl lives to be
over 3000 years old, and Humans and Waleks can only hope to come close to
reaching 200 years, he loses enough just to age. Seeing me as his apprentice,
frightens him, that it's a death sentence for me. I wish there was a way to
heal his heart."
"Dolpher, some scars never go away. All you can do is love and revere your new
Master and perform to the best of your abilities. If you matter enough to him,
he'll find a new affection for you that will enable him to cherish his memories
of Delphia", Ox'Ana advised.
"Ox'Ana, you train the boy in matters of the heart far too much. You'll make
him soft, a very dangerous prospect for a Warrior", Ortho objected.
"Ortho, be still. Dolpher is already a wonderful warrior. I venture to guess
he could best you some days. He's now entering a new Guild, of magic. Magic
is a craft where one must be in touch with their heart and their passion. Plus
he must help his new Master to overcome his grief, for Sindatur will be a far
better instructor for it. This can only be beneficial for our son"
"As always my beautiful, brilliant wife, you're correct. Pass me some more
pancakes please."
Turning to Dolpher, Ortho suggests, "Follow your mother's advice boy, she knows
passion. So, what are your plans for the day, son"
"I've made a recipe book with the powders that Sindatur has shown me. I'll go
to the Magic Shop and get the ingredients to make more on my own, so, I can
perfect them."
"Well, I'm still not so sure about this whole magic thing, but, you have
completed your fighting skills training, so I'm proud to see you dedicating
yourself to your new craft."
"Mom, these fruit pancakes and fried Dahli roots are delicious. Can I have
some more Citrus juice?"
Ox'Ana pours Dolpher's juice, and asks Ortho, "Can I get you some more Blue
Brew, Hon' "
"Thanks", Ortho answered, holding out his mug.
"May I be excused, mom? I want to get an early start shopping for my powder
ingredients"
"Of course dear. Don't bother with your dishes, I'll clear them, you go ahead
and get started."
Dolpher gets up from the table, turning his head as he leaves the kitchen,
"Goodbye Mom, Goodbye Day"
His parents chimed together, "Bye son, good luck"
Taking the familiar path through the town, passing the Leathers and Furriers,
he reaches the Fishery and finally the Magic Shop.
Opening the door, to the sound of the bell, Dolpher enters and greets Jonas,
who's sitting behind the counter, "Good Morning Jonas, I came back as promised"
"Good morning, my boy. Have you got the proper names for the ingredients
you'll be wanting?"
"Yes, I have. I've made a recipe book for what my Master has shown me. I need
ingredients to make these 3 powders", Dolpher stated as he handed over the
recipe book.
"Sindatur sent a messenger last night letting me know it was OK to gather the
ingredients together for you, so, I went ahead and put together your order an
hour ago. I needed only to verify you had taken the proper care to ensure you
knew what you were asking for. It's here, packaged and ready to go"
"Thank you Jonas," Dolpher beamed as he gathered up the burlap sack full of
jars with brightly colored contents.
Dolpher returned home, went straight to his room, emptying the burlap sack he
laid out the ingredients on the floor, and realized he had no storage facility.
Rushing back to town, Dolpher headed past the Magic Shop and went into the
Building Supplies Shop, and feverishly gathered the wood and bracketing he
needed for shelving and a workbench.
Grabbing a hammer and nails, Dolpher mounts shelving on the walls and erects a
workbench. After organizing the ingredients, Dolpher dedicates the rest of his
day to mixing, pulverizing and scooping.
Eventually throughout the day, he makes 5 attempts, for each of the 3 powders
he knows. Out of those 15 attempts he received flashes of orange twice; burnt
orange 5 times; the familiar chocolate brown, he associated with success, 7
times; and a final flash, revealed a new hue, that almost exactly matched the
deep dark brown color of his own eyes. Dolpher lit up, like a Christmas tree,
realizing, that just this once, his powder was perfect. Surely, even Sindatur
couldn't criticize these results. Carefully spooning this powder into burlaps
baggies, Dolpher excitedly ties blue tags, to the powder producing the perfect
color flash. Looking out his window, Dolpher notices the sun getting ready to
set and quickly throws together his pack with his powders book, and his most
promising powders from the day, discarding the failures.
Dolpher rushes out the door, and up the path towards Sindatur's abode.
Arriving at the last light of day, he finds Sindatur in the garden tending to
some herbs. "Good Evening Master, I made the Telkon Powder today. I came out
with the perfect colored flash when I mixed it. I've brought it with me."
"We shall see. I am collecting Herbs, some for cooking, others for Magical
purposes. Please be patient"
"Course Master. I'll prepare myself with my powder sacks."
Turning from his gardening, and putting down his basket, Sindatur snidely
addresses Dolpher, "So, let's see you demonstrate this fine powder of yours.
However, I caution you once again to remember, to concentrate on where you want
to go, keep control over the powder's impact.
Dolpher slams the satchel to the ground, and a wind whooshes beneath him,
pushing him ever skyward. First, 5, then 10 feet, and he smiles widely, 15
feet, and finally 20. Then, the panic sets in. He continues to rise, above
some of the treetops. At about 50-80 feet, Sindatur finally raises his wing,
and flutters it, with a quick incantation, allowing Dolpher to gracefully
return to the ground.
"So, my Apprentice, I see you still have too much blind confidence in your
nature, but, you still have no skills in using that confidence to strive for
what you want in the magical world. You mixed your powder well, but, I'm
highly disappointed in your display of it's usage. I've told you, this is not
basket-weaving, forget the nature you know. Open yourself, to the natural flow
of Magic. You may go now, return tomorrow evening, prepared for Physical
magic, retrieving things. I still expect you to gain control of your Telkon
Powder levitation effects."
Dolpher makes his way home, and slips quietly into his room, falling asleep
almost immediately.
Dolpher awakes to the delectable aroma of Ox'Ana's cooking penetrating
his taste buds. Bolting upright, he darts to the closet and dons his leathers.
Passing through the living room, he passes Ortho's empty chair and heads for
the Kitchen. "Good morning Mom, Dad, " he calls out while pulling a chair away
from the table to settle into. "Mother you were wrong. Sindatur isn't
prejudiced after all. His Master was a Walek who was a great wizard. His name
was Delphia. He was killed in front of Sindatur and torn apart when the
Felines came. Sindatur and his Master fought with the Grandfather you named me
after. It really bothers him, he's afraid to be close to other races. He
loves us too much, and it hurts him to lose one. Because an Owl lives to be
over 3000 years old, and Humans and Waleks can only hope to come close to
reaching 200 years, he loses enough just to age. Seeing me as his apprentice,
frightens him, that it's a death sentence for me. I wish there was a way to
heal his heart."
"Dolpher, some scars never go away. All you can do is love and revere your new
Master and perform to the best of your abilities. If you matter enough to him,
he'll find a new affection for you that will enable him to cherish his memories
of Delphia", Ox'Ana advised.
"Ox'Ana, you train the boy in matters of the heart far too much. You'll make
him soft, a very dangerous prospect for a Warrior", Ortho objected.
"Ortho, be still. Dolpher is already a wonderful warrior. I venture to guess
he could best you some days. He's now entering a new Guild, of magic. Magic
is a craft where one must be in touch with their heart and their passion. Plus
he must help his new Master to overcome his grief, for Sindatur will be a far
better instructor for it. This can only be beneficial for our son"
"As always my beautiful, brilliant wife, you're correct. Pass me some more
pancakes please."
Turning to Dolpher, Ortho suggests, "Follow your mother's advice boy, she knows
passion. So, what are your plans for the day, son"
"I've made a recipe book with the powders that Sindatur has shown me. I'll go
to the Magic Shop and get the ingredients to make more on my own, so, I can
perfect them."
"Well, I'm still not so sure about this whole magic thing, but, you have
completed your fighting skills training, so I'm proud to see you dedicating
yourself to your new craft."
"Mom, these fruit pancakes and fried Dahli roots are delicious. Can I have
some more Citrus juice?"
Ox'Ana pours Dolpher's juice, and asks Ortho, "Can I get you some more Blue
Brew, Hon' "
"Thanks", Ortho answered, holding out his mug.
"May I be excused, mom? I want to get an early start shopping for my powder
ingredients"
"Of course dear. Don't bother with your dishes, I'll clear them, you go ahead
and get started."
Dolpher gets up from the table, turning his head as he leaves the kitchen,
"Goodbye Mom, Goodbye Day"
His parents chimed together, "Bye son, good luck"
Taking the familiar path through the town, passing the Leathers and Furriers,
he reaches the Fishery and finally the Magic Shop.
Opening the door, to the sound of the bell, Dolpher enters and greets Jonas,
who's sitting behind the counter, "Good Morning Jonas, I came back as promised"
"Good morning, my boy. Have you got the proper names for the ingredients
you'll be wanting?"
"Yes, I have. I've made a recipe book for what my Master has shown me. I need
ingredients to make these 3 powders", Dolpher stated as he handed over the
recipe book.
"Sindatur sent a messenger last night letting me know it was OK to gather the
ingredients together for you, so, I went ahead and put together your order an
hour ago. I needed only to verify you had taken the proper care to ensure you
knew what you were asking for. It's here, packaged and ready to go"
"Thank you Jonas," Dolpher beamed as he gathered up the burlap sack full of
jars with brightly colored contents.
Dolpher returned home, went straight to his room, emptying the burlap sack he
laid out the ingredients on the floor, and realized he had no storage facility.
Rushing back to town, Dolpher headed past the Magic Shop and went into the
Building Supplies Shop, and feverishly gathered the wood and bracketing he
needed for shelving and a workbench.
Grabbing a hammer and nails, Dolpher mounts shelving on the walls and erects a
workbench. After organizing the ingredients, Dolpher dedicates the rest of his
day to mixing, pulverizing and scooping.
Eventually throughout the day, he makes 5 attempts, for each of the 3 powders
he knows. Out of those 15 attempts he received flashes of orange twice; burnt
orange 5 times; the familiar chocolate brown, he associated with success, 7
times; and a final flash, revealed a new hue, that almost exactly matched the
deep dark brown color of his own eyes. Dolpher lit up, like a Christmas tree,
realizing, that just this once, his powder was perfect. Surely, even Sindatur
couldn't criticize these results. Carefully spooning this powder into burlaps
baggies, Dolpher excitedly ties blue tags, to the powder producing the perfect
color flash. Looking out his window, Dolpher notices the sun getting ready to
set and quickly throws together his pack with his powders book, and his most
promising powders from the day, discarding the failures.
Dolpher rushes out the door, and up the path towards Sindatur's abode.
Arriving at the last light of day, he finds Sindatur in the garden tending to
some herbs. "Good Evening Master, I made the Telkon Powder today. I came out
with the perfect colored flash when I mixed it. I've brought it with me."
"We shall see. I am collecting Herbs, some for cooking, others for Magical
purposes. Please be patient"
"Course Master. I'll prepare myself with my powder sacks."
Turning from his gardening, and putting down his basket, Sindatur snidely
addresses Dolpher, "So, let's see you demonstrate this fine powder of yours.
However, I caution you once again to remember, to concentrate on where you want
to go, keep control over the powder's impact.
Dolpher slams the satchel to the ground, and a wind whooshes beneath him,
pushing him ever skyward. First, 5, then 10 feet, and he smiles widely, 15
feet, and finally 20. Then, the panic sets in. He continues to rise, above
some of the treetops. At about 50-80 feet, Sindatur finally raises his wing,
and flutters it, with a quick incantation, allowing Dolpher to gracefully
return to the ground.
"So, my Apprentice, I see you still have too much blind confidence in your
nature, but, you still have no skills in using that confidence to strive for
what you want in the magical world. You mixed your powder well, but, I'm
highly disappointed in your display of it's usage. I've told you, this is not
basket-weaving, forget the nature you know. Open yourself, to the natural flow
of Magic. You may go now, return tomorrow evening, prepared for Physical
magic, retrieving things. I still expect you to gain control of your Telkon
Powder levitation effects."
Dolpher makes his way home, and slips quietly into his room, falling asleep
almost immediately.
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 5: AN INTRODUCTION TO “REAL MAGIC”
Dolpher walks into the kitchen for breakfast, strains to make a smile and pulls
his chair out. The smells from the plate in front of him, draw a real smile,
as he looks longingly at the Potato Pancakes and Rika Root. Letting out an
utterance of pleasure, he hears his father asking, "So, how did last night go,
you were too drained last night to tell us. Was the Old Buzzard pleased for a
change?"
"Well, yes and no. He was pleased I had the ambition and drive to get all the
ingredients and spend the practicing. He was even impressed to hear the color
of the reflux was the proper shade of brown. However, when I used the Telkon
Powder I didn't heed his warning to proceed with caution. I got cocky and
levitated far too high and out of control. Sindatur had to counter the effects
for me, and he wasn't at all pleased. I didn't realize I had to learn to
control it. I do at least have several more satchels of the 'perfect' blend to
practice controlling it with."
"Well Dolpher, shouldn't Master Sindatur have warned you specifically," Ox'Ana
asked?
"Well, he did tell me to be grounded, and to concentrate on where I wanted to
go and how high. I just didn't understand why it was important," Dolpher
responded.
"Well, you did well. It couldn't have gone so wrong, if you hadn't done an
incredible job mixing the powder", Ox'Ana comforted.
"Ox'Ana, what're you doing? He messed up again", Ortho complained!
Cutting Ortho off, Ox'Ana elbowed him, and gave him a look that told him
continuing was the absolute worst thing he could do. "Pay no attention to your
Father, Dolpher. He knows nothing of magic, nor what is a good job nor an
important learning experience, that needs to be gone through"
"Thanks Mom", Dolpher replied, as he shoveled another forkful into his mouth.
"So, dear, what's Master Sindatur teaching you tonight? More powders or some
physical Magic", Ox'Ana enquired?
"He says he'll be teaching me to retrieve things tonight"
Taking the last bite from his plate, Dolpher gets up from the table, and rinses
his plate. "I'm going to my room now, to practice controlling the levitation."
In the confined space of his bedroom, Dolpher had no worries of floating off or
floating too high. This made it easier to take chances and concentrate harder.
When evening approached Dolpher bid good evening to his parents and walked
across the woods to Sindatur's burrow. Arriving at the heavy wooden door, he
knocked apprehensively.
Sindatur opened the door with a scowl and waved Dolpher in, taking immediately
to preening his right thigh feathers. Sliding his beak down his tail feathers
Sindatur looks up at Dolpher and says, "Tonight, you will begin to learn to
retrieve things, using your mind to bring them to you. OBSERVE!" Sindatur
points at a single sheet of parchment sitting on the Dining table. Sindatur
gets the most intense look in his eyes that Dolpher has ever seen, and raises
his left wing, as the sheet of parchment rises. Rippling his left wing, the
sheet of parchment floats through the Living room towards him. "Now Boy, look
at the parchment on the Sitting table. Look at it with every fiber of your
Being. Look inside yourself, and grab your deepest desire. Now, make that
desire happen, make the parchment rise."
Dolpher stares intently at the parchment in front of him, stretching his
fingers towards it. His hand shakes and his hair gets wets, as sweat begins
to bead up in his hairline. Sweat pouring profusely down his cheeks, the
parchment jerks, but nothing more.
"You need to look deeper Boy. Dig down to your very deepest desire and grab
that feeling. You have to not only know you can do it, but, you have to want it
more than anything else"
Attempt #2, with a look in his eyes of such intensity it created the beginnings
of a migraine, only succeeded in making Dolpher sweat faster. Attempt #3 and 4
were no different.
"NO BOY", Sindatur shouted in frustration, picking at his right thigh feathers
and gaining his composure he continued, softly, "You have to want it more than
anything. How many times must I tell you? Look deeper. Magic is not like
basket weaving, or your Warrior skills. You don't simply do what comes to you
naturally. Every occasion you perform magic, must be with intensity, from the
bottom of your heart. Every instance requires your total dedication to surpass
everything you've ever done."
Attempt #5, once again was no different. On attempt #6, Dolpher finally
succeeded in having enough influence on the sheet of parchment, to knock it off
the edge of the sitting room table. Dolpher now, completely drenched to the
bone, clothes, hair and all, was experiencing a splitting headache.
"You have tried hard enough for tonight, I have no more energy for you. You may
go, and see me in two Sunset's time. Tomorrow, I want you to continue digging
into yourself and trying to move things. When I see you again, we will move
along to a cup."
Closing the door as Dolpher exits, Sindatur slinks into the Kitchen, picking at
his tail feathers. His thoughts dwell to Dolpher's inability to comprehend the
intricacies of Magic. He sits, preening his left wing, envisioning a Feline
invasion. Some of the oldest, most majestic trees, being ripped up by their
roots with Feline Psionics. Others being ravaged by fire from their flaming
arrows. In the center of a circle of 7 Felines, a Walek stands, focusing on
making a fire ring. The air ripples, and the flames sprout up, just in front of
the Feline circle, General Xanxa, front and center. Reaching out with his
Psionics, the General grabs a rock, 6" in diameter and flings it in the Walek’s
direction. The Walek is hit and crumbles to the ground, the ring of fire
fizzles. Standing up, the Walek morphs into Dolpher in Sindatur's mind.
Sindatur sees Dolpher, being torn, limb, from limb, with a Feline vengeance.
Coming back to reality, Sindatur wipes away the tears with his right wing.
Once the tears are cleared from his eyes, Sindatur sees the first rays of light
poking through his kitchen window. Settling into his bed, Sindatur pulls the
covers to his breast, and dozes off. The rest of the day gives him the
restless sleep of tossing and turning.
Dolpher treks across the forest, feeling lower than ever. Barely looking at the trees he passed. Slinking through the front door, he stops at Ortho‘s chair and says “goodnight.“
Ortho asks, “So, how did tonight go?”
“I really don’t want to go into it, I can’t do magic. I’m going to bed now, I have a horrible headache. Goodnight Mom”
Dolpher wakes up, throws on his leathers and trudges out to the kitchen, grumbling “Good morning, Mom…Dad.
Ox‘Ana serves him a plate and advises "Dolpher, remember your first Scimitar. Remember how bad you wanted it. Remember how much you wanted it. Remember how you knew it would make you the best Warrior around. Those are only the primary thoughts required for Magic. You must also remember how you knew you could do anything, when you felt it in your hand, the way the jewels made you feel important, and invincible. That's still not enough, though. You must also envision all the things you meant to do with it. Once you train your mind to appreciate all those things, in a
single thought, you need to also mix in your desire to do those things, and that's how magic is made."
"Ox'Ana!!! What kind of psycho-babble is that", Ortho questioned? "How can you
expect Dolpher to understand such nonsensical gibberish?"
"And that, Dear One is why you are a Warrior, and not a Wizard".
"Thanks Mom, My Master tried to explain that to me too, but I only barely
understand more than Dad does"
Dolpher excuses himself from the table and rinses his plate. Heading back to
his room he bids his parents good day. Closing the door behind him he grabs
his satchels of Telkon Powder and sets straight to work. Smashing one to the
ground, he floats to the ceiling and bangs his head on it. Straining his mind,
Dolpher takes Ox'Ana's words to heart. after two embarrassing attempts, he
finally "gets it". At last he becomes one with the floating. Performing spins
and kicks he removes his scimitar from it's holster, jabbing and thrusting it.
Turning flips in mid-air. With a grin on his face, and joy in his heart, he
lands softly on the floor and gazes intently at the piece of parchment on his
workbench. Wiggling his fingers, he reaches for it, with the deepest recesses
of his mind Sweat pours down his face and a headache begins, with no affect
on the parchment. Attempt after attempt, produces failure after failure,
increasing the pain in his head with each one. By the eighth attempt the pain
becomes almost unbearable, his only reward a slight quivering of the parchment.
Attempts 9-12 change nothing. The pain was now so intense, he didn't have the
strength to try again. Desperately needing a shower and rest, he sheds his
leathers and relaxes under the warm massage of the shower. The strain finally
flows through his body and down the drain. By the time Dolpher returns to his
room the sun is low enough in the sky that he needs to light his lantern. Ready
for another attempt, Dolpher wonders if he might have more success with
something heavier. Looking around the room, he sees the cup on the edge of the
workbench and thinks how impressed Sindatur would be if he showed up tomorrow
with the ability to retrieve a cup. Gazing intently, he focuses his mind and
reaches out to it. wiggling his fingers he tries as hard as he can to move it,
but, nothing changes, including the pouring sweat and pain in his head. By the
fifth attempt he causes the cup to shake. A sixth attempt rewards him with a
movement of about a quarter inch. A seventh, slides it another quarter inch,
toppling it to the floor with a crash, shattering it. Completely drained,
Dolpher picks up the pieces and climbs into bed, without removing his leathers,
drifting off to sleep within minutes.
Dolpher walks into the kitchen for breakfast, strains to make a smile and pulls
his chair out. The smells from the plate in front of him, draw a real smile,
as he looks longingly at the Potato Pancakes and Rika Root. Letting out an
utterance of pleasure, he hears his father asking, "So, how did last night go,
you were too drained last night to tell us. Was the Old Buzzard pleased for a
change?"
"Well, yes and no. He was pleased I had the ambition and drive to get all the
ingredients and spend the practicing. He was even impressed to hear the color
of the reflux was the proper shade of brown. However, when I used the Telkon
Powder I didn't heed his warning to proceed with caution. I got cocky and
levitated far too high and out of control. Sindatur had to counter the effects
for me, and he wasn't at all pleased. I didn't realize I had to learn to
control it. I do at least have several more satchels of the 'perfect' blend to
practice controlling it with."
"Well Dolpher, shouldn't Master Sindatur have warned you specifically," Ox'Ana
asked?
"Well, he did tell me to be grounded, and to concentrate on where I wanted to
go and how high. I just didn't understand why it was important," Dolpher
responded.
"Well, you did well. It couldn't have gone so wrong, if you hadn't done an
incredible job mixing the powder", Ox'Ana comforted.
"Ox'Ana, what're you doing? He messed up again", Ortho complained!
Cutting Ortho off, Ox'Ana elbowed him, and gave him a look that told him
continuing was the absolute worst thing he could do. "Pay no attention to your
Father, Dolpher. He knows nothing of magic, nor what is a good job nor an
important learning experience, that needs to be gone through"
"Thanks Mom", Dolpher replied, as he shoveled another forkful into his mouth.
"So, dear, what's Master Sindatur teaching you tonight? More powders or some
physical Magic", Ox'Ana enquired?
"He says he'll be teaching me to retrieve things tonight"
Taking the last bite from his plate, Dolpher gets up from the table, and rinses
his plate. "I'm going to my room now, to practice controlling the levitation."
In the confined space of his bedroom, Dolpher had no worries of floating off or
floating too high. This made it easier to take chances and concentrate harder.
When evening approached Dolpher bid good evening to his parents and walked
across the woods to Sindatur's burrow. Arriving at the heavy wooden door, he
knocked apprehensively.
Sindatur opened the door with a scowl and waved Dolpher in, taking immediately
to preening his right thigh feathers. Sliding his beak down his tail feathers
Sindatur looks up at Dolpher and says, "Tonight, you will begin to learn to
retrieve things, using your mind to bring them to you. OBSERVE!" Sindatur
points at a single sheet of parchment sitting on the Dining table. Sindatur
gets the most intense look in his eyes that Dolpher has ever seen, and raises
his left wing, as the sheet of parchment rises. Rippling his left wing, the
sheet of parchment floats through the Living room towards him. "Now Boy, look
at the parchment on the Sitting table. Look at it with every fiber of your
Being. Look inside yourself, and grab your deepest desire. Now, make that
desire happen, make the parchment rise."
Dolpher stares intently at the parchment in front of him, stretching his
fingers towards it. His hand shakes and his hair gets wets, as sweat begins
to bead up in his hairline. Sweat pouring profusely down his cheeks, the
parchment jerks, but nothing more.
"You need to look deeper Boy. Dig down to your very deepest desire and grab
that feeling. You have to not only know you can do it, but, you have to want it
more than anything else"
Attempt #2, with a look in his eyes of such intensity it created the beginnings
of a migraine, only succeeded in making Dolpher sweat faster. Attempt #3 and 4
were no different.
"NO BOY", Sindatur shouted in frustration, picking at his right thigh feathers
and gaining his composure he continued, softly, "You have to want it more than
anything. How many times must I tell you? Look deeper. Magic is not like
basket weaving, or your Warrior skills. You don't simply do what comes to you
naturally. Every occasion you perform magic, must be with intensity, from the
bottom of your heart. Every instance requires your total dedication to surpass
everything you've ever done."
Attempt #5, once again was no different. On attempt #6, Dolpher finally
succeeded in having enough influence on the sheet of parchment, to knock it off
the edge of the sitting room table. Dolpher now, completely drenched to the
bone, clothes, hair and all, was experiencing a splitting headache.
"You have tried hard enough for tonight, I have no more energy for you. You may
go, and see me in two Sunset's time. Tomorrow, I want you to continue digging
into yourself and trying to move things. When I see you again, we will move
along to a cup."
Closing the door as Dolpher exits, Sindatur slinks into the Kitchen, picking at
his tail feathers. His thoughts dwell to Dolpher's inability to comprehend the
intricacies of Magic. He sits, preening his left wing, envisioning a Feline
invasion. Some of the oldest, most majestic trees, being ripped up by their
roots with Feline Psionics. Others being ravaged by fire from their flaming
arrows. In the center of a circle of 7 Felines, a Walek stands, focusing on
making a fire ring. The air ripples, and the flames sprout up, just in front of
the Feline circle, General Xanxa, front and center. Reaching out with his
Psionics, the General grabs a rock, 6" in diameter and flings it in the Walek’s
direction. The Walek is hit and crumbles to the ground, the ring of fire
fizzles. Standing up, the Walek morphs into Dolpher in Sindatur's mind.
Sindatur sees Dolpher, being torn, limb, from limb, with a Feline vengeance.
Coming back to reality, Sindatur wipes away the tears with his right wing.
Once the tears are cleared from his eyes, Sindatur sees the first rays of light
poking through his kitchen window. Settling into his bed, Sindatur pulls the
covers to his breast, and dozes off. The rest of the day gives him the
restless sleep of tossing and turning.
Dolpher treks across the forest, feeling lower than ever. Barely looking at the trees he passed. Slinking through the front door, he stops at Ortho‘s chair and says “goodnight.“
Ortho asks, “So, how did tonight go?”
“I really don’t want to go into it, I can’t do magic. I’m going to bed now, I have a horrible headache. Goodnight Mom”
Dolpher wakes up, throws on his leathers and trudges out to the kitchen, grumbling “Good morning, Mom…Dad.
Ox‘Ana serves him a plate and advises "Dolpher, remember your first Scimitar. Remember how bad you wanted it. Remember how much you wanted it. Remember how you knew it would make you the best Warrior around. Those are only the primary thoughts required for Magic. You must also remember how you knew you could do anything, when you felt it in your hand, the way the jewels made you feel important, and invincible. That's still not enough, though. You must also envision all the things you meant to do with it. Once you train your mind to appreciate all those things, in a
single thought, you need to also mix in your desire to do those things, and that's how magic is made."
"Ox'Ana!!! What kind of psycho-babble is that", Ortho questioned? "How can you
expect Dolpher to understand such nonsensical gibberish?"
"And that, Dear One is why you are a Warrior, and not a Wizard".
"Thanks Mom, My Master tried to explain that to me too, but I only barely
understand more than Dad does"
Dolpher excuses himself from the table and rinses his plate. Heading back to
his room he bids his parents good day. Closing the door behind him he grabs
his satchels of Telkon Powder and sets straight to work. Smashing one to the
ground, he floats to the ceiling and bangs his head on it. Straining his mind,
Dolpher takes Ox'Ana's words to heart. after two embarrassing attempts, he
finally "gets it". At last he becomes one with the floating. Performing spins
and kicks he removes his scimitar from it's holster, jabbing and thrusting it.
Turning flips in mid-air. With a grin on his face, and joy in his heart, he
lands softly on the floor and gazes intently at the piece of parchment on his
workbench. Wiggling his fingers, he reaches for it, with the deepest recesses
of his mind Sweat pours down his face and a headache begins, with no affect
on the parchment. Attempt after attempt, produces failure after failure,
increasing the pain in his head with each one. By the eighth attempt the pain
becomes almost unbearable, his only reward a slight quivering of the parchment.
Attempts 9-12 change nothing. The pain was now so intense, he didn't have the
strength to try again. Desperately needing a shower and rest, he sheds his
leathers and relaxes under the warm massage of the shower. The strain finally
flows through his body and down the drain. By the time Dolpher returns to his
room the sun is low enough in the sky that he needs to light his lantern. Ready
for another attempt, Dolpher wonders if he might have more success with
something heavier. Looking around the room, he sees the cup on the edge of the
workbench and thinks how impressed Sindatur would be if he showed up tomorrow
with the ability to retrieve a cup. Gazing intently, he focuses his mind and
reaches out to it. wiggling his fingers he tries as hard as he can to move it,
but, nothing changes, including the pouring sweat and pain in his head. By the
fifth attempt he causes the cup to shake. A sixth attempt rewards him with a
movement of about a quarter inch. A seventh, slides it another quarter inch,
toppling it to the floor with a crash, shattering it. Completely drained,
Dolpher picks up the pieces and climbs into bed, without removing his leathers,
drifting off to sleep within minutes.
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 6 - MEMORIES and FUTILITIES
Sindatur makes the trek from the Village shops, across the woods, laden with
supplies. Arriving home, he fumbles with the door handle and his packages.
Finally getting the door open, he bumbles into the kitchen. As he proceeds to
put the supplies away on the pantry shelves, he thinks back to Dolpher's lesson
the previous night. Six attempts at retrieving a sheet of parchment and nothing
accomplished but knocking it to the floor. "This is hopeless", he thought.
"What is the purpose? He doesn't understand. I can teach him nothing of
magic, but envy. What of making fireballs or fire rings? Or unbreaking things.
With his warrior's skills, he surely could use the ability to retrieve a weapon
from afar, or even to take one from an enemy's hand. I'll teach in vain and
he'll learn nothing. Then believing he has skills that he doesn't, he'll do
something stupid. Something that will result in his fall, because he believed
he had command over the skill needed. What must I do? I can't be responsible
for that kind of failure. I can't bear the burden if his skills fail in battle."
Thinking back to Delphia's final battle, Delphia in that circle. The Siamese,
Gen. Xanxa, grinning as he grabs that rock with his Psionics, and lobs it
towards Delphia. Delphia crumbled under the impact and his fire ring fizzled,
his antennae broken. As the Felines advance on the light skinned Mantis,
Sindatur sees himself, in his memory, frozen in fear, on the sidelines unable to do a thing. Once again, as Delphia stumbles back onto his feet, he morphs into Dolpher,
and the Felines rip at him. Gen Xanxa taking the right arm, the 3 survivors of
the circle, who weren't killed by the fire ring, taking his other 3 limbs.
Finally, the General removes the head, holding it up as a trophy, kicking the trunk aside with a grin.
Snapping back to reality, Sindatur grabs a towel from the counter, with his
mind. Dabbing away the wetness from the tears and sweat, he notices the sun beginning
to poke up over the mountain. Head hanging on his shoulders, he slinked to his
room. Settling into his bed, Sindatur pulls the blanket to his breast, and
sobs himself to sleep, tossing and turning all morning long.
Dolpher awakes to the familiar smell of Ox'Ana's coking. Getting out of bed he
finds he's still wearing his leathers from the night before. Dragging himself
into the kitchen, he pulls his chair out and sleepily says, "Good Morning"
"Good Morning", his parents chime together
"So, how did yesterday go", Ox'Ana asked?
"I have complete control over levitation now. Not so much with retrieving
though. I tried over and over to retrieve a piece of parchment, and then even
a cup. I got nothing for my efforts but a headache, drenched with sweat and a
broken cup. at one point I was able to shake the parchment, and even moved it
a quarter inch twice, so it eventually fell to the floor. I can't do this"
"You're doing fine son. Magic will come slowly to you, but it will come",
comforted Ox'Ana.
Ortho starts "OX‘ANA..." and is instantly cut off by an icy stare in her eyes.
Starting again more calmly Ortho says, "Listen to your mother. I'm proud of you for
mastering levitation. It would be a great weapon in the arsenal of any
Warrior. That retrieving thing could come in handy too. Imagine taking an
opponent's weapon from his hand, without even touching him. Not sure it's
entirely honorable though."
"A real battle doesn't play by rules or honor, My Love. Taking a weapon from
an enemy is no less honorable than being killed by it"
"Your wisdom exceeds your years, my beautiful wife. We've been at peace so
long, I sometimes forget to see my opponents as enemies. It's hard to remember
honor is merely a dueling rule."
Dolpher shovels the last bite into his mouth and excuses himself. He rinses
his plate, kisses his mother on the head, pats Ortho on the back and bids them,
"Good day"
"Dolpher", Ox'Ana calls out "I'm bringing you in a sandwich for lunch, and you
will eat it. Since you began your Apprenticeship with Master Sindatur, you've
eaten only Breakfast. I won't stand for that any longer."
"Thanks Mom", Dolpher called back.
Returning to his room, his retrieving practice bears the same fruit.
Sindatur awoke midday to the same haunting images that plague his thoughts
when they're not occupied. Dragging himself into the kitchen, he conjures a
cup of blue brew. With an intense look towards the mail slot, he retrieves the
morning parchment and spends the afternoon puttering about his bungalow. Hour after hour he remembers…and tears well up. Excessively fluffing his breast and thigh feathers, smoothing his wings and tail feathers. With his pulse racing, he snaps out of his memory lock, wipes his sweat and tears and slides on his gardening apron. While picking some blue herbs, Sindatur turns to the sound of Dolpher’s footsteps. Tucking his satchels into his apron, he goes immediately into “Master Mode”. “Boy, go into the Kitchen and wait for me.”
Dolpher settles into a chair, folding his fingers he waits patiently.
Minutes later Sindatur crosses the room and grabs a cup. He places the cup on the table and instructs Dolpher, “Grab the cup with your mind. Pull it through the air to yourself.”
Three failed attempts and the headaches begin, his hair wet from the mental strain. His fourth attempt, blood drips from his nose and a shout from his lips moves the cup a full inch. Falling to the floor, the cup shatters with a crash.
Sindatur waves a wing, Royal Blue eyes focused on the broken pieces. With a Whooshing sound, the pieces re-assemble. An extra wave of his wing and the cup is placed back up on the table. “Apprentice, I need to push you to your limits, and beyond tonight. Do you have Jurot powder? You will need the restorative effects of the Glimmer effect to get through it. USE IT NOW BOY, we have much to accomplish.”
Dolpher reaches into his belts, and pulls out a satchel with a pink tag. Slamming it to the ground, every hair falls into place, the sweat dries and the 5 O’clock shadow disappears. Best of all, no banging in his head, nor overbearing weight on his shoulders. Free of pain in his head, a fifth attempt accomplishes nothing.
“ENOUGH!! We’ll move onto fire now.” Sindatur leads Dolpher out to the brook. “ABSORB YOUNG ONE!!” With a steely Royal Blue gaze, Sindatur stared into his own wing, as a fireball three inches in diameter formed. “Pull the energy from the air. Concentrate on fire” Lobbing the fireball into the stream, Sindatur puts some distance between himself and Dolpher and stares straight ahead. Pulling his wings above his head, and with a snap, back down to the ground, around his body and up behind him. A 10 foot wide circle of 6 foot tall flames forming in the trail of his wing movements, completely encircling him. Reversing the motion, extinguishes the blaze. “Now Apprentice do as I have done. Pull the energy from the elements and create fire”
Attempt after attempt rewards Dolpher with nothing but headaches and sweat, and on a rare occasions, a spark. Another satchel of Jurot powder refreshes him for more attempts, none of which become successes.
Finally Sindatur announces the end of the lesson with frustration and sends Dolpher home.
Both of them repeating their midnight rituals. Dolpher trudging home, and stealing into his home, without a word aside from the obligatory “Good night” to his parents. Sindatur, moping and remembering until the first light of day.
Sindatur makes the trek from the Village shops, across the woods, laden with
supplies. Arriving home, he fumbles with the door handle and his packages.
Finally getting the door open, he bumbles into the kitchen. As he proceeds to
put the supplies away on the pantry shelves, he thinks back to Dolpher's lesson
the previous night. Six attempts at retrieving a sheet of parchment and nothing
accomplished but knocking it to the floor. "This is hopeless", he thought.
"What is the purpose? He doesn't understand. I can teach him nothing of
magic, but envy. What of making fireballs or fire rings? Or unbreaking things.
With his warrior's skills, he surely could use the ability to retrieve a weapon
from afar, or even to take one from an enemy's hand. I'll teach in vain and
he'll learn nothing. Then believing he has skills that he doesn't, he'll do
something stupid. Something that will result in his fall, because he believed
he had command over the skill needed. What must I do? I can't be responsible
for that kind of failure. I can't bear the burden if his skills fail in battle."
Thinking back to Delphia's final battle, Delphia in that circle. The Siamese,
Gen. Xanxa, grinning as he grabs that rock with his Psionics, and lobs it
towards Delphia. Delphia crumbled under the impact and his fire ring fizzled,
his antennae broken. As the Felines advance on the light skinned Mantis,
Sindatur sees himself, in his memory, frozen in fear, on the sidelines unable to do a thing. Once again, as Delphia stumbles back onto his feet, he morphs into Dolpher,
and the Felines rip at him. Gen Xanxa taking the right arm, the 3 survivors of
the circle, who weren't killed by the fire ring, taking his other 3 limbs.
Finally, the General removes the head, holding it up as a trophy, kicking the trunk aside with a grin.
Snapping back to reality, Sindatur grabs a towel from the counter, with his
mind. Dabbing away the wetness from the tears and sweat, he notices the sun beginning
to poke up over the mountain. Head hanging on his shoulders, he slinked to his
room. Settling into his bed, Sindatur pulls the blanket to his breast, and
sobs himself to sleep, tossing and turning all morning long.
Dolpher awakes to the familiar smell of Ox'Ana's coking. Getting out of bed he
finds he's still wearing his leathers from the night before. Dragging himself
into the kitchen, he pulls his chair out and sleepily says, "Good Morning"
"Good Morning", his parents chime together
"So, how did yesterday go", Ox'Ana asked?
"I have complete control over levitation now. Not so much with retrieving
though. I tried over and over to retrieve a piece of parchment, and then even
a cup. I got nothing for my efforts but a headache, drenched with sweat and a
broken cup. at one point I was able to shake the parchment, and even moved it
a quarter inch twice, so it eventually fell to the floor. I can't do this"
"You're doing fine son. Magic will come slowly to you, but it will come",
comforted Ox'Ana.
Ortho starts "OX‘ANA..." and is instantly cut off by an icy stare in her eyes.
Starting again more calmly Ortho says, "Listen to your mother. I'm proud of you for
mastering levitation. It would be a great weapon in the arsenal of any
Warrior. That retrieving thing could come in handy too. Imagine taking an
opponent's weapon from his hand, without even touching him. Not sure it's
entirely honorable though."
"A real battle doesn't play by rules or honor, My Love. Taking a weapon from
an enemy is no less honorable than being killed by it"
"Your wisdom exceeds your years, my beautiful wife. We've been at peace so
long, I sometimes forget to see my opponents as enemies. It's hard to remember
honor is merely a dueling rule."
Dolpher shovels the last bite into his mouth and excuses himself. He rinses
his plate, kisses his mother on the head, pats Ortho on the back and bids them,
"Good day"
"Dolpher", Ox'Ana calls out "I'm bringing you in a sandwich for lunch, and you
will eat it. Since you began your Apprenticeship with Master Sindatur, you've
eaten only Breakfast. I won't stand for that any longer."
"Thanks Mom", Dolpher called back.
Returning to his room, his retrieving practice bears the same fruit.
Sindatur awoke midday to the same haunting images that plague his thoughts
when they're not occupied. Dragging himself into the kitchen, he conjures a
cup of blue brew. With an intense look towards the mail slot, he retrieves the
morning parchment and spends the afternoon puttering about his bungalow. Hour after hour he remembers…and tears well up. Excessively fluffing his breast and thigh feathers, smoothing his wings and tail feathers. With his pulse racing, he snaps out of his memory lock, wipes his sweat and tears and slides on his gardening apron. While picking some blue herbs, Sindatur turns to the sound of Dolpher’s footsteps. Tucking his satchels into his apron, he goes immediately into “Master Mode”. “Boy, go into the Kitchen and wait for me.”
Dolpher settles into a chair, folding his fingers he waits patiently.
Minutes later Sindatur crosses the room and grabs a cup. He places the cup on the table and instructs Dolpher, “Grab the cup with your mind. Pull it through the air to yourself.”
Three failed attempts and the headaches begin, his hair wet from the mental strain. His fourth attempt, blood drips from his nose and a shout from his lips moves the cup a full inch. Falling to the floor, the cup shatters with a crash.
Sindatur waves a wing, Royal Blue eyes focused on the broken pieces. With a Whooshing sound, the pieces re-assemble. An extra wave of his wing and the cup is placed back up on the table. “Apprentice, I need to push you to your limits, and beyond tonight. Do you have Jurot powder? You will need the restorative effects of the Glimmer effect to get through it. USE IT NOW BOY, we have much to accomplish.”
Dolpher reaches into his belts, and pulls out a satchel with a pink tag. Slamming it to the ground, every hair falls into place, the sweat dries and the 5 O’clock shadow disappears. Best of all, no banging in his head, nor overbearing weight on his shoulders. Free of pain in his head, a fifth attempt accomplishes nothing.
“ENOUGH!! We’ll move onto fire now.” Sindatur leads Dolpher out to the brook. “ABSORB YOUNG ONE!!” With a steely Royal Blue gaze, Sindatur stared into his own wing, as a fireball three inches in diameter formed. “Pull the energy from the air. Concentrate on fire” Lobbing the fireball into the stream, Sindatur puts some distance between himself and Dolpher and stares straight ahead. Pulling his wings above his head, and with a snap, back down to the ground, around his body and up behind him. A 10 foot wide circle of 6 foot tall flames forming in the trail of his wing movements, completely encircling him. Reversing the motion, extinguishes the blaze. “Now Apprentice do as I have done. Pull the energy from the elements and create fire”
Attempt after attempt rewards Dolpher with nothing but headaches and sweat, and on a rare occasions, a spark. Another satchel of Jurot powder refreshes him for more attempts, none of which become successes.
Finally Sindatur announces the end of the lesson with frustration and sends Dolpher home.
Both of them repeating their midnight rituals. Dolpher trudging home, and stealing into his home, without a word aside from the obligatory “Good night” to his parents. Sindatur, moping and remembering until the first light of day.
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 7 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF OX’ANA
Ox'Ana wakes a couple hours before sun-up, and goes about her morning ritual
of fixing herself as if to go out for the most elegant night of the year,
smoothing potato starch into her hair to get the curls just right. Then as
she does every morning, dusts the bungalow from one end to the other
obsessively fluffing the pillows on Ortho's easy chair as she goes. Finally,
she dons her perfectly pressed apron and prepares breakfast for Dolpher and
Ortho.
Ortho is the first to arrive as usual. He marches into the Kitchen looking for
his breakfast, kissing Ox'Ana good morning, before taking his seat.
"Good Morning My Love," Ox'Ana replies as she serves a steaming plate of
breakfast ambrosia. Grabbing the pot of Blue Brew from the fire, she fills
his outstretched cup.
A short time later Dolpher trudges in and offers, "Before anyone asks…my
training went the same…I can't perform Retrieving…I get headaches…soaked
with sweat, and when I'm lucky enough to have influence on the object, I break
it."
"Why do we put him through this Ox'Ana? He's a great Warrior. What more could
a man hope for? It's been good enough for as many generations as we have
records for in our family. Why can't we be proud of him for what he is?"
"My Love, it's not our decision what our fate will be, the Council guides us.
Of Course we're proud of Dolpher. But, he's bypassed his Warrior Training.
It's time for the family to grow in our legacy. Warrior skills come to Dolpher
naturally. He needs to be challenged "
"Um...Mom? Dad? I'm right here. Think we could work that into our conversation
next time?"
"Sorry son. You know how your Father and I get."
"Well...Please...I can't do this Magic thing. No matter how hard I try, I have
the same failures. Over and over and over again. PLEASE stop asking me to
repeat my failures out loud. If I fail in a new way, or actually accomplish
something, I’ll let you know. Otherwise, know that nothing's changed. I'm tired of
explaining it."
"Of course Dolpher. Your father and I won't demand information from you
anymore. Right Ortho?" she enquired, giving a look that couldn't be denied.
"Of course, dear," he replied meekly.
"Thanks. I'm going to my room to try yet again to accomplish something,"
Dolpher explained as he grabbed his empty dishes and rinsed them off.
"I'm bringing you lunch again Dear. Good luck."
“I Don't like what we're doing to him, it's tearing him down. A Warrior needs
confidence"
"It'll be fine Love. Magic will challenge him and make him grow."
"I have to go open the shop. I'll see you this evening Dear." Ortho declared
as he got up from the table. Leaving his empty dishes where they lay, he kissed
her on the cheek and headed out the door.
Ox’Ana makes the trek across the forest and through the town to pick up some fresh
Fruit and fish. As she exit’s the Fishery, she runs into the wife of La’Sage.
“Good Morning Ox’Ana,” the woman called out enthusiastically.
“Good Morning Areesa,” Ox’Ana replied irritably.
“We haven’t seen Dolpher around for a week. Jy’Mee misses him.”
“Surely La’Sage told you Dolpher transferred to the Magic Guild?”
“Of Course he did, plus I witnessed his presentation to Master Sindatur in the Council Meeting. Jy’Mee is studying Magic as well. But she has time to spend with Dolpher. She’s doing very well. She can make fire balls and fire rings with a single wave of her hand, and retrieve the Morning Parchment, or a cup from across the room. About the only thing she can’t do is blend a good powder. But, that’s about the same thing as cooking, so, it’s not important if she does that well,” Areesa echoed back with a bounce in her voice.
“Dolpher has been training in the Warrior’s Guild for 4 years. Over a quarter of his life, so far. He has that discipline engrained in his mind. He comes from a long line of the best Warrior’s our Village has to offer. That’s not a discipline you change easily. He’s been working non-stop to conquer the new disciplines magic requires. He’s been neglecting eating even, taking time out for only a quick breakfast. The rest of the time has been under Master Sindatur’s guidance or in his room practicing. He still hasn’t been successful with Retrieving, nor with fire. His analytical understanding of his Warrior’s Skills however, have made his potion blending exceptional. Oh, and regarding “Home Skills”, such as cooking…Dolpher is accustomed to my superior cooking and dust free home. Jy’Mee would be well advised to learn such skills, if she ever wishes to win my son’s heart,” Ox’Ana finished with a smarminess in her voice.
Areesa’s face began to flush from embarrassment and anger. She turned to go about the rest of her errands, calling back “Good Day Ox’Ana.”
Ox’Ana politely responds, “Good Day Areesa.” With an indignant snap of her head, she enters the Leathers and Furriers, greeting Ortho with a smile. Marching to the counter, she leans over and pecks him on the cheek, Her own cheeks flushed with irritation. She sweetly says, “ Hello My Love. How’s your day going?”
Ortho replies, “Fine…just fine. La’Sage was her a bit ago asking how Dolpher’s Magic training is going. He’s heartsick to lose such an asset in the Warrior’s Guild. Jy’Mee is heartsick too. Dolpher’s made no time for her.”
Ox’Ana hands Ortho the lunch she picked up for him at the Fishery, her cheeks flushing all the more and belts out, “Yes…Areesa was informing me of the same thing just now. She bragged about Jy’Mee’s Magical prowess, while belittling Dolpher’s struggle and dedication to the craft. Seems she believes Jy’Mee is quite the catch for Dolpher, despite her complete lack of skills in the home.”
“Well, she is quite the beauty, and very smitten with our son. He could surely do worse.”
“Ox’Ana’s reply was a quick, “Hmmm…I need to get back Love. Dolpher should be eating soon, and I have some cleaning to do. See you this evening My Love.” She said as she pecked him on the lips.
“Goodbye My Dear. Thanks for the lunch,” Ortho called after her.
Returning home, Ox’Ana prepares a plate for Dolpher of his favorite things. Knocking on the door, she kisses him on the head, hands him his lunch and exits, without a single mention of Areesa or La’Sage’s inquiries. Returning to the living room, Ox’Ana goes about more dusting.
Ox'Ana wakes a couple hours before sun-up, and goes about her morning ritual
of fixing herself as if to go out for the most elegant night of the year,
smoothing potato starch into her hair to get the curls just right. Then as
she does every morning, dusts the bungalow from one end to the other
obsessively fluffing the pillows on Ortho's easy chair as she goes. Finally,
she dons her perfectly pressed apron and prepares breakfast for Dolpher and
Ortho.
Ortho is the first to arrive as usual. He marches into the Kitchen looking for
his breakfast, kissing Ox'Ana good morning, before taking his seat.
"Good Morning My Love," Ox'Ana replies as she serves a steaming plate of
breakfast ambrosia. Grabbing the pot of Blue Brew from the fire, she fills
his outstretched cup.
A short time later Dolpher trudges in and offers, "Before anyone asks…my
training went the same…I can't perform Retrieving…I get headaches…soaked
with sweat, and when I'm lucky enough to have influence on the object, I break
it."
"Why do we put him through this Ox'Ana? He's a great Warrior. What more could
a man hope for? It's been good enough for as many generations as we have
records for in our family. Why can't we be proud of him for what he is?"
"My Love, it's not our decision what our fate will be, the Council guides us.
Of Course we're proud of Dolpher. But, he's bypassed his Warrior Training.
It's time for the family to grow in our legacy. Warrior skills come to Dolpher
naturally. He needs to be challenged "
"Um...Mom? Dad? I'm right here. Think we could work that into our conversation
next time?"
"Sorry son. You know how your Father and I get."
"Well...Please...I can't do this Magic thing. No matter how hard I try, I have
the same failures. Over and over and over again. PLEASE stop asking me to
repeat my failures out loud. If I fail in a new way, or actually accomplish
something, I’ll let you know. Otherwise, know that nothing's changed. I'm tired of
explaining it."
"Of course Dolpher. Your father and I won't demand information from you
anymore. Right Ortho?" she enquired, giving a look that couldn't be denied.
"Of course, dear," he replied meekly.
"Thanks. I'm going to my room to try yet again to accomplish something,"
Dolpher explained as he grabbed his empty dishes and rinsed them off.
"I'm bringing you lunch again Dear. Good luck."
“I Don't like what we're doing to him, it's tearing him down. A Warrior needs
confidence"
"It'll be fine Love. Magic will challenge him and make him grow."
"I have to go open the shop. I'll see you this evening Dear." Ortho declared
as he got up from the table. Leaving his empty dishes where they lay, he kissed
her on the cheek and headed out the door.
Ox’Ana makes the trek across the forest and through the town to pick up some fresh
Fruit and fish. As she exit’s the Fishery, she runs into the wife of La’Sage.
“Good Morning Ox’Ana,” the woman called out enthusiastically.
“Good Morning Areesa,” Ox’Ana replied irritably.
“We haven’t seen Dolpher around for a week. Jy’Mee misses him.”
“Surely La’Sage told you Dolpher transferred to the Magic Guild?”
“Of Course he did, plus I witnessed his presentation to Master Sindatur in the Council Meeting. Jy’Mee is studying Magic as well. But she has time to spend with Dolpher. She’s doing very well. She can make fire balls and fire rings with a single wave of her hand, and retrieve the Morning Parchment, or a cup from across the room. About the only thing she can’t do is blend a good powder. But, that’s about the same thing as cooking, so, it’s not important if she does that well,” Areesa echoed back with a bounce in her voice.
“Dolpher has been training in the Warrior’s Guild for 4 years. Over a quarter of his life, so far. He has that discipline engrained in his mind. He comes from a long line of the best Warrior’s our Village has to offer. That’s not a discipline you change easily. He’s been working non-stop to conquer the new disciplines magic requires. He’s been neglecting eating even, taking time out for only a quick breakfast. The rest of the time has been under Master Sindatur’s guidance or in his room practicing. He still hasn’t been successful with Retrieving, nor with fire. His analytical understanding of his Warrior’s Skills however, have made his potion blending exceptional. Oh, and regarding “Home Skills”, such as cooking…Dolpher is accustomed to my superior cooking and dust free home. Jy’Mee would be well advised to learn such skills, if she ever wishes to win my son’s heart,” Ox’Ana finished with a smarminess in her voice.
Areesa’s face began to flush from embarrassment and anger. She turned to go about the rest of her errands, calling back “Good Day Ox’Ana.”
Ox’Ana politely responds, “Good Day Areesa.” With an indignant snap of her head, she enters the Leathers and Furriers, greeting Ortho with a smile. Marching to the counter, she leans over and pecks him on the cheek, Her own cheeks flushed with irritation. She sweetly says, “ Hello My Love. How’s your day going?”
Ortho replies, “Fine…just fine. La’Sage was her a bit ago asking how Dolpher’s Magic training is going. He’s heartsick to lose such an asset in the Warrior’s Guild. Jy’Mee is heartsick too. Dolpher’s made no time for her.”
Ox’Ana hands Ortho the lunch she picked up for him at the Fishery, her cheeks flushing all the more and belts out, “Yes…Areesa was informing me of the same thing just now. She bragged about Jy’Mee’s Magical prowess, while belittling Dolpher’s struggle and dedication to the craft. Seems she believes Jy’Mee is quite the catch for Dolpher, despite her complete lack of skills in the home.”
“Well, she is quite the beauty, and very smitten with our son. He could surely do worse.”
“Ox’Ana’s reply was a quick, “Hmmm…I need to get back Love. Dolpher should be eating soon, and I have some cleaning to do. See you this evening My Love.” She said as she pecked him on the lips.
“Goodbye My Dear. Thanks for the lunch,” Ortho called after her.
Returning home, Ox’Ana prepares a plate for Dolpher of his favorite things. Knocking on the door, she kisses him on the head, hands him his lunch and exits, without a single mention of Areesa or La’Sage’s inquiries. Returning to the living room, Ox’Ana goes about more dusting.
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 8: BLOOD TIES
Sunset approaches and Dolpher makes the journey to Sindatur’s. Shoulders hunched and a drag in his step. Almost absentmindedly entering the Bungalow, Dolpher sees another owl and a very pretty red haired girl. A second look and he realizes with amazement it’s Jy’Mee.
“Dolpher, how wonderful to see you, it’s been over a week,” Jy’Mee exclaimed as she rushed up and embraced Dolpher in an iron grip hug.
Puzzled, Dolpher returns the embrace and replies, “Hi Jy’Mee. I’ve needed extra time practicing Magic. I’ve barely left my room aside from Breakfast and coming here.”
The other owl orders, “Jy’Mee compose yourself.”
“I’m sorry Master Ah’Friel,” Jy’Mee bowed.
Sindatur cleared his throat and stepped forward. “Apprentices, Ah’Friel and I have decided you will benefit from changing Masters for tonight’s lesson. Dolpher will work with Ah’Friel to refine his Powder usage with his innate Warrior’s Skills. Ah’Friel has experience with such an art. Jy’Mee excels in the physical Magics, but, her powders have never come close to producing a reflux flash of any green, let alone the emerald shade of her eyes. My Powder prowess exceeds Master Ah’Friel’s.”
Master Ah’Friel interrupts, “Dolpher we should go outside and leave Jy’Mee to her blending.”
“Hand me your Powder Recipe book, Girl.” Sindatur instructs.
Jy’Mee reaches into her pack, pulls out her Powder Blending notes and hands them to Sindatur.
Flipping through the pages, Sindatur frowns at the disorganized manner in which she’s recorded her Powder blending notes in sentences. “First, hand me that blank parchment book.” Taking the book he instructs her “rewrite all your recipes in this manner” Sindatur rewrites the Jurot Powder Recipe as he had trained Dolpher to record them.
Jurot Powder - For Glimmer Effect
INGREDIENTS:
25 Maynak Flowers (Purple)
12 Sporchal Leaves (Yellow)
Jurot Powder (Pink)
Pink Tag
Directions:
In a West-to-Easterly direction grind flowers and leaves to a fine powder.
Toss in an equal portion of Jurot Powder.
After reflux flash properly matches eye color, grind into a fully blended mix.
Scoop a generous amount into satchels tagged in pink
Jy‘Mee rewrites her remaining 3 Powder recipes in the format Sindatur requested and presents the parchment book to Sindatur.
With an arrogant expression in his eyes, Sindatur inspects her work. “You would be well served to be neater in your writing, but it will do for a start. NOW… Mix me a powder with your new book. Select the powder you wish to blend and get the ingredients from this cabinet”
Try as she might, Jy’Mee still hadn’t obtained a remotely green reflux flash after 6 attempts. Wrong ratio of ingredients, wrong ingredients, wrong blending direction. Anything that could go wrong, did. On a 7th attempt, she finally achieved a grayish green.
“Your Master did of course explain to you the color of the ingredient is not a tell-all, yes? He surely must have told you there are numerous orange flowers and that not all Cirna Flowers are orange, yes? I should prove a point and ask you to use your powder, but, I fear it’s not safe enough. Also, because of your lack of blending prowess, it is incredibly important that you blend in the appropriate direction. Blending in the wrong direction works against the natural order and decreases probability; decreases the odds. As you well understand, Magic is about channeling the natural order of things and making them advance to the next level. This applies to blending direction as well as it does to the motions required to make a proper Fire Ring,” Sindatur annunciated with his wings the entire time.
“Master Sindatur, I’m so sorry. I’ll try harder,” Jy’Mee begged with her eyes.
“Fear not Young One. Destiny has carved out a great niche for you, and cooking is not apparent in that Destiny. Only remember to try your best. If you don’t have a skill, you can never excel in it, but, you can become proficient. You may go for tonight, tomorrow return here, for we shall repeat tonight’s arrangements.”
Meanwhile Ah’Friel and Dolpher are outside working on Levitation. Dolpher smashes a satchel to the ground. As he rises, his feet unsteady without the comfort and safety of the ceiling overhead. Floating too high, Dolpher’s blood races and his breath becomes shallow.
Ah’Friel gently commands, “Dolpher envision a ceiling above you. Picture the highest you can go and know that you can go no higher. Imagine the ceiling. If you have to create a pain burst, when you reach a certain height, just as you would with a real ceiling, then do it, you’ll adapt that way.
Dolpher concentrates as instructed, attempts retrieving to give himself pain and gains control. By now, the Levitation effect subsides and Dolpher floats to the ground.
“AGAIN Dolpher,” Ah’Friel cries.
Dolpher slams another satchel to the ground and floats only to the 7 ft height his room allows.
Ah’Friel calls out Warrior moves Dolpher had never heard before. Suggesting flips in this new way and thrusts in that. Dolpher learns more tonight, than in his entire 4h year in the Warrior’s Guild.
“Very well done Dolpher. These techniques haven’t been taught in 700 years. You’re the finest Warrior I’ve seen since. You easily equal Warriors of Old…
Sindatur appears with a scowl in his eyes, cutting Ah’Friel off in mid-sentence. “APPRENTICE… Jy’Mee has gone home, you may do the same. We’ll continue this arrangement tomorrow.”
Dolpher gathers his belongings and heads home.
“Sindatur, why are you withholding the fact that Dolpher’s Great Grandfather Donse was my Master?” Ah’Friel inquired.
I’m withholding nothing of importance. He knows Donse died with Delphia. He knows you have experience with levitation dueling. He needs no more. Do NOT get overly attached to him, and DO NOT fill his head with glories.”
“What are you so worried about?”
“I do not want Dolpher sacrificing himself with Bravado”
A knowing look appears in Ah’Friel’s eyes and he replied, “If Dolpher is even in a position to fight for his life, it means things will be very bad. So bad that no one will be spared the fight. Isn’t it better to send him to that fight armed as heavily as possible? Shouldn’t we put as much into him as will fit?”
“Jy’Mee and Dolpher have a front seat for the dark day that signs indicate is coming. Dolpher is a Human male. They’re not equipped to think of multiple things at the same time. If we give him too many options, he’ll fall deciding which one to employ.” Sindatur protested.
“Sindatur, how could you? To discriminate against the intelligence of your own…”
Cutting Ah’Friel off, Sindatur demands, “ENOUGH…He is my Apprentice and I will control what he learns. You were supposed to control his Levitation, not turn him into a floating windmill.”
“He had already gained control of his Levitation. To continue at that would’ve been a waste of time and effort. He needed to be taught more, and I merely provided it for him”
Sindatur could take no more. He pointed his wing in the direction of Ah’Friel’s home and gasped, “I wish to be alone now. Good Night Brother.” With a snap of his head Sindatur turned toward the door and bolted inside, barely hearing Ah’Friel reply “Good Night to you too, Brother”
Sunset approaches and Dolpher makes the journey to Sindatur’s. Shoulders hunched and a drag in his step. Almost absentmindedly entering the Bungalow, Dolpher sees another owl and a very pretty red haired girl. A second look and he realizes with amazement it’s Jy’Mee.
“Dolpher, how wonderful to see you, it’s been over a week,” Jy’Mee exclaimed as she rushed up and embraced Dolpher in an iron grip hug.
Puzzled, Dolpher returns the embrace and replies, “Hi Jy’Mee. I’ve needed extra time practicing Magic. I’ve barely left my room aside from Breakfast and coming here.”
The other owl orders, “Jy’Mee compose yourself.”
“I’m sorry Master Ah’Friel,” Jy’Mee bowed.
Sindatur cleared his throat and stepped forward. “Apprentices, Ah’Friel and I have decided you will benefit from changing Masters for tonight’s lesson. Dolpher will work with Ah’Friel to refine his Powder usage with his innate Warrior’s Skills. Ah’Friel has experience with such an art. Jy’Mee excels in the physical Magics, but, her powders have never come close to producing a reflux flash of any green, let alone the emerald shade of her eyes. My Powder prowess exceeds Master Ah’Friel’s.”
Master Ah’Friel interrupts, “Dolpher we should go outside and leave Jy’Mee to her blending.”
“Hand me your Powder Recipe book, Girl.” Sindatur instructs.
Jy’Mee reaches into her pack, pulls out her Powder Blending notes and hands them to Sindatur.
Flipping through the pages, Sindatur frowns at the disorganized manner in which she’s recorded her Powder blending notes in sentences. “First, hand me that blank parchment book.” Taking the book he instructs her “rewrite all your recipes in this manner” Sindatur rewrites the Jurot Powder Recipe as he had trained Dolpher to record them.
Jurot Powder - For Glimmer Effect
INGREDIENTS:
25 Maynak Flowers (Purple)
12 Sporchal Leaves (Yellow)
Jurot Powder (Pink)
Pink Tag
Directions:
In a West-to-Easterly direction grind flowers and leaves to a fine powder.
Toss in an equal portion of Jurot Powder.
After reflux flash properly matches eye color, grind into a fully blended mix.
Scoop a generous amount into satchels tagged in pink
Jy‘Mee rewrites her remaining 3 Powder recipes in the format Sindatur requested and presents the parchment book to Sindatur.
With an arrogant expression in his eyes, Sindatur inspects her work. “You would be well served to be neater in your writing, but it will do for a start. NOW… Mix me a powder with your new book. Select the powder you wish to blend and get the ingredients from this cabinet”
Try as she might, Jy’Mee still hadn’t obtained a remotely green reflux flash after 6 attempts. Wrong ratio of ingredients, wrong ingredients, wrong blending direction. Anything that could go wrong, did. On a 7th attempt, she finally achieved a grayish green.
“Your Master did of course explain to you the color of the ingredient is not a tell-all, yes? He surely must have told you there are numerous orange flowers and that not all Cirna Flowers are orange, yes? I should prove a point and ask you to use your powder, but, I fear it’s not safe enough. Also, because of your lack of blending prowess, it is incredibly important that you blend in the appropriate direction. Blending in the wrong direction works against the natural order and decreases probability; decreases the odds. As you well understand, Magic is about channeling the natural order of things and making them advance to the next level. This applies to blending direction as well as it does to the motions required to make a proper Fire Ring,” Sindatur annunciated with his wings the entire time.
“Master Sindatur, I’m so sorry. I’ll try harder,” Jy’Mee begged with her eyes.
“Fear not Young One. Destiny has carved out a great niche for you, and cooking is not apparent in that Destiny. Only remember to try your best. If you don’t have a skill, you can never excel in it, but, you can become proficient. You may go for tonight, tomorrow return here, for we shall repeat tonight’s arrangements.”
Meanwhile Ah’Friel and Dolpher are outside working on Levitation. Dolpher smashes a satchel to the ground. As he rises, his feet unsteady without the comfort and safety of the ceiling overhead. Floating too high, Dolpher’s blood races and his breath becomes shallow.
Ah’Friel gently commands, “Dolpher envision a ceiling above you. Picture the highest you can go and know that you can go no higher. Imagine the ceiling. If you have to create a pain burst, when you reach a certain height, just as you would with a real ceiling, then do it, you’ll adapt that way.
Dolpher concentrates as instructed, attempts retrieving to give himself pain and gains control. By now, the Levitation effect subsides and Dolpher floats to the ground.
“AGAIN Dolpher,” Ah’Friel cries.
Dolpher slams another satchel to the ground and floats only to the 7 ft height his room allows.
Ah’Friel calls out Warrior moves Dolpher had never heard before. Suggesting flips in this new way and thrusts in that. Dolpher learns more tonight, than in his entire 4h year in the Warrior’s Guild.
“Very well done Dolpher. These techniques haven’t been taught in 700 years. You’re the finest Warrior I’ve seen since. You easily equal Warriors of Old…
Sindatur appears with a scowl in his eyes, cutting Ah’Friel off in mid-sentence. “APPRENTICE… Jy’Mee has gone home, you may do the same. We’ll continue this arrangement tomorrow.”
Dolpher gathers his belongings and heads home.
“Sindatur, why are you withholding the fact that Dolpher’s Great Grandfather Donse was my Master?” Ah’Friel inquired.
I’m withholding nothing of importance. He knows Donse died with Delphia. He knows you have experience with levitation dueling. He needs no more. Do NOT get overly attached to him, and DO NOT fill his head with glories.”
“What are you so worried about?”
“I do not want Dolpher sacrificing himself with Bravado”
A knowing look appears in Ah’Friel’s eyes and he replied, “If Dolpher is even in a position to fight for his life, it means things will be very bad. So bad that no one will be spared the fight. Isn’t it better to send him to that fight armed as heavily as possible? Shouldn’t we put as much into him as will fit?”
“Jy’Mee and Dolpher have a front seat for the dark day that signs indicate is coming. Dolpher is a Human male. They’re not equipped to think of multiple things at the same time. If we give him too many options, he’ll fall deciding which one to employ.” Sindatur protested.
“Sindatur, how could you? To discriminate against the intelligence of your own…”
Cutting Ah’Friel off, Sindatur demands, “ENOUGH…He is my Apprentice and I will control what he learns. You were supposed to control his Levitation, not turn him into a floating windmill.”
“He had already gained control of his Levitation. To continue at that would’ve been a waste of time and effort. He needed to be taught more, and I merely provided it for him”
Sindatur could take no more. He pointed his wing in the direction of Ah’Friel’s home and gasped, “I wish to be alone now. Good Night Brother.” With a snap of his head Sindatur turned toward the door and bolted inside, barely hearing Ah’Friel reply “Good Night to you too, Brother”
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 9: RIPPLES of the SWITCH
Dolpher arrives home excited for the first time in days. Opening the Bi-Level door, he lopes in and smiles at his father. His father, noticing the jubilation on Dolpher’s face puts down the morning parchment.
Rising from his chair Ortho smiles and asks, “So…something has you in a good mood. Do you have anything to share?”
Ox’Ana hearing the activity in the sitting room, stops her cleaning and comes from the Kitchen with a plate of oven fresh muffins.
“When I arrived at Master Sindatur’s this evening, there were others . Jy’Mee was there, she’s apprenticing under a Grey Owl Wizard as well, named Ah’Friel. He’s got experience with combining Warrior Skills and Magic. Masters Sindatur and Ah’Friel decided to switch places tonight. My Master worked with Jy’Mee on Powders because she’s terrible with them. Master Ah’Friel helped me with Levitation Dueling.”
A puzzled look on Ox’Ana’s face, she questions, “I thought you told us you had mastered that already?”
‘In my room, yes. I had the ceiling to keep my elevation in control, but, in the open air, I had no such control. He taught me to simulate the pain of hitting my head on the ceiling. Then, once I had gained that control, he showed me Warrior moves no one had shown me before. Moves not used in 700 years. I learned more tonight than La’Sage had been able to teach me the whole last year.”
“That’s great Dolpher, I’m proud of you boy. Perhaps you can show me these new skills?” Ortho gushed with pride.
“Sure Dad. You can’t duel on the ground like that though.”
Ox’Ana giggles, then shot an apologetic smile to Ortho. “So…Jy’Mee can’t mix a decent powder, eh? You need to know Dolpher, that’s probably a good indicator of cooking skills. If you strap yourself to her, the quality of your Breakfasts and Dinners will drastically decline. You know you can have your pick of the girls in the Village?”
“Mom, easy on her, Jy’Mee is who pick”
“Of course, Dear, just so you know.”
Ortho started, “She’s quite the looker and she worships…”
Ox’Ana cut him off with a look and kissed Dolpher Good Night.
Shucking off his leathers, Dolpher showers and climbs into bed.
Jy’Mee blinks her eyes blearily as she exits her dreams. Gaining her senses she hears the sound of the Golden Brook outside her window, mixed with the sweet harmonies of Melody birds. Rising from her bed, she picks out her prettiest dress and heads into the shower. After a refreshing shower, Jy’Mee slips on her dress and runs a polished shark bone through her hair. Grabbing an orange berry from the basket she runs it around her lips, and dabs off the excess moisture.
Bounding into the Kitchen, Jy’Mee is greeted by her parents in unison, “Good Morning, Dear.”
“Areesa asks, “ What did Master Ah’Friel teach you last night?”
“Actually, Master Ah’Friel told me to meet him at Master Sindatur’s last night.”
Areesa’s ears perked up and she wondered aloud, “Oh…isn’t he Dolpher’s Master? Did you get to see him? Is he still enchanted with you? Ox’Ana seems to believe it’s a fleeting fancy for Dolpher.”
“Yes, Master Sindatur is indeed Dolpher’s Master. Yes, I got to see him briefly and, yes he’s still enchanted. Anyway as I was saying, Masters Sindatur and Ah’Friel taught each other’s Apprentices last night. I prepared powders with Sindatur, he even helped me arrange my Powder blending notes into a recipe format. I even came closer to a green reflux flash than ever before on one attempt.”
“Perfect, Ox’Ana suggested Dolpher might be more enchanted if you could blend powders well. Was he impressed with your Magic Skills?”
“we didn’t get to spend any time together. Dolpher walked up, I ran to hug him, my Master scolded me to compose myself, and then Master Sindatur took me into the Kitchen and Master Ah’Friel took Dolpher outside. After numerous attempts at powder blending Master Sindatur sent me home, with instructions to return there tonight.”
“Tell Dolpher we miss him in the warrior’s Guild. I’m still disappointed the Magic Council took him away from me. I think he’d make a great instructor and our test scores would rise dramatically from his teaching,” La’Sage chimed in.
“Of course, Father,” Jy’Mee assured as she ate a final bite. Dabbing her towel into the bowl of water in the center of the table, she gently wiped the corners of her mouth. Sliding her chair out, Jy’Mee excuses herself, cleaning her dishes before leaving the Kitchen.
Returning to her bathroom, she picks up a piece of redwood bark and pulverizes it, adding a mere drop of Salmon oil. Next she picks out a feather and dips it into the mixture, highlighting her eyelids and eyebrows with it. Smoothing a bit of potato starch on her long auburn locks, she piles them on her head in a waterfall of natural curls. Jy’Mee reappears in the Kitchen and belts out, “I’m going to visit Jonas and get some supplies. Are you heading to work yet, Father?”
“Yes, I’ll be right out, I just need to gather a few things.”
Jy’Mee and her father walk to the Village. She stops in at Jonas’ and La’Sage continues on to the Warrior’s Guild.
“Jy’Mee, how wonderful to see you. You’re getting prettier everyday. One day, you’ll surpass Ox’Ana’s beauty…Just don’t tell her I said that,” Jonas greeted her excitedly as she entered the shop. “I was wondering when I’d have the honor to serve you. Dolpher was in days ago for his first supplies. I expected to see you together. I hear your skills compliment each other. You started the same evening, right?”
“Yes, Dolpher was presented to Master Sindatur, and I to Master Ah’Friel. Last night my Master and I went to Master Sindatur’s and they worked with each other’s Apprentice. Dolpher and I, however, only saw each other long enough for a quick hug.”
“You should study together in the days. That way you could help each other and spend time together. I understand Dolpher excels at Powders, and you with other Magics. You could help each other,” Jonas advised.
“I’d love that, Jonas. I’ve missed Dolpher terribly this last week. I’m hoping now we both know we’re studying Magic, he’ll ask me. Can you give me the ingredients to blend these Powders ?” Jy’Mee asked as she handed Jonas her Parchment book of Powder Recipes.
Jonas flips through the pages and regretfully informs her, “I can’t fill all of these. You’ll have to choose between this one…and this one. Masters Sindatur and Ah’Friel are concerned about your lack of proficiency with getting the right ingredient. They don’t want you to have in your possession two ingredients that look just alike, until you improve in this area. If you use this yellow leaf, in this Powder, in error, the results could be extremely poisonous. When you learn to recognize the ingredients better, then you’ll be allowed to possess two or more that look alike.”
“Dolpher is working on Levitation with my Master, so I’ll choose that Powder, in the hopes that we will be working together very soon.”
“If you have other errands to run, feel free to run them while I gather all this up for you, and you can pick it up when you’re done with your other shopping,” Jonas offered.
“Thanks Jonas. I did promise Mom I would pick up a few things for her.” Jy’Mee pops into the Food Market next door and selects several types of roots and potatoes from the dry section, and milk from the cold section. Returning to the Magic Shop, Jy’Mee takes the Burlap sack Jonas has waiting for her. “Thank you”
Arriving home after the short return journey, Jy’Mee gives her mother the roots, potatoes and milk. Quickly slipping out of the Kitchen she takes her Powder Ingredients to her room and arranges them haphazardly on the shelves, not taking the care to arrange them label out.
Dolpher leaves early this evening and stops off at the 900 year old Oak Jy’Mee’s family resides in. Stepping up to the door Dolpher knocks.
Areesa opens the door and smiles ear to ear, “Hi Dolpher. Great to see you. Have a seat, I’ll get Jy’Mee for you. I know it’s getting to be time for you to get to Master Sindatur’s home”
Jy’Mee bounces into the room, and hugs the breath out of Dolpher, “Thanks for stopping by Dolpher.”
“I was hoping to walk you over to my Master’s place. We should go now, though, so we won’t risk being late,” Dolpher beamed.
“I’d love to Dolpher.” A quick kiss on Dolpher’s cheek, and a grab of his hand and Jy’Mee led them out the door. On the way to Master Sindatur’s they make plans for meeting the following day, in the Village Square, to practice together by the Carnelian Lake.
Dolpher arrives home excited for the first time in days. Opening the Bi-Level door, he lopes in and smiles at his father. His father, noticing the jubilation on Dolpher’s face puts down the morning parchment.
Rising from his chair Ortho smiles and asks, “So…something has you in a good mood. Do you have anything to share?”
Ox’Ana hearing the activity in the sitting room, stops her cleaning and comes from the Kitchen with a plate of oven fresh muffins.
“When I arrived at Master Sindatur’s this evening, there were others . Jy’Mee was there, she’s apprenticing under a Grey Owl Wizard as well, named Ah’Friel. He’s got experience with combining Warrior Skills and Magic. Masters Sindatur and Ah’Friel decided to switch places tonight. My Master worked with Jy’Mee on Powders because she’s terrible with them. Master Ah’Friel helped me with Levitation Dueling.”
A puzzled look on Ox’Ana’s face, she questions, “I thought you told us you had mastered that already?”
‘In my room, yes. I had the ceiling to keep my elevation in control, but, in the open air, I had no such control. He taught me to simulate the pain of hitting my head on the ceiling. Then, once I had gained that control, he showed me Warrior moves no one had shown me before. Moves not used in 700 years. I learned more tonight than La’Sage had been able to teach me the whole last year.”
“That’s great Dolpher, I’m proud of you boy. Perhaps you can show me these new skills?” Ortho gushed with pride.
“Sure Dad. You can’t duel on the ground like that though.”
Ox’Ana giggles, then shot an apologetic smile to Ortho. “So…Jy’Mee can’t mix a decent powder, eh? You need to know Dolpher, that’s probably a good indicator of cooking skills. If you strap yourself to her, the quality of your Breakfasts and Dinners will drastically decline. You know you can have your pick of the girls in the Village?”
“Mom, easy on her, Jy’Mee is who pick”
“Of course, Dear, just so you know.”
Ortho started, “She’s quite the looker and she worships…”
Ox’Ana cut him off with a look and kissed Dolpher Good Night.
Shucking off his leathers, Dolpher showers and climbs into bed.
Jy’Mee blinks her eyes blearily as she exits her dreams. Gaining her senses she hears the sound of the Golden Brook outside her window, mixed with the sweet harmonies of Melody birds. Rising from her bed, she picks out her prettiest dress and heads into the shower. After a refreshing shower, Jy’Mee slips on her dress and runs a polished shark bone through her hair. Grabbing an orange berry from the basket she runs it around her lips, and dabs off the excess moisture.
Bounding into the Kitchen, Jy’Mee is greeted by her parents in unison, “Good Morning, Dear.”
“Areesa asks, “ What did Master Ah’Friel teach you last night?”
“Actually, Master Ah’Friel told me to meet him at Master Sindatur’s last night.”
Areesa’s ears perked up and she wondered aloud, “Oh…isn’t he Dolpher’s Master? Did you get to see him? Is he still enchanted with you? Ox’Ana seems to believe it’s a fleeting fancy for Dolpher.”
“Yes, Master Sindatur is indeed Dolpher’s Master. Yes, I got to see him briefly and, yes he’s still enchanted. Anyway as I was saying, Masters Sindatur and Ah’Friel taught each other’s Apprentices last night. I prepared powders with Sindatur, he even helped me arrange my Powder blending notes into a recipe format. I even came closer to a green reflux flash than ever before on one attempt.”
“Perfect, Ox’Ana suggested Dolpher might be more enchanted if you could blend powders well. Was he impressed with your Magic Skills?”
“we didn’t get to spend any time together. Dolpher walked up, I ran to hug him, my Master scolded me to compose myself, and then Master Sindatur took me into the Kitchen and Master Ah’Friel took Dolpher outside. After numerous attempts at powder blending Master Sindatur sent me home, with instructions to return there tonight.”
“Tell Dolpher we miss him in the warrior’s Guild. I’m still disappointed the Magic Council took him away from me. I think he’d make a great instructor and our test scores would rise dramatically from his teaching,” La’Sage chimed in.
“Of course, Father,” Jy’Mee assured as she ate a final bite. Dabbing her towel into the bowl of water in the center of the table, she gently wiped the corners of her mouth. Sliding her chair out, Jy’Mee excuses herself, cleaning her dishes before leaving the Kitchen.
Returning to her bathroom, she picks up a piece of redwood bark and pulverizes it, adding a mere drop of Salmon oil. Next she picks out a feather and dips it into the mixture, highlighting her eyelids and eyebrows with it. Smoothing a bit of potato starch on her long auburn locks, she piles them on her head in a waterfall of natural curls. Jy’Mee reappears in the Kitchen and belts out, “I’m going to visit Jonas and get some supplies. Are you heading to work yet, Father?”
“Yes, I’ll be right out, I just need to gather a few things.”
Jy’Mee and her father walk to the Village. She stops in at Jonas’ and La’Sage continues on to the Warrior’s Guild.
“Jy’Mee, how wonderful to see you. You’re getting prettier everyday. One day, you’ll surpass Ox’Ana’s beauty…Just don’t tell her I said that,” Jonas greeted her excitedly as she entered the shop. “I was wondering when I’d have the honor to serve you. Dolpher was in days ago for his first supplies. I expected to see you together. I hear your skills compliment each other. You started the same evening, right?”
“Yes, Dolpher was presented to Master Sindatur, and I to Master Ah’Friel. Last night my Master and I went to Master Sindatur’s and they worked with each other’s Apprentice. Dolpher and I, however, only saw each other long enough for a quick hug.”
“You should study together in the days. That way you could help each other and spend time together. I understand Dolpher excels at Powders, and you with other Magics. You could help each other,” Jonas advised.
“I’d love that, Jonas. I’ve missed Dolpher terribly this last week. I’m hoping now we both know we’re studying Magic, he’ll ask me. Can you give me the ingredients to blend these Powders ?” Jy’Mee asked as she handed Jonas her Parchment book of Powder Recipes.
Jonas flips through the pages and regretfully informs her, “I can’t fill all of these. You’ll have to choose between this one…and this one. Masters Sindatur and Ah’Friel are concerned about your lack of proficiency with getting the right ingredient. They don’t want you to have in your possession two ingredients that look just alike, until you improve in this area. If you use this yellow leaf, in this Powder, in error, the results could be extremely poisonous. When you learn to recognize the ingredients better, then you’ll be allowed to possess two or more that look alike.”
“Dolpher is working on Levitation with my Master, so I’ll choose that Powder, in the hopes that we will be working together very soon.”
“If you have other errands to run, feel free to run them while I gather all this up for you, and you can pick it up when you’re done with your other shopping,” Jonas offered.
“Thanks Jonas. I did promise Mom I would pick up a few things for her.” Jy’Mee pops into the Food Market next door and selects several types of roots and potatoes from the dry section, and milk from the cold section. Returning to the Magic Shop, Jy’Mee takes the Burlap sack Jonas has waiting for her. “Thank you”
Arriving home after the short return journey, Jy’Mee gives her mother the roots, potatoes and milk. Quickly slipping out of the Kitchen she takes her Powder Ingredients to her room and arranges them haphazardly on the shelves, not taking the care to arrange them label out.
Dolpher leaves early this evening and stops off at the 900 year old Oak Jy’Mee’s family resides in. Stepping up to the door Dolpher knocks.
Areesa opens the door and smiles ear to ear, “Hi Dolpher. Great to see you. Have a seat, I’ll get Jy’Mee for you. I know it’s getting to be time for you to get to Master Sindatur’s home”
Jy’Mee bounces into the room, and hugs the breath out of Dolpher, “Thanks for stopping by Dolpher.”
“I was hoping to walk you over to my Master’s place. We should go now, though, so we won’t risk being late,” Dolpher beamed.
“I’d love to Dolpher.” A quick kiss on Dolpher’s cheek, and a grab of his hand and Jy’Mee led them out the door. On the way to Master Sindatur’s they make plans for meeting the following day, in the Village Square, to practice together by the Carnelian Lake.
CHAPTER 10: An INTRODUCTION To TELEPATHY
Jy’Mee and Dolpher arrive at Sindatur’s to find the two Masters in an intense conversation. As soon as the two youths noticed their Masters, the owls disengaged from their theatrics.
“Ah…You’ve arrived. As we discussed last night, we’ll continue the same arrangement tonight,” Ah’Friel declared.
Sindatur and Dolpher exchange greetings as do Jy’Mee and Ah’Friel, then Sindatur leads Jy’Mee inside.
“Apprentice, we begin again tonight with Levitation Dueling. BEGIN.”
Dolpher shows the same excellence as the previous lesson. 3 attempts and Ah’Friel was satisfied with his prowess.
“Humans can rarely focus single Telepathic thoughts to someone in particular, but, tonight I wish to make you receptive to receiving them. Look into my eyes and concentrate on my thoughts. Make yourself open to hearing them. This will strain you incredibly. You will need the restorative powers of Jurot Powder to get through this. Have you brought any?”
“Yes Master, I carry some of each of the 3 Powders Master Sindatur has shown me, at all times.”
“You will find this easier to accomplish with someone more closely bonded to, especially Mates, Masters, and parents. Look into my eyes then and tell me the message I am sending you.” Ah’Friel’s eyes constrict. Dolpher looks into them, freeing his mind of other thoughts, concentrating on hearing Ah’Friel’s, sweat beading on his forehead and hands shaking.
“No Young One. Do not try so hard to clear your thoughts. This allows anyone with the skills to read every thought in your head. Instead add my thoughts on top of yours, make them paramount, but without trying to inhibit the others. AGAIN!”
Dolpher looks into Ah’Friel’s narrowing eyes, sweat now streaming down his cheek and hands shaking wildly. With a burst of pain in his head, Dolpher sinks to his knees from the pressure.
“Better Young One, very few thoughts were available for me to grab. Use Jurot Powder and we will try again.”
Dolpher selects a pink tagged satchel from his belt and slams it to the ground. Sweat evaporates from his skin, his hair falls into place and the pain in his head subsides. Even the 2 day old scratch on his arm disappears. Dolpher focuses his mind looking into Ah’Friel’s narrowing eyes. Sweat beads up…and nothing. With a 4th attempt, blood runs from Dolpher’s nose and he cries out excitedly, “I heard you. You said Apprentice”
“There were more words than Apprentice, but, yes, I did send Apprentice in my sentence”
As the night wears on Dolpher makes numerous attempts, refreshing himself with Jurot Powder every 3 or 4 tries. After using 6 satchels of Jurot Powder, Dolpher finally hears Jy’Mee My Apprentice and informs Ah’Friel.
“Very good Dolpher. I said Jy’Mee is my Apprentice. You’ve done well tonight. Our lesson is concluded”
Just then Jy’Mee and Sindatur emerge from the Bungalow. “You may return in 3 sunset’s time. It is our hope you will spend the time wisely,” Sindatur declared.
Dolpher walks Jy’Mee home, who tells him, “I make a green reflux flash almost every time now. Not the right shade of green, but, green nonetheless.”
Dolpher tells Jy’Mee about his Levitation Dueling again and his Thought receiving.
Sindatur compares notes with his brother, “Jy’Mee is improving. She has no Home skills, and yet she can achieve a reflux flash of the proper base color. With her excellence in Natural Forces Channeling Magics, she could be expected to do no better. She is only Human after all.”
“SINDATUR!!! How can you be so Owl-Centric? You could see the aura of Destiny’s path on them with only a tertiary understanding of reading Destiny’s signs. You know the future will be decided upon their knowledge and their actions just by looking at them. Why can’t you understand they must be pushed to gain as much knowledge as possible. That’s our responsibility since we were chosen to light their way.”
“Ah’Friel, My Brother…When you give Humans too many options, they get killed deciding which course of action is the best to take. You, of all people surely must realize this. The Human mind is inferior, they cannot process thoughts and decisions as adeptly as we owls. They are no less dedicated, nor are they any less aggressive. They are merely slower to process information, and live a fraction of our lifetime, so they can only ever accomplish so much.”
“But…Sindatur, it’s not up to us to artificially slow the flow of knowledge to them. They can handle what we provide for them, or Destiny would not have marked them so. Dolpher excels in Levitation Dueling the same as he does with his already acquired Warrior’s Guild skills. He’s no less accomplished in the air then he is on the ground. I can teach him no more in this area, and I doubt anyone alive could. So…I began sending him Telepathic statements. He heard 1 of 4 words by the 4th attempt, and 3 of 4 words by his final try, requiring his 6th satchel of Jurot Powder. This accomplishment may indeed start him on his way to becoming successful with Retrieving.”
I’m glad we’ve found a use for Dolpher. His Natural Forces Channeling are non-existent. Donse’s skills serve him well…Thank You. And Thank You also for training his mate so well in the important Magics”
Dolpher and Jy’Mee arrive at her home. He kisses her sweetly on the cheek and grins, “Good Night. See You tomorrow.”
Arriving home, Dolpher struts in, confidence radiating from his stance. Ortho notices his son’s Peacock dance and gushes, “You look good tonight Son. Tonight went well…eh?”
“Yeah, it did. Master Ah’Friel was thoroughly impressed with my Levitation Dueling. So impressed, he feels he’s expended his teaching ability to show me more. So…He taught me to receive a telepathic message. By the end of the night I heard 3 of 4 words he thought to me. Jy’Mee and I have 2 sunsets off, so we’ll be able to spend some time together.
“Dolpher that’s tremendous,” Interjected Ox’Ana, walking in from the Kitchen. “Most people would hear nothing this early. If you are truly bonded with Jy’Mee you will be able to share thoughts now. Try tomorrow and make sure you are as connected as you believe.”
“Thanks Dad. Mom, I know you have reservations about Jy’Mee. Good Night.”
Dolpher wakes and goes through his normal morning routine, except this time, pride reigned supreme, rather than sensitivity to disappointment.
Jy’Mee wakes, updates her parents on her powder skills and on Dolpher’s Levitation Dueling as well as his entry into the Art of Telepathy. Jy’Mee, returns to her room, arranges her clothes, and showers. After the shower, she applies the lip berry juice and bark oil to her eyelids. Sliding into her best Friday Night Dress, she slicks potato starch through her long auburn locks, twisting ringlets with her polished shark bone.
Dolpher walks Ortho to work and waits for Jy’Mee to arrive.
Jy’Mee makes the short walk to Ortho’s shop. She prances in like a cat, pretty as a picture, and smiles sweetly at Ortho., cheerfully blurting out, “Good Morning Sub-War Master.” Turning to Dolpher, she leaps into his arms and kisses him hungrily on the lips. Quickly pulling back, Jy’Mee reservedly stated, “Are you ready? I’m anxious to get started. We understand each other more than our Masters ever could.”
“Sure, let’s go,” Dolpher shot back taking her hand. “Bye Pop,” he said, waving back as they walked out the door.
Walking past the Fishery, then Jonas’ place, and finally behind the Blacksmith shop, Jy’Mee and Dolpher arrive at the lake. Taking out the cloth they brought with them, they laid it out on the rich grass. Removing the contents from their packs, they breathed deeply and stared into each other’s eyes.
Jy’Mee finally mixes an Amoxil Powder. After 3 failed attempts, with Dolpher’s guidance on a 4th try, she achieves a forest green reflux. Spooning this blend into satchels, she tags them green, grinning ear to ear.
“Well, go ahead,” Dolpher encouraged.
Taking a satchel Jy’Mee slams it against the water’s edge. By the time Jy’Mee gets out far enough, she sinks to her knees, but no further.
“Jy’Mee, it’s OK, don’t frown. You mixed the powder well enough to use it. Lots of Apprentices less than 12 days old, don’t even accomplish that much. Plus, consider all the Channeling Magic you’ve mastered already.”
“Dolpher, stop!! You sound like our Masters. My Mom said Ox’Ana would tell you to challenge my love with Thought Sharing Skills. So…take my hand and share my thoughts.”
Dolpher stares into Jy’Mee’s eyes. Every inch of his vision beyond her eyes fading into the shadows.
They both experience a feeling of bulleting down a tunnel. Before arriving at the apparent destination, they both reel back in pain. Holding their ears (and above) they declare in unison, “Wow”. Dolpher pushes, “Let’s try again. This time, before the pain hits, they gain an understanding of each other, they’d never known before. Dolpher understanding for the first time what it’s like to wake up and spend every effort to look good. Equating it to his own hunger to look good in absorbing new skills presented to him. Jy’Mee now understanding the importance of conquering every challenge presented, for the first time. Both of them wipe the blood from their noses and try a third time. This time, Dolpher feels what a woman feels, Jy‘Mee feels as a man would. This time no pain. The two explore every thought the other has ever had. A double beat becomes audible in the background. Suddenly Jy’Mee and Dolpher achieve Kismet, and realize the double beat is real. A double alarm Claxon calling the Village to arms.
“A double siren. We should get to Sindatur’s right away. He’s the closest Authority figure to us on the West side of the Village. Your Master will certainly be there waiting for us”
Jy’Mee and Dolpher arrive at Sindatur’s to find the two Masters in an intense conversation. As soon as the two youths noticed their Masters, the owls disengaged from their theatrics.
“Ah…You’ve arrived. As we discussed last night, we’ll continue the same arrangement tonight,” Ah’Friel declared.
Sindatur and Dolpher exchange greetings as do Jy’Mee and Ah’Friel, then Sindatur leads Jy’Mee inside.
“Apprentice, we begin again tonight with Levitation Dueling. BEGIN.”
Dolpher shows the same excellence as the previous lesson. 3 attempts and Ah’Friel was satisfied with his prowess.
“Humans can rarely focus single Telepathic thoughts to someone in particular, but, tonight I wish to make you receptive to receiving them. Look into my eyes and concentrate on my thoughts. Make yourself open to hearing them. This will strain you incredibly. You will need the restorative powers of Jurot Powder to get through this. Have you brought any?”
“Yes Master, I carry some of each of the 3 Powders Master Sindatur has shown me, at all times.”
“You will find this easier to accomplish with someone more closely bonded to, especially Mates, Masters, and parents. Look into my eyes then and tell me the message I am sending you.” Ah’Friel’s eyes constrict. Dolpher looks into them, freeing his mind of other thoughts, concentrating on hearing Ah’Friel’s, sweat beading on his forehead and hands shaking.
“No Young One. Do not try so hard to clear your thoughts. This allows anyone with the skills to read every thought in your head. Instead add my thoughts on top of yours, make them paramount, but without trying to inhibit the others. AGAIN!”
Dolpher looks into Ah’Friel’s narrowing eyes, sweat now streaming down his cheek and hands shaking wildly. With a burst of pain in his head, Dolpher sinks to his knees from the pressure.
“Better Young One, very few thoughts were available for me to grab. Use Jurot Powder and we will try again.”
Dolpher selects a pink tagged satchel from his belt and slams it to the ground. Sweat evaporates from his skin, his hair falls into place and the pain in his head subsides. Even the 2 day old scratch on his arm disappears. Dolpher focuses his mind looking into Ah’Friel’s narrowing eyes. Sweat beads up…and nothing. With a 4th attempt, blood runs from Dolpher’s nose and he cries out excitedly, “I heard you. You said Apprentice”
“There were more words than Apprentice, but, yes, I did send Apprentice in my sentence”
As the night wears on Dolpher makes numerous attempts, refreshing himself with Jurot Powder every 3 or 4 tries. After using 6 satchels of Jurot Powder, Dolpher finally hears Jy’Mee My Apprentice and informs Ah’Friel.
“Very good Dolpher. I said Jy’Mee is my Apprentice. You’ve done well tonight. Our lesson is concluded”
Just then Jy’Mee and Sindatur emerge from the Bungalow. “You may return in 3 sunset’s time. It is our hope you will spend the time wisely,” Sindatur declared.
Dolpher walks Jy’Mee home, who tells him, “I make a green reflux flash almost every time now. Not the right shade of green, but, green nonetheless.”
Dolpher tells Jy’Mee about his Levitation Dueling again and his Thought receiving.
Sindatur compares notes with his brother, “Jy’Mee is improving. She has no Home skills, and yet she can achieve a reflux flash of the proper base color. With her excellence in Natural Forces Channeling Magics, she could be expected to do no better. She is only Human after all.”
“SINDATUR!!! How can you be so Owl-Centric? You could see the aura of Destiny’s path on them with only a tertiary understanding of reading Destiny’s signs. You know the future will be decided upon their knowledge and their actions just by looking at them. Why can’t you understand they must be pushed to gain as much knowledge as possible. That’s our responsibility since we were chosen to light their way.”
“Ah’Friel, My Brother…When you give Humans too many options, they get killed deciding which course of action is the best to take. You, of all people surely must realize this. The Human mind is inferior, they cannot process thoughts and decisions as adeptly as we owls. They are no less dedicated, nor are they any less aggressive. They are merely slower to process information, and live a fraction of our lifetime, so they can only ever accomplish so much.”
“But…Sindatur, it’s not up to us to artificially slow the flow of knowledge to them. They can handle what we provide for them, or Destiny would not have marked them so. Dolpher excels in Levitation Dueling the same as he does with his already acquired Warrior’s Guild skills. He’s no less accomplished in the air then he is on the ground. I can teach him no more in this area, and I doubt anyone alive could. So…I began sending him Telepathic statements. He heard 1 of 4 words by the 4th attempt, and 3 of 4 words by his final try, requiring his 6th satchel of Jurot Powder. This accomplishment may indeed start him on his way to becoming successful with Retrieving.”
I’m glad we’ve found a use for Dolpher. His Natural Forces Channeling are non-existent. Donse’s skills serve him well…Thank You. And Thank You also for training his mate so well in the important Magics”
Dolpher and Jy’Mee arrive at her home. He kisses her sweetly on the cheek and grins, “Good Night. See You tomorrow.”
Arriving home, Dolpher struts in, confidence radiating from his stance. Ortho notices his son’s Peacock dance and gushes, “You look good tonight Son. Tonight went well…eh?”
“Yeah, it did. Master Ah’Friel was thoroughly impressed with my Levitation Dueling. So impressed, he feels he’s expended his teaching ability to show me more. So…He taught me to receive a telepathic message. By the end of the night I heard 3 of 4 words he thought to me. Jy’Mee and I have 2 sunsets off, so we’ll be able to spend some time together.
“Dolpher that’s tremendous,” Interjected Ox’Ana, walking in from the Kitchen. “Most people would hear nothing this early. If you are truly bonded with Jy’Mee you will be able to share thoughts now. Try tomorrow and make sure you are as connected as you believe.”
“Thanks Dad. Mom, I know you have reservations about Jy’Mee. Good Night.”
Dolpher wakes and goes through his normal morning routine, except this time, pride reigned supreme, rather than sensitivity to disappointment.
Jy’Mee wakes, updates her parents on her powder skills and on Dolpher’s Levitation Dueling as well as his entry into the Art of Telepathy. Jy’Mee, returns to her room, arranges her clothes, and showers. After the shower, she applies the lip berry juice and bark oil to her eyelids. Sliding into her best Friday Night Dress, she slicks potato starch through her long auburn locks, twisting ringlets with her polished shark bone.
Dolpher walks Ortho to work and waits for Jy’Mee to arrive.
Jy’Mee makes the short walk to Ortho’s shop. She prances in like a cat, pretty as a picture, and smiles sweetly at Ortho., cheerfully blurting out, “Good Morning Sub-War Master.” Turning to Dolpher, she leaps into his arms and kisses him hungrily on the lips. Quickly pulling back, Jy’Mee reservedly stated, “Are you ready? I’m anxious to get started. We understand each other more than our Masters ever could.”
“Sure, let’s go,” Dolpher shot back taking her hand. “Bye Pop,” he said, waving back as they walked out the door.
Walking past the Fishery, then Jonas’ place, and finally behind the Blacksmith shop, Jy’Mee and Dolpher arrive at the lake. Taking out the cloth they brought with them, they laid it out on the rich grass. Removing the contents from their packs, they breathed deeply and stared into each other’s eyes.
Jy’Mee finally mixes an Amoxil Powder. After 3 failed attempts, with Dolpher’s guidance on a 4th try, she achieves a forest green reflux. Spooning this blend into satchels, she tags them green, grinning ear to ear.
“Well, go ahead,” Dolpher encouraged.
Taking a satchel Jy’Mee slams it against the water’s edge. By the time Jy’Mee gets out far enough, she sinks to her knees, but no further.
“Jy’Mee, it’s OK, don’t frown. You mixed the powder well enough to use it. Lots of Apprentices less than 12 days old, don’t even accomplish that much. Plus, consider all the Channeling Magic you’ve mastered already.”
“Dolpher, stop!! You sound like our Masters. My Mom said Ox’Ana would tell you to challenge my love with Thought Sharing Skills. So…take my hand and share my thoughts.”
Dolpher stares into Jy’Mee’s eyes. Every inch of his vision beyond her eyes fading into the shadows.
They both experience a feeling of bulleting down a tunnel. Before arriving at the apparent destination, they both reel back in pain. Holding their ears (and above) they declare in unison, “Wow”. Dolpher pushes, “Let’s try again. This time, before the pain hits, they gain an understanding of each other, they’d never known before. Dolpher understanding for the first time what it’s like to wake up and spend every effort to look good. Equating it to his own hunger to look good in absorbing new skills presented to him. Jy’Mee now understanding the importance of conquering every challenge presented, for the first time. Both of them wipe the blood from their noses and try a third time. This time, Dolpher feels what a woman feels, Jy‘Mee feels as a man would. This time no pain. The two explore every thought the other has ever had. A double beat becomes audible in the background. Suddenly Jy’Mee and Dolpher achieve Kismet, and realize the double beat is real. A double alarm Claxon calling the Village to arms.
“A double siren. We should get to Sindatur’s right away. He’s the closest Authority figure to us on the West side of the Village. Your Master will certainly be there waiting for us”
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
CHAPTER 11: A CALL TO ARMS
Gathering their things hurriedly, to the ever increasing sound of the siren, Jy’Mee and Dolpher set off to Master Sindatur’s at a dash. Arriving out of breath, they find Sindatur and Ah’Friel waiting for them.
Gasping to catch his breath, Dolpher squeaks, “What’s happening Master?”
“Necrots. Rotted Remains reanimated, forming an army a short ways into the forest. Necrots aren’t natural. They are raised through Powders blended with ingredients that are banned in our village, due to their dark nature. We, however, do not know who’s beyond the Necrots, controlling them. DOLPHER!! YOU, WILL NOT attempt channeling magic. Stick to what you know and excel in. Warrior Skills and Levitation are best suited to you. Any powders you or Jy’Mee may find useful, should also come from your supplies. JY’MEE!! Ah’Friel and I have agreed that you should not use any of your Powders for you, nor for Dolpher, despite the fact you have one more in your Powder Recipe book. Stay together our Young Apprentices, compliment each others skills, and protect each other. DO NOT leave each other’s side.” Sindatur finally finished his litany.
Ah’Friel chimed in, “ You, have both begun a foray into Receiving thoughts. Do your best to open your minds to receiving instructions from us. Necrots have no mental abilities, therefore they are no threat to invade your mind if you open it up too far, so feel free to explore this opening, to better receive our sent thoughts. They’re puppets on a string, so they present no challenge to even the simplest of minds. We know not what awaits us beyond them, so you must use our instructions along the way, to focus that open connection to only us before we face it. By the time the Necrots are dispensed, you must be prepared for any kind of mental invasion, so focus before we get there.”
“Of course, Master. Dolpher and I had a very successful mental connection made as we noticed the claxon starting to sound. We won’t disappoint you,” Jy’Mee promised. “What must we do?”
“We wait for La’Sage with his Guild Members, and the Magistrate with the Magic Guild. They’ll arrive or send word very soon now. ,” Sindatur answered.
Just then, an unknown Grey Owl flies into the garden. “Sindatur, the Master Wizards and La’Sage will be here shortly. The Magistrate asks that you stay here and set up a Base of Operations. Ah’Friel, he would like for you to take the Apprentices across the bridge and wait for La’Sage and Ortho . When they arrive with the rest of the Warrior’s Guild, fan out.”
A short time later, La’Sage bolts around the bend in the path leading to Sindatur’s Bungalow, his Guild members following him, including Ortho. Immediately behind them, 3 new Gray Owls, followed by a Walek, and 2 Opossums round the bend fronting Sindatur’s abode. ‘Sindatur, the Magistrate leaves our Guild and La’Sage’s to your guidance. He must remain at the Council Chambers with Ox’Ana to protect the rest of the Village People. Distribute these Crystal Scepters so you may stay in contact with him, as well as the rest of the Warrior and Magic Guilds.” The first Owl declared.
At that moment, one of the Crystals lit up and began to hum. Sindatur reached forward with his wing and waved it over the top of the scepter. An image of the Magistrate shot out in a burst of light, “Good Luck my people. Protect what is ours, and follow Sindatur’s guidance,” the image pleaded.
Sindatur instructs the Warriors and all the Wizards, along with their Apprentices to join Ah’Friel on the front lines.
Ah’Friel commands Jy’Mee and Dolpher to join minds. They join hands, gaze into each other’s eyes and feel the now familiar sensation of racing into the other’s thoughts. Gently pressing his thoughts amongst theirs, Ah’Friel sends, “Yes young ones, you have a strong mental bond. We dared not hope you would come so far, so quickly. You are sending too much however, too widely. Focus now on only reading each other, rather than trying to take your whole mind in. Focus on only each other’s minds, and mine, specifically. Do not try so hard to broadcast.” Just then La’Sage’s party arrived. The breeze turns to an unnatural cold, the stench of 1000 years of rotting death fills the air. ‘The Necrots approach, we must prepare ourselves. La’Sage and Ortho disperse your guild.. Bray’Mon and Day’Na take your apprentices and join the Warriors. Take these Crystal Scepters with you.” Turning to Corian, a descendant of Delphia’s he said, I need you and your apprentice Jor’Tek to remain with me.
Sindatur, Ah’Friel, La’Sage and the rest notice that the Crystals ignite and The Magistrate appears in a burst of light, Ox’Ana shadowing him. “The Necrots advance just beyond the trees, my People, Prepare yourselves for what is to come. We know not what lays
beyond, but we know it’s stronger than what we now face. Take Sindatur’s guidance as my word, follow his every command, no matter how wrong your experiences may tell you
he is. Sindatur knows, and Sindatur is our only salvation. Follow him my people”, The Magistrate commanded as his image faded from the air, Ox’Ana’s eyes showing the confidence in the decision.
As the Necrots approach ever closer, the unnatural coldness of the air increases, as does the stench riding the wind. Dolpher and Jy’Mee notice the emptiness of the advancing souls when they reach out with their minds. Their pulses race as their hearts pound and sweat drips from their brows. Their steps unsteady and unbalanced.
“Apprentices! Feel the cold in the air, smell the emptiness in it. Reach just beyond those trees and feel the unnatural emptiness amongst the movements. Look young ones, there along that tree line. See the movement? Prepare yourself.”
Dolpher, Jy’Mee, and Ah’Friel have the perfect mind meld. Unfortunately Dolpher and Jy’Mee aren’t balancing reality with the mental connection.
Dolpher sees the Necrots advancing in his mind, as if seeing through the Master’s eyes. Trying to focus his eyes in the real world, Dolpher sees reflected enemies approaching. Taking a defensive stance, Dolpher begins to shake, the air feels warm, and his eyes tunnel with no focus. A Necrot thrusts a sword and Dolpher topples over, Jy‘Mee screams in horror. (He’s OK, but Ah’Friel needs to tell them to let loose of the mind meld and focus on the enemy in front of him) Dolpher disconnects his mind and thrashes everything that comes at him.
Gathering their things hurriedly, to the ever increasing sound of the siren, Jy’Mee and Dolpher set off to Master Sindatur’s at a dash. Arriving out of breath, they find Sindatur and Ah’Friel waiting for them.
Gasping to catch his breath, Dolpher squeaks, “What’s happening Master?”
“Necrots. Rotted Remains reanimated, forming an army a short ways into the forest. Necrots aren’t natural. They are raised through Powders blended with ingredients that are banned in our village, due to their dark nature. We, however, do not know who’s beyond the Necrots, controlling them. DOLPHER!! YOU, WILL NOT attempt channeling magic. Stick to what you know and excel in. Warrior Skills and Levitation are best suited to you. Any powders you or Jy’Mee may find useful, should also come from your supplies. JY’MEE!! Ah’Friel and I have agreed that you should not use any of your Powders for you, nor for Dolpher, despite the fact you have one more in your Powder Recipe book. Stay together our Young Apprentices, compliment each others skills, and protect each other. DO NOT leave each other’s side.” Sindatur finally finished his litany.
Ah’Friel chimed in, “ You, have both begun a foray into Receiving thoughts. Do your best to open your minds to receiving instructions from us. Necrots have no mental abilities, therefore they are no threat to invade your mind if you open it up too far, so feel free to explore this opening, to better receive our sent thoughts. They’re puppets on a string, so they present no challenge to even the simplest of minds. We know not what awaits us beyond them, so you must use our instructions along the way, to focus that open connection to only us before we face it. By the time the Necrots are dispensed, you must be prepared for any kind of mental invasion, so focus before we get there.”
“Of course, Master. Dolpher and I had a very successful mental connection made as we noticed the claxon starting to sound. We won’t disappoint you,” Jy’Mee promised. “What must we do?”
“We wait for La’Sage with his Guild Members, and the Magistrate with the Magic Guild. They’ll arrive or send word very soon now. ,” Sindatur answered.
Just then, an unknown Grey Owl flies into the garden. “Sindatur, the Master Wizards and La’Sage will be here shortly. The Magistrate asks that you stay here and set up a Base of Operations. Ah’Friel, he would like for you to take the Apprentices across the bridge and wait for La’Sage and Ortho . When they arrive with the rest of the Warrior’s Guild, fan out.”
A short time later, La’Sage bolts around the bend in the path leading to Sindatur’s Bungalow, his Guild members following him, including Ortho. Immediately behind them, 3 new Gray Owls, followed by a Walek, and 2 Opossums round the bend fronting Sindatur’s abode. ‘Sindatur, the Magistrate leaves our Guild and La’Sage’s to your guidance. He must remain at the Council Chambers with Ox’Ana to protect the rest of the Village People. Distribute these Crystal Scepters so you may stay in contact with him, as well as the rest of the Warrior and Magic Guilds.” The first Owl declared.
At that moment, one of the Crystals lit up and began to hum. Sindatur reached forward with his wing and waved it over the top of the scepter. An image of the Magistrate shot out in a burst of light, “Good Luck my people. Protect what is ours, and follow Sindatur’s guidance,” the image pleaded.
Sindatur instructs the Warriors and all the Wizards, along with their Apprentices to join Ah’Friel on the front lines.
Ah’Friel commands Jy’Mee and Dolpher to join minds. They join hands, gaze into each other’s eyes and feel the now familiar sensation of racing into the other’s thoughts. Gently pressing his thoughts amongst theirs, Ah’Friel sends, “Yes young ones, you have a strong mental bond. We dared not hope you would come so far, so quickly. You are sending too much however, too widely. Focus now on only reading each other, rather than trying to take your whole mind in. Focus on only each other’s minds, and mine, specifically. Do not try so hard to broadcast.” Just then La’Sage’s party arrived. The breeze turns to an unnatural cold, the stench of 1000 years of rotting death fills the air. ‘The Necrots approach, we must prepare ourselves. La’Sage and Ortho disperse your guild.. Bray’Mon and Day’Na take your apprentices and join the Warriors. Take these Crystal Scepters with you.” Turning to Corian, a descendant of Delphia’s he said, I need you and your apprentice Jor’Tek to remain with me.
Sindatur, Ah’Friel, La’Sage and the rest notice that the Crystals ignite and The Magistrate appears in a burst of light, Ox’Ana shadowing him. “The Necrots advance just beyond the trees, my People, Prepare yourselves for what is to come. We know not what lays
beyond, but we know it’s stronger than what we now face. Take Sindatur’s guidance as my word, follow his every command, no matter how wrong your experiences may tell you
he is. Sindatur knows, and Sindatur is our only salvation. Follow him my people”, The Magistrate commanded as his image faded from the air, Ox’Ana’s eyes showing the confidence in the decision.
As the Necrots approach ever closer, the unnatural coldness of the air increases, as does the stench riding the wind. Dolpher and Jy’Mee notice the emptiness of the advancing souls when they reach out with their minds. Their pulses race as their hearts pound and sweat drips from their brows. Their steps unsteady and unbalanced.
“Apprentices! Feel the cold in the air, smell the emptiness in it. Reach just beyond those trees and feel the unnatural emptiness amongst the movements. Look young ones, there along that tree line. See the movement? Prepare yourself.”
Dolpher, Jy’Mee, and Ah’Friel have the perfect mind meld. Unfortunately Dolpher and Jy’Mee aren’t balancing reality with the mental connection.
Dolpher sees the Necrots advancing in his mind, as if seeing through the Master’s eyes. Trying to focus his eyes in the real world, Dolpher sees reflected enemies approaching. Taking a defensive stance, Dolpher begins to shake, the air feels warm, and his eyes tunnel with no focus. A Necrot thrusts a sword and Dolpher topples over, Jy‘Mee screams in horror. (He’s OK, but Ah’Friel needs to tell them to let loose of the mind meld and focus on the enemy in front of him) Dolpher disconnects his mind and thrashes everything that comes at him.
I Never Fail To Be Astounded By The Things We Do For Promises - Ronnie James Dio (All The Fools Sailed Away)
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?
Remember, everytime you drag someone through the mud, you're down in the mud with them
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain
Where are we going...and... WHY are we in a handbasket?