The Salem Concord Book 1: Interview for a Wizard

By J. A. Areces

On Halloween night, unsuspecting visitors at one of the greatest vacation spots in the world are about to be scared to death.
Jesse Alexander, an 18-year-old recent high school graduate, accepts a job in a small, costume store, in Mt. Dora. It was the perfect job in the perfect laid back, little town. On his own for the first time, he is looking forward to being able to relax in the calm and quiet of his new surroundings and seriously consider the direction of his future.
Working at Alivan’s Wizards and Witches Corner Store was uneventful. It was the ideal position. He was the only employee, and his only encounters with his boss were via email or instant message.
However, with only seven days before Halloween, Jesse finds himself sucked into a race against time and wizardry.
The Secret Society of Seven Sorcerers is missing one of its elite members and is in the process of seeking a replacement -- one truly worthy member for its inner circle of elders.
A dangerous and mad wizard has escaped from prison, murdered everyone that can identify him and is interviewing for the coveted membership position in the Society.
Beifar Mahgo, Special Agent from the Department of Magical Investigations is in pursuit of the elusive demented wizard, and all clues lead to Jesse.
Jesse’s encounter with the Special Agent disrupts his peaceful existence and forever changes his view of reality and normalcy. With the threat of being framed for murder, and the lives of thousands threatened with imminent annihilation, Jesse is thrust into the midst of the mission to apprehend the crazed wizard and teams up with agent Mahgo.
Jesse Alexander must believe in himself, trust in the unimaginable and face the unexplainable. However, in the world of magic, nothing is ever what it seems.

• Language: English
• Publisher: J. A. Areces
• Release date: Feb 22, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311406279

J. A. Areces

Husband, father, and worker by day, however at night just your ordinary creative guy.I'm an art major, and I enjoy creating.So, when I was asked to write a book, I jumped at the challenge, and wrote four; The Salem Concord Series.I am not a professional writer, but I am a wizard of imagination. It seems like I just can't stop. I hope this explains how I came up with the four books.I trust you enjoyed Interview for a Wizard; Book 1 of the Salem Concord. It was the introduction to the series. The Secret Society of Seven Sorcerers continues the adventures of Jesse Alexander into the dark world of the Seven Sorcerers. New characters are introduced, and there's plenty of magic. Please follow me on Facebook; j. a. areces , or Twitter; @jarecesHere are some wonderful comments on the podibook version:Jacob Poore � @jpoorexi Mar 31Just finished the Salem Concord series by @jareces. What a great story. I'm glad I chose this series to listen too. the Salem concord is one of the best and favorite I've heard. Took me 6 days to listen to all 4.P. hernandez Says:January 6th, 2008 at 10:47 pmIve been downloading various books from this website for a while now and this ones really gotten me hooked. Sure you have your normal wizard in human society stories but the way the author has this book set up will really grab you. I look forward to the next chapter.Michael Says:January 27th, 2008 at 11:23 pmI just wanted to comment about what a good story this is. I am really enjoying it. I listen to a lot of audiobooks and podcasts, but when I see that a new episode of Interview for a Wizard has dropped...all other listening obligations get postponed. I like the story and the reading. Excellent work, Mr. Areces!Dan Says:January 4th, 2009 at 5:19 pmHey J.A.I just started listening to this book and am loving it. look forward to jumping right in to SSSS as soon as I am finished. Great Job!

Book preview

The Salem Concord

Book 1

Interview for a Wizard

by

J. A. Areces

Edited by

The Editing Wizard Co.

The Salem Concord

Book 1

Interview for a Wizard

J. A. Areces

Published by J. A. Areces

Smashwords Edition

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only and may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person,please purchase an additional copy. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your

favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author and for your support.

Any resemblance to actual events or locals or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Any trade or trademarked names used in this story remain the property of their respective owners.

All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 2014, by J. A. Areces.

Miami, Florida USA

February 1778

February, 1778, heavy military boots plowed through the dense snow that covered everything. The grey sky reflected General George Washington’s feelings. Valley Forge was more disheartening then anything he could have imagined. He moved the Continental Army into winter quarters on the Schuylkill River as winter approached. However, hunger lead to disease and inevitable despair. The good general was running out of time -- food was scarce; wartime training was sorely needed; men were deserting; death tolls kept increasing; and approximately 12,000 men were expecting him to lead them to victory. The tide was turning against him but desperate times called for desperate measures.

General Washington finally stopped. He could see the encampment at the bottom of the hill. Small fires that failed to keep the soldiers warm littered the area. Valley Forge was purposely selected for the high ground and position making it easily defendable, but that wasn’t enough to make the general feel secure. Somehow the British were always one step ahead, it seemed they always knew and were prepared for his next move. Something about the war just wasn’t right and it caused Washington to resort to the unimaginable. Making certain that no one followed, he retrieved a magnificent quilt pen from his heavy cloak. The sun was slowly dropping out of sight and the grey sky drew darker as he pierced his palm with the end of the pen until he bled.

The small clearing was engulfed with a golden hue that filled Washington with wonder, but it only lasted a brief moment. He returned to his senses by a large, brown, spotted owl that looked down upon him from a nearby tree. It hooted twice never removing its gaze from the general.

The snow fell heavy around him as Washington waited. Not far ahead, he noticed a shift between the trees as if a teardrop caused a ripple. The general stiffened. Before him stood a tall, slim man dressed in a long, blue cloak and holding a long staff in his right hand.

They said nothing to each other.

The owl hooted again, gaining the wizard’s attention.

Right, where are my manners? General Washington, I presume?

George Washington glanced at his palm as the wound miraculously healed before his eyes. He slowly returned the pen to its hiding place before addressing the man before him.

I am he, sir, and how shall I address you?

You may call me, friend, sir.

Washington paused. I do not accustom calling a stranger, friend, sir.

Understood and well said. Permit me to introduce myself, sir, I am the voice of my people, and I stand before you to serve. The wizard bowed respectfully.

You are not the King of the Witches?

The wizard smiled, Is that how you refer to the Secretary of Magic?

Secretary?

We have no king, general. We are a free people that choose our leader through an elective process. The wizard informed.

Interesting concept, sir, I wish to learn more.

The wizard smiled. It was the only part of his face that General Washington could see. The man that stood before him wore a large, blue, pointy hat with a wide brim that dropped over his eyes covering most of his face. Washington removed his hat hoping the wizard would do the same.

The owl hooted at the wizard, reprimanding him.

Where are my manners? I do so apologize. The wizard removed his hat and grinned. Long, grey hair dropped over his shoulders but his face was clean-shaven and that of a young man’s.

Washington felt less intimidated.

The Secretary of Magic apologizes and sends his regrets, but he felt that I was a better choice for the first encounter between our two peoples since the signing of the Salem Concord. He felt that I would be better at the Divulgence. Therefore, General Washington, how can we be of assistance?

The General took a deep breath as he gathered his thoughts. My men are starving, disease is spreading and supplies are low. He softly said, more to himself, like a passing thought.

The wizard turned to the owl, Send word that the Continental Army needs our assistance. They are in need of food, supplies and clothing.

The owl hooted once before taking flight.

In one month’s time, expect a delivery accompanied by Brigadier General Anthony Wayne. He will be traveling from New Jersey. The wizard turned back to the general who stood silent. He waited, allowing the general to speak. What of your soldiers, sir, how prepared are they to confront the British in battle?

Sir, I will not speak to you about my men.

General, the wizard drew closer, do you know why we accepted this encounter after almost 100 years of silence between our two peoples?

Washington didn’t answer.

The British, sir, are also our enemies. Our ancestors fled England in the first ships that sailed to the New World evading persecution. We sought freedom, sir, as you are presently. We both share the same enemy.

The general stood tall, almost at attention. How can I trust a witch?

With all due respect, general, I am not a witch.

Washington squinted.

I am a wizard. A witch is a female, of which, sir, I do not share the same attributes.

My sincere apologies, sir, for my ignorance. Washington bowed respectfully. My unfamiliarity in these matters betrays me.

Apology accepted. Now, sir, how prepared are your men for battle?

Washington didn’t answer.

Very well then, I will assume by our silence that they lack the proper military training to defeat our common foe. Therefore, sir, in three day’s time expect Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben. He is a former member of the Prussian General Staff. Receive him well and he will be a great asset to your army. Be advised that he speaks no English. Let that not be an impediment. I promise you that he will deliver the results you desire.

Washington accepted the offer graciously. The snow fell heavier covering his shoulders.

If I may, general, what of the French alliance? The wizard asked.

Washington raised a surprised eyebrow.

Master Franklin will be contacted by one of our advisors to assist. I am confident that she will be persuasive. Her beauty is irresistible. The wizard winked.

George Washington was fascinated, but never expressed it. He studied the wizard carefully; scrutinizing every move and gesture.

However, that is not why you requested this meeting? The wizard asked. Something much more pressing brings you before me? Pray tell, general, what troubles you that causes a man of your stature to sneak into this hidden place to consult with me?

Sir, I fear that I have made a grave mistake.

The wizard was taken by surprise.

I have entered a realm completely foreign to myself. I was a fool to think that I possess the courage to face one such as yourself, a wizard. My pride has taken the best of me. I now do not know if you are a demon or an angel. I do not trust my better judgment. I regret that I have taken your time.

The wizard feared the opportunity to assist the general’s cause slipping away and reacted by slowly drawing even closer to Washington. General, sir, your reputation as an honest man does not do you justice. It is my humble pleasure to have the chance to meet you, and the loss of time is mine, sir, if I do not at the very least try to aid you in what causes you a heavy heart. Please grant me that one favor, and if I am unsuccessful, I will take my leave and I promise you, sir, that you will not remember me nor this encounter.

Night overtook Valley Forge and the two men were nothing more than shadows in the snow covered clearing. Washington reached into his coat and retrieved a wrinkled, folded paper that he held out to the wizard. Slowly, the wizard approached and took the paper.

May I read it?

The general nodded.

The wizard let the staff stand on its own as he waved his hand over the tip. A soft, blue light filled the clearing causing Washington to gasp. The wizard paid no attention as he carefully unfolded the paper.

Then he paused taken aback.

Our spies discovered these weapons in the possession of our enemy. They were smuggled in through New York and are now scattered throughout the thirteen colonies. Washington paused as the wizard glanced back at the paper.

A rough, pencil sketch revealed a large crystal ball suspended by seven malevolent dragonheads.

It appears that these enchanted objects are a sort of messaging weapon. It was, I believe, how General William Howe defeated us in Philadelphia and Germantown. They know our every move. As long as the British have these weapons, we will never win the Revolution.

Are these crystal balls manipulated by Wizardry? The wizard asked.

Witches.

How many?

We only found seven. The general quickly responded. Their locations are written below. I lost two good men trying to retrieve this information.

The wizard folded the paper. May I keep it?

The general nodded. Do you know what they are, sir?

The wizard took his staff. Your assumption is correct, sir. They are weapons and in the British hands our Revolution is lost. Do not worry, sir, we will retrieve all seven and return them to you.

I rather you did not. Washington interjected. It goes against the terms of the Salem Concord. Alas, that kind of power in the hands of the men is dangerous.

The wizard withdrew from the general as he returned his hat to his head. When our mission is complete, I will send my owl. Know then that the time to strike is at hand.

Washington replaced his hat looking more authoritative than before. Sir, it was an honor making your acquaintance.

The honor was mine.

Godspeed, friend, Washington added.

The wizard smiled underneath his hat. Then tapped his staff on the snow covered ground and the space around him shifted.

The wizard was gone.

Chapter 1

The Graveyard Shift

This shift was called the graveyard shift. Maybe it was because it took place in the dead of the night when the ambiance is quiet and still, or maybe it was because from the bridge-house the night watchman enjoyed a clear and direct view of the old town’s graveyard. On a clear night, with the full moon illuminating the evening sky, he could easily make out most of the writing on the ancient tombstones and statues. Throughout the years, many tall tales spawned about ghosts and spirits seen roaming the graveyard. These tales became more elaborate every time a night watchman abruptly quit his post claiming to have seen or been haunted by spirits.

Old Dougie Mann refused to fall prey to such gibberish. He was proudly employed by the City as the Bridge Night-Watchman for forty-three years. He worked the graveyard shift three times a week. The days varied depending on the rotation.

Dougie made the regulated inspections and entered the bridge-house a little after midnight. As he settled in the squeaky chair behind the control panel, he complained about his sore back and pulled out a cheap bottle of cherry wine from the bottom drawer of the rusty cabinet. He leaned back after filling his coffee mug with the last of the wine and glanced out the window that overlooked the two-way drawbridge. Slowly sipping his wine, he turned on the tiny radio that rested on the windowsill and glimpsed out the open, side window that allowed him a view of the river, the distant boat yard, and the cemetery that ran up the hill disappearing into the night. For a split second he thought he saw something. There it was again - a flash of light. The surrounding statues were instantly illuminated in blue. Then the flash was gone and darkness returned.

Dougie didn’t spend any time wondering what it was. He didn’t care. Retirement was in sight and not much else held his interest. He took another sip of wine, grimaced at the bitter taste, pulled down his baseball cap and pulled up his jacket collar. The night air was chilly. October nights in a small New England town, close to the ocean, are always cold. Tonight was no exception. An old Gershwin tune that Dougie enjoyed was playing on the tiny radio that sat on the windowsill overlooking the bridge. First, he reached over to raise the volume on the radio, and then he turned to close the window to keep the night air out. There it was; another flash of light. This one was much brighter, causing him to go momentarily blind. Dougie rubbed his eyes and blinked several times. He looked out the window and saw what appeared to be two men engaged in battle.

The taller of the two men leapt up into the air swinging a long staff. It came down hard on the shorter man and smacked the wand out of his right hand. The shorter man turned in pain screaming into the night as he grabbed his wounded hand. His cloak whirled and the hood fell back to reveal an ugly face. Dougie winced. He never saw features so deformed. The man looked like he participated in knock down, kick and scratching fights all his life, and lost them all.

The ugly man lunged after the fallen wand. The other pointed his staff and shouted words that Dougie did not understand. Latin, he thought. A quick mental childhood flash of sitting in long pews attending early morning Sunday mass interrupted the fight. A burst of light blasted from the tip of the staff missing the ugly man as he reached for the wand, pointed, and shouted. Another blast and the staff flew out of the tall man’s hands. He flew through the air crashing against the small bridge-house. His tall, pointy hat floated behind him as his long, black cloak covered his body. The ugly man laughed. His gurgling could be heard from where Dougie sat. He aimed his wand at his stricken opponent, who pulled out his hand from under his cloak uttering a command. His staff obeyed and attacked. It flew from where it lay and whacked the ugly man square in the back. Dougie threw himself back in his chair and hit the other wall as the ugly man tumbled forward, crashing through the window. Broken glass flew everywhere. The ugly man struggled to break free, his hands bleeding as he grappled to regain himself, but the taller man pinned him against the broken glass and control panel. Dougie reached out and grabbed his mug, clutching it tightly against his chest.

Tell me, Nicholas! shouted the taller man, as he pushed the ugly man’s face closer to the jagged glass. Tell me where Raven is or I’ll kill you right here, right now!

One of the jagged glass shards punctured Nicholas’ cheek, as he hissed, Alivan’s! Alivan’s Wizards and Witches Corner Store!

Dougie’s thin, frail, hunched-over frame began to shake nervously. He closed his eyes and drank a large gulp from his mug.

Since when? asked the taller man. Tell me, how long has he been there?

Six months, Nicholas strived to get free only to cut himself some more.

The tall man loosened his grip. He looked shocked. Six months? I’m running out of time.

Unexpectedly, Nicholas yelled, and with all his strength pushed against the control panel and desk. His bloody hands inadvertently pressing buttons and switches which activated the drawbridge. The bells sounded and the locked arms set free as they slowly began to descend. The taller man was thrown back as Nicholas whirled himself free. He ran and found his wand. Turning, he aimed at his victim. Dougie leaned forward in his chair keenly watching the fight. The taller man jumped to his feet and found himself facing his enemy. A tiny, red laser dot trembled over his heart. The bells continued to sound as the bridge’s mechanism continued releasing locks causing the bridge to move. Nicholas leaned forward on his weapon.

You will die tonight, Beifar Mahgo, he said with a smile.

WHACK!

Nicholas looked up in disbelief. Blood poured down the center of his face, dripping at the end of his nose. The bridge arm bounced off his head. He stumbled back, eyes staring nowhere; then fell to his knees dropping the wand. The bridge began to open, and the floor underneath Nicholas gave away. Slowly, he began to slide. Beifar raced to him snatching Nicholas’ long cloak and urged Nicholas to hold on. Under his breath, Dougie also pleaded for Nicholas to hold on. There was no response from Nicholas. His body slipped through the cloak into the cold river waters.

Dougie sat breathless; nervous sweat dripping down his face. He blinked repeatedly, wiping his brow. The bells finally stopped ringing. Dougie stopped the process, but not in time. Beifar stood with his staff in hand. He looked down into the water - waiting, hoping. He finally let go of his grip, and the dark cloak that belonged to Nicholas glided onto the rushing waters below. Beifar tapped his staff on the floor. Another flash of light, and he was gone.

Dougie put his mug down. He grabbed the empty wine bottle along with the mug and threw them both out the window into the river. He walked out of the bridge-house, locked the door behind him, and resigned the next day.

Chapter 2

Sunday

The small store was located in Downtown Mount Dora and was difficult to find. It was a two-story, wooden house with a high-pitched roof, and a wrap-around porch. Large windows looked out onto the busy street and wind chimes sounded in the gentle breeze. No large sign to draw in customers or anything else to show the way, just a sun-faded, hand carved wooden sign, Alivan’s Wizards and Witches Corner Store, hung over the front door.

Jesse Alexander considered it an odd name for a costume shop, especially one that wasn’t on a corner. The store was tucked between two office buildings occupied on the street level by cute stores and outdoor cafés. The buildings brought a lot of movement to the area; its occupants and customers strolling across the small stores at all hours of the day. In the evenings, a movie theater, small cafés and ice cream shop kept the commercial square busy. However, that was not the case for Alivan’s Wizards and Witches Corner Store.

Mount Dora was a small, tourist town