Honor's Way

By Jean E. Dvorak

Magic abounds as two Masters of Magic confront the River’s caprices on the way to the altar. Even true love struggles to conquer fate, human failings, and dangerous forces allied with the dark intent of the Black Dragon. Three stories unite in the epic tale of Magiskeep as Jamus and Salene long for a happy marriage. "Master of the Clouds" is the bittersweet tale of a lonely young boy whose dreams exceed the power of Magic itself. In "Vows" a vengeful Sorceress allies with the Shadows to destroy Jamus’ happiness. A powerful royal foe challenges Jamus and Salene in "Everafter." Join Jamus in the second book of "The Saga of Magiskeep."

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jean E. Dvorak
• Release date: Mar 30, 2015
• ISBN: 9781942481041

Jean E. Dvorak

Jean E. Dvorak is a retired high school teacher. An avid horsewoman, she rode and competed in hunter/jumpers and eventing with her horse Russell R. for many years. Then she focused on dressage and competed and trained two horses to FEI level. No longer competing, she still trains her horses and those experiences are evident in the novels where horses play a significant role. Romance and mystery are important elements in all her novels "Fantasy writing is very liberating. It allows the writer complete control of the world. Where else can magic exist and anything at all can happen? The writer makes the rules and can take the story anywhere imagination allows. But every good story needs a little mystery and romance as well to engage the reader and connect to human emotion." "The Magiskeep Saga," is her epic fantasy series which includes five full novels and several shorter novelettes. Ms. Dvorak has also written a number of stage musicals, plays, and vocal musical pieces, all of which have been performed locally in New Jersey, where she lives.

Book preview

Chapter 2

The sun was shining brightly in the western sky, warm and inviting in the first days of Greenmonth. On the green hill beyond the stables, eighteen Magicians lay, sprawled on their backs arms waving now and again, pointing up at the puffy white clouds up above.

In the center of the group, Jamus listened to every word the children around him said and answered every question as carefully as if he were talking to Master Mages intent on learning the deepest secrets of the River.

Why do the clouds change like that? Sivia asked.

High up in the sky, the winds blow, Jamus replied. They may be like the wind we feel down here or, because they are so far away, they may be very different. The wind pushes the clouds and because they’re made of mist, they change, just like the fog does on the lake.

How do you know that? Jarien asked, tilting his head from the crook of his elbow to look at Jamus. Have you ever touched one?

I can bring one down if you want me to, Jamus replied. It wasn’t something he’d ever really tried before, but as he had so often learned, everything was worth at least one try.

To his surprise, Jarien was skeptical, How can I be sure it’s one from up there? he said, pointing at a cluster of billowing white. Maybe you’d make an illusion.

Jamus sat up and shrugged, Point to the one you want and I’ll get it for you. Anything, he decided again, was worth a try.

That one, Jarien pointed, the one with the big fat nose.

Magiskeep’s Master uttered one quick prayer to the Hand and reached for the River.

Clear blue water met his fingers, cool and fresh, crystal clear with promise. For some reason, he felt no need to seek the deeper waters of the Magic, sensing an answer here, on the surface, where the sunlight danced in sparks of gold upon the gentler currents.

Something stirred, tracing a lazy circle in the flow, spinning upward. Jamus saw the air itself meet the meet the moisture in a breathless kiss exploding in a silver mist so much like Whim he almost called the stallion’s name.

But instead, two wingtips appeared, shimmering a rainbow in the sun and then, the Dragon’s great head broke the surface and two mirrored eyes pierced into his heart.

Why be fly? the Dragon hissed.

Jamus started, unsettled by the sight, I need a cloud for Jarien, he answered more uncertainly than he would have expected. Something was inexplicably unnerving here.

Boy call?

No, I called. Not you, surely. This is no deed for a Dragon.

Boy call, the Dragon repeated—not a question. You make voice. He dream. It be good. No Magic grow if no be dream.

I don’t understand, Jamus said, puzzled by the Dragon’s words.

Boy dream too big for man. Man ears too full of it is so. To man, cloud come. To cloud, boy come. Dragon do for man. Boy do for boy.

Jamus shook his head, The boy can’t go to the cloud. It’s impossible.

The Dragon smiled, See? Man ears too full of it is so. Cloud come to man. The creature lofted into the air, its great wings beating a wind down upon them all as the heavy weight of Magic fell in the meadow in a dense, white fog

You did it, Jarien whispered in awe as the mist dropped about them. His eyes had been riveted on the sky, locked on his cloud and he had seen it fall to Jamus’ hand even as the Master Magician was shaking his head in denial. The boy leapt to his feet and spread his arms wide in the cooling mist, trying for all he was worth to grab a bundle of it into his embrace.

And it was the cloud, surrounding them, enclosing them in white billows. Jamus simply stared as the thick moisture soaked into his clothes, affirming its reality. He had hardly even asked, his call to the River a mere thought, a wish, perhaps, no more. It was Jarien who’d wanted the cloud, not him, and the Dragon had asked about the boy. But it had been Jamus’ hand the River had answered, his Will it obeyed, defying every law the Masters taught. And why the Dragon? Catching a cloud was a child’s request, not the Rivermaster’s need. Why should such a small voice raise the creature of the Great Circle’s end from its selfish slumber? Why should such power answer something so insignificant?

Jamus rocked forward on to his knees and dropped his head in sudden exhaustion, as if he himself had flown up to the heavens to clutch the prize and bring it to the earth. All he could hear were the Dragon’s words, echoing inside his head, Man ears too full of it is so. How could he have forgotten so soon?

*******

Have you completely lost your mind? Joria asked for at least the third time since she had begun her conversation with Jamus about the children. My Lord, surely you have better things to do with your talent than teach a class of Novites. It is simply not done.

Jamus had always respected the gray robed Mistress of Illusion. Ever since he’d taken Mastery of the Keep he’d sought her advice. But this time, he regretted it. The last thing he’d wanted was a lecture and certainly not one so vehement. I was hoping you’d support me in this, Mistress. Don’t you want the children well educated?

We might as well use a tark to guard the grain bins from rodents as let you teach the little ones Magic, My Lord. You have never been one for a subtle touch on the River, as I recall.

I understand the simple spells, he replied.

And when have you ever used one? You call the River and the ocean replies. Just how many times have you told me the Dragon has answered you, eh? You’ll have the children fleeing in terror in no time.

I am not Sagari, Jamus said quietly.

Joria paused, remembering all too well how the Golden Sorcerer had terrified Jamus with Master’s Magic for so many circles, No, you are not, My Lord, but neither are you wise in the understanding of children. Your own childhood was stolen from you by this Keep. How can one who has never seen with the eyes of a child understand a child’s heart?

All I need to do, Jamus answered, is give them all the things I never had.

Joria’s heart lurched. You’ll need someone to take care of them when they’re not in your class. A new Mistress of Novites?

I have someone in mind, Jamus said, smiling slightly. She is not a Master of Magic, but she is a master nonetheless.

How soon can you bring her? Midmeal is nearly over and the children will need someone soon.

Now Jamus’ smile broadened, I think I can have her here before Norwin. Until then, I am sure a woman of your expertise can handle seventeen little ones for me.

My Lord.

I am the Master of Magiskeep, he said sweetly, leaving no room for her to doubt him. Then, he headed out the door, leaving without a chance to protest.

*******

Becca’s cottage was even prettier than the last time Jamus had visited, for the warming sun had set her flowers blooming all along the walkway and around the porch. As a boy, Jamus had never bothered to knock on the door when he visited, but as a man, he did.

Becca didn’t even notice his regal tunic as she swept him into her arms the moment she saw him, Lad, lad, ya bin far too long. An’ look at ya, no bigger ‘round the middle than a piney trunk. Ya ain’t bin eatin’ has ya?

As much as he wanted to, Jamus didn’t lie to her about having missed midmeal by talking to Joria, I ate at Easwin, Becca. I’ve been busy.

I ‘spect ya have, what with all them duties lordlin’s have. So set yerself down an’ have a bite o’ bread an’ some o’ me fine jaroot soup. I kin cut ya a wedge o’ golly cheese too fer ta fill in the empties in yer belly. Before he knew what was happening, a bowl of soup and a plate of bread and cheese were set in front of him as she pushed him down into a chair at the table. Now et up whilst I have a good gander at ya. I ne’er tire o’ looking at ya, lad.

I came to ask a favor, Becca, Jamus said between mouthfuls of soup. It was useless to stop eating altogether to talk because then Becca would never hear a word he said. I need some help in the Keep.

Help? Now what would a Lord ‘o the Keep need from the likes o’ me?

Love, Jamus said, putting down his spoon and reaching for her hands. Love like you gave me circles ago when I was a little boy.

Ya always got that, Becca said, smiling.

It’s not for me, Becca. There are children in the Keep who need someone to care for them while they learn about the Magic.

Little Sorcers? Becca asked. I ain’t no Magicker, Jamus. I cain’t teach them naught o’ the Way.

I can teach them the Way of Magic, Jamus replied, tracing the veins in her hands with his fingers, I need someone to teach them way of people. Magicians need hearts as well as minds.

Ya gots a heart, lad. Cain’t ya share yers with the wee ones?

I never learned how, Becca. Mine been broken too many times to trust anyone else with it.

Becca clucked her disapproval, So ya ain’t got a woman yet neither?

Salene, Jamus began.

I ain’t got no invite ta a weddin’ yet. I figger maybe I wasn’t good enow ta show my face in the palace, so ya jest left me offen the guest list.

By the Blood, Becca, you know that’s not true. You’d be the very first person I’d tell.

So, what’s keepin’ ya? Ya loves ‘er, so ya tole me. An’ I hear tell ya done tried each other out under the covers already. Dint ya get along? I kin talk to ‘er iffen ya wants. Ya know, give ‘er a few pointers ‘bout what a man likes.

Jamus had thought he’d outgrown blushing by know, but Becca had a way of reducing him to age sixteen in no time, Becca, please. I really don’t think you need to interfere. Salene and I are perfectly capable of deciding on our own.

Becca put one hand on her hip and nodded knowingly, An’ the lass is waitin’ patient, I s’pose? Never says a word on it?

We talk, Jamus said uneasily.

‘Bout the weather, I reckon. An’ ‘bout doin’s in the Keep, an’ Magic, an’ horses, an’ ne’er ‘bouts the two o’ you? Bory, boy, ya never was a good’un tellin’ yer feelins. Ya always kept ‘em locked up inside yer head so’s no one could hurt ‘em too bad. Ya cain’t love without it hurtin’, child. The feelin’s so big it jest kinda pains ya ta have it. That’s why ya gots ta share it, ‘cause one soul cain’t hold it all alone. Now, she gripped Jamus’ wrist and held hard, Ya gots ta stop bein’ so scairt o’ what’s in yer heart, Jamus. I knows ya better’en most anyone an’ I seen inside. Yer pure an’ kind an’ ‘bout the best a man kin be. Why cain’t ya jest trust yerself?

I don’t know, Jamus said closing his eyes and shaking his head helplessly, I just don’t know.

Becca sighed, Ya cain’t rule a kingdom lessen ya kin rule yerself, child. Then, she slapped her palms on her lap and got to her feet, Well, I gots ta git my things together so’s I kin move up ta them grand quarters yer gonna give me in trade fer seeing those little’uns o’ yourn goes to bed on time, eh? Jest how many weeny sets o’ ears am I gonna haf ta wash behind anyhows?

Seventeen, Jamus said, pushing slowly away from the table as Becca began to wrap a few belongings into a bundle.

Bory, seventeen, she whistled. Yer gonna owe me, lad. Yer gonna owe me.

Chapter 3

Jamus sat alone in his chamber, considering the day’s events with more confusion than satisfaction. While he had resolved the crisis for the children, had had only managed to make his own situation more complicated. Teaching a class of squirming youngsters was a small feat compared to facing his own failings in far more personal matters.

Fear was a dangerous foe to a man who’d been controlled by it for so long. He’d wanted to protect Jarien from it and instead found himself once more caught in its snares.

For Becca had been absolutely right about his feelings for Salene.

Now, as the darkness of Norwin pressed into the room, he felt more lost than he ever had wandering in the Way of Mirrors, for he found the maze of his own emotions far more treacherous. He closed his eyes and didn’t even hear the door open.

Jamus? Her voice was soft, her hand gentle as it touched his arm.

The moonlight was still pale, turning the shimmering gold of her hair to silver as he looked into her face, Salene, I was thinking about you.

She smiled, I was hoping you would be. It is a beautiful night.

The weather. What had Becca said? I suppose you’ll tell me a story about the Keep next.

What?

Never mind. Someone warned me we’d talk of everything but ourselves and I was just anticipating.

You’re not making any sense. Is anything wrong? Salene asked, reaching up to brush the stray lock of hair off his forehead as she so often did.

I love you, you know, he said.

I know.

But I’m afraid of what that means. Today, Becca asked me if I’d married you yet and I didn’t have an answer as to why I hadn’t. I’ve been thinking about that.

Salene put her finger on his lips, It’s nothing to think about. If you have to think about it, then it’s not time yet. We love each other and for now, it’s enough, isn’t it?

He peered at her, trying to read her expression, even in the shadows. Something he couldn’t quite see was coloring her words, You want to marry me, don’t you?

He felt her hand shiver. I don’t know, Jamus. You’re not a man like other men. It would be simple to say yes if you were. But the River’s always there.

Damn the River! It’s me you’d marry, not the River.

She knelt beside his chair and looked up at him, her eyes dark and intent, You and I both know that’s a lie. How strong is the shield you’ve woven around your heart to seal the River’s power from touching those who touch you? Don’t tell me it’s not there now, either, for I can feel it, holding part of you away from me. Even when we’re in bed together, you twist the threads to hold the tides in check.

I can’t let it seduce you, Salene. It’s not me you’d love then.

Jamus, don’t you understand? It’s part of you and if I love you then I must learn to love all of you--your River and all the pain it’s going to bring us both.

Jamus shook his head, I can’t let it hurt you.

Don’t you see? It already has. She gripped his hands, struggling to make him feel her words as much as hear them, Magic is my rival, Jamus, and as long as we’re together, I’m going to have to deal with that. She gives no quarter where you’re concerned, and I’m afraid, so afraid she has plans for you neither one of us is going to like.

I don’t have to do her bidding—not if I’m her master.

Then tell that to Kala, she said, dropping her hands to her knees. Oh, Jamus, I know you loved her and I know you still do, even as you love me. Yet Magic forced you to send her away.

She is a Seer. She couldn’t live here, among Magicians.

And you couldn’t live in her world, among mortals. Magic drove her away and left us together.

So that’s it, then, Jamus said, reaching out to stroke her silken hair. If you have to share my heart, then you don’t want any of it.

A tenth of it would be enough for me if you wanted me to have it, she said softly. I love you, Jamus of Magiskeep, and the River and Kala and the hundred other women who have yet to love you will just have to put up with it.

A hundred?

Well, fifty, maybe, Salene said, her fingers working on the belt of his tunic. I suppose it depends on how long you keep your good looks.

Age is relative, where Sorcerers are concerned, he said, leaning closer to her. We can choose to look any age at all, you know.

And keep our bodies at the peak of perfection, she replied, finally pulling the belt from his waist and slipping her hand beneath the velvet to caress his skin. This offers many opportunities for Sorcerers to grow well acquainted with each other.

And so does this, Jamus said, sweeping her into his arms as he got up and headed for the bed. Perhaps we should continue this discussion on a more personal level.

It’s always better than talking, Salene said as he laid her on the coverlet. Then, she pulled him down to her and silenced him with her lips.

Some things were better left unsaid between them.

*******

Norwin reached its peak and passed into the quiet of the late hours, when the world was still and even the prowling tark had settled in its den. Outside, the moon hung low, its beams full in the window now, casting white rays all across the chamber floor.

Jamus lay, half-waking as Salene slept peacefully at his side. His mind was no more settled than it had been spans before and their lovemaking had only troubled him in the end. Salene had been right. As much of himself as he gave her, he had kept part locked behind the silvren shield, holding her back from the deepest of his being. Had he forgotten how to live without wards and spheres to keep the world out? Was the Magic so potent in his soul that he dared not set it free, even for the woman he loved?

Magic, her rival? And Kala? When he thought of the beautiful Seer, he ached inside. But how could that be? He loved Salene. It was almost as if he were two men, caught inside one skin, like a shadow caught in the Way of Mirrors, reflecting over and over upon itself until it had so many faces the true one was lost to itself.

But Salene said she understood, even if he didn’t. How easy it would be to slip into her explanation and her arms to forget reasons or logic. But the Dragon always hovered nearby, its great wings ready to unfurl at his request; its silver eyes two mirrors where he could see his own face staring back at him.

Jamus started at the light touch on his arm. His eyes flew open to meet two bright discs shimmering in the moonlight. Mirrored eyes, silver. He shook his head, clearing the dreams away as he heard the timid whisper, Master Jamus? Why can’t I fly?

Jarien? Jamus replied softly, his brow furrowing with concern, What are you doing here? It’s late. You should be asleep.

I had a picture in my head. It woke me up.

Slowly and carefully, so as not to wake Salene, Jamus sat up, pulled his robe from the bedpost, slipped it on, and slid out of bed. He crouched down in front of Jarien to speak face to face, Did you have a nightmare?

Jarien shook his head slowly, No. But the picture wouldn’t go away. I was in the cloud and the ground was all way below. I held my arms out just like this, he spread his arms to the side, and the wind felt so good under them. All I had to do was lean and I’d go wherever I wanted.

Sometimes, when we sleep, Jarien, our minds think of all the things we’d like to do. Then, because it’s all dark and cozy, we can’t see the real world around us, so we can shut it away and make our own brand new pictures of what we really want.

Is that like Magic?

A little, Jamus said. But in real Magic, we can only make pictures of things that can really happen. Then, when we make the pictures strong enough and perfect enough, Magic comes and makes them as real as we need them to be.

Like an Illusion? Jarien asked.

Jamus laughed softly, Yes, like an Illusion, or like a Transformation too, when something really does change.

His knees aching a little, Jamus straightened, took the boy’s hand and led him over to the chair by the window. There, he sat as Jarien considered for a moment. Then, if I thinks real hard about flying, and do it real perfect, I should be able to.

Jamus held out his arms and Jarien let him lift him to his lap, Magic doesn’t work quite that way, I’m afraid. Magicians can’t make the Magic work on themselves.

But Mistress Joria is hundreds of circles old and she’s still pretty.

Illusion is like clothes the Magician puts on himself. Besides, our bodies aren’t like mortal men. You know they’re made of some of the Magic itself.

Jarien nodded, That’s why when Magicians die they disappear.

And how do you know about that? Jamus asked, thinking that a child so young really had no need to think about such things.

Mistress Sonya told us. She said if we was bad she’d make us disappear like that, Jarien made an attempt to snap his fingers. She said then nobody’d remember us and we’d be gone, so she wouldn’t have to take care of us no more.

Jamus sighed, That was a mean thing to say to you.

Jarien snuggled closer to Jamus’ chest, She scared me. She said I couldn’t do Magic good enough to stay here. She said when they found out, they were gonna throw me out into the Rim. She said my Mam didn’t want me and nobody here would want me either when they found out how no good I was at Magic.

I’d never let that happen to you, or to anyone.

You didn’t even know I was here.

Jamus combed his fingers through the boy’s dark curls as Jarien leaned his head on the older man’s chest. I know you’re here now, and I promise, I won’t send you away, no matter how well you work the Magic.

Even if I can’t fly?

And even if you can, Jamus replied tucking the edges of his robe around Jarien’s thin shoulders. He could feel the boy’s breathing deepen as he drifted off to sleep, and Jamus stared out at the setting moon for a long time, remembering his own young nights when there were no strong arms to comfort him.

Jarien was right. If he’d never wandered into the garden, Jamus would not have known about him and Sonya would still be tormenting the children with her lies and threats. How many children would have been scarred while he had walked in the Master’s Hall’s oblivious to their misery? How was he any better than Sagari in the end? The Golden Sorcerer had stolen his childhood and now, he was letting his own ignorance steal dozens more.

As Easwin, he was going to do something about it.

He settled back in the chair and closed his eyes.

The Dragon’s wings seemed to stroke the moon, polishing its face until it shone like a silvren mirror. The great beast grinned and the bright disc reflected back a little boy smile full of wishes. Clouds floated all around, like great soft pillows meant for giants’ beds. The Dragon flicked its tail and soared away, kicking out to toss the billows in a game of catch and scatter with the stars. Man ears too full of it is so, the creature whispered.

But Jamus was already asleep.

When Salene woke the next morning, she found them there, man and boy still sleeping in the chair. She smiled at first to see them, but then she frowned in puzzlement. Was there too much sleep left in her own eyes to see clearly? It was as if the two were really one, with Jarien looking so much like Jamus as a child that her heart lurched. The same dark hair, and the same face she remembered peeking out at her from behind the hay bales in the barn when they had played at seek and find before her father had forbidden their games. But that was circles ago, when they were still both children, when the River had only been a story.

She rubbed her eyes and shook her head, denying flights of imagination for more sensible reality. She’d seen Jarien more than once with the other Novites, bustling along in the halls behind Mistress Sonya. The woman had disciplined them into an orderly little group well practiced in hurrying from place to place in stony silence. And though she had, at first, admired the Mistress’ skill in handling children, Salene had begun to wonder whether there should have been some laughter somewhere in the lessons.

Now, seeing Jamus and the boy together, she was beginning to think the rumors she’d heard at evenmeal had been true after all. Joria had hinted that Jamus was seeking a new Mistress of Novites and said that he’d find out soon enough that being a mother to a litter of frisky pupkits was hardly the job for a man. She’d laughed, never ready to underestimate Magiskeep’s Master in any endeavor, despite Joria’s skepticism. But she wasn’t laughing now. For though Jarien looked sweet and innocent in his sleep, Jamus looked as if the night had broken his heart.

Salene swallowed back the threat of tears, finished dressing, and quietly shook Jamus’ arm to wake him, The sun’s up, My Lord.

He roused, Already? Then, he realized where he was and shrugged sheepishly, I’m sorry, about the bed, that is. You and I, I mean. I had a little problem last night.

I can see that. I didn’t know you had any such small friends here in the Keep.

I’ve taken on the Novite classes for a while. Jarien just needed a few questions answered, that’s all.

So you conduct classes at night? That’s an unusual approach to tradition. Then again, I should’ve expected something like that from you. She laughed lightly, pleased to find it easy to hide her deeper concern, You don’t have to turn the whole Keep upside down just to prove you are its new master, you know.

With Jarien still in his arms, Jamus rose, Not the whole Keep, not all at once, he said, just a little at a time. A little at a time. He lay the boy on the bed, tucked the blankets around him and with a quick wave of his hand, dressed himself in a long tunic of royal blue.

Then, he held out his arm, We’ll let him sleep for a bit, I think. He was up really late. I can send Becca up in a span to take him to firstmeal.

Becca?

Jamus nodded as Salene took his arm, I’ve given the children to the woman I love second best in all of Magiskeep, he said, bowing slightly to her. "I’m hoping the one I love best will join me in the dining hall.

Chapter 4

Joria was right about one thing—a class of seventeen children was like a litter of squirming pupkits. What she was wrong about was Jamus’ ability to handle the situation. He had a keen sense of children’s needs and answered every question with an honest sincerity his students adored. The only problem was in the number of questions they asked. Seventeen mouths could ask seventeen different questions all at the same time and then ask seventeen more on totally unrelated topics and instant later. If there was one thing about children that Jamus learned, it was that satisfying their endless curiosity was an impossible task.

But why, MasterJamus, round faced little Jillis asked running his name together into one word in her haste to get his attention, why, don’t Magicians just use Magic to do everything?

For once, curly headed Samod followed up on the same topic, Magic kin do anything, so why does Magicians work at all?

Miracle to be, Seran seemed intrigued by the same idea, You could sit and just wave your hand and get whatever you want, so why shouldn’t you?

By now, Jamus had set a signal for silence in the room whenever he needed it, so he put his hand on his shoulder and the children quieted to hear his answer, Even Magicians need the satisfaction of doing things for themselves. Magic would be easier, I know, but it certainly isn’t as much fun as work.

Seventeen pairs of eyes widened in disbelief. My Mam hates to work, Jerone said with a frown.

Papa says work makes him real tired, Samod agreed, nodding repeatedly.

Work’s not fun, Jillis said firmly. You’re wrong.

Now there was a gasp, for even the youngest in Magiskeep knew better than to challenge the Master.

Jamus merely smiled. I can prove it is. And I can teach you why Magician like to work sometimes, he said. Tomorrow, we will all go to the village, and I’ll show you.

The village? Jarien asked. Mistress Sonya said we must never go to the village. She said there was bad things there ‘cause no one liked the Magic.

Jamus sighed again, as he too often did at the mention of Sonya’s name, People in the village don’t use much Magic, that’s all, Jarien. The village is where people who aren’t skilled enough to learn Magic here in the Keep like to live. Haven’t you ever visited there at all?

Nearly all seventeen heads shook in unison. We wasn’t allowed, Samond replied. We was s’posed to keep our eyes on the floor and walk quiet through the Keep until we was werz….werthy of attention, he finished, screwing up his face to get the words just right.

So that explained the way the class always marched along behind him to midmeal, and why the adventure in the meadow to look up at clouds had been so exciting. Jamus recalled far too easily his own gaze locked on the floorstones when he was a boy trying not to be noticed. For all and good, these children deserved something better. The wind is ready to change, he said, getting up from the stool where he’d been sitting, and we are all going down to the Dining Hall. On the way, I want each one of you to say ‘hello’ to every person you see and touch at least one tapestry on the wall. When you get to the Dining Hall, anyone who can tell me the color of every vase we pass on the way will have an extra helping of surlep pudding at the end of the meal. Now, on your feet. Eyes open, heads up, and don’t you dare let me see anyone of you counting cracks in the floor!

The parade to the Dining Hall that Easwin was a noisy, giggling splendid adventure which ended with seventeen extra helpings of pudding being dished out by laughing cooks in the kitchen who, until that day, had no idea there was a bright pink vase tucked away in a little alcove under the stairs to the Great Library.

*******

Ever since he had been a child, Jamus had visited the craftsmen of the village around Magiskeep. Now, once he had left the children in the Dining Hall, he headed for the cobbled streets in search of allies.

Saraban owned a carpentry shop in the south of the village. A mage of moderate skill, he had tested in the Keep himself as a child and passed the tests with enough success to be accepted into the Novite classes. But, Magic did not interest him enough for him to put any effort into his lessons. Finally, on the advice of several Masters, his parents took him back to the village where he apprenticed with a master furniture maker until he was old enough to open his own shop. Now he was one of the Keep’s most respected craftsmen.

Jamus knew him well for it was Saraban who had fashioned a carved chest for his room when, as a boy, he needed a place to store his treasures. The woodworker had let Jamus polish the finish himself and screw the clasps in place. The chest still sat beside Jamus’ bed and often he would run his fingers over its smooth wood to remind himself of the value of a man’s hands over Magic’s.

This was the lesson he hoped to teach his seventeen charges, but first he needed to get Saraban to help. As soon as he stepped into the shop, his mind flooded with memories. The scent of rich wood oils filled his nostrils and he sighed with old content, as the fragrance mixed with the flavor of brellumwood and cedar. There was a half-finished chair up on the worktable, with ornately carved legs nearly ready for sanding, and near it, lay some wooden slats being readied for some other piece. Three small tables, their wood still pale, were stacked against the left wall, and to the right a bedstead with a deep brown finish awaited its final polish. Master Saraban? Jamus called towards the back rooms. Master? I need a word with you.

Saraban poked his graying head out from behind a curtain, Me Lord! Why if it isn’t Me Lord Jamus come to visit an old man! What kin I do for you, Sur? A new chair for the Keep, or perhaps a chest for new treasures?

I wish it were a simple thing, Jamus replied, grinning despite himself. But I’ve come to ask a larger favor, I’m afraid, and one which may prove quite an imposition.

Speak it, lad, Saraban said, emerging from the room with a baby’s cradle in his hands. Your asking is all you’ll ever need to gets the world from me, you knows that. I ne’er met a finer lad than you, Me Lord, and what I have is ever yours.

I have children.., Jamus began.

Wee ones? So soon? Lad, I know you is precocious, but I hardly expected this.

No, no, Jamus said quickly, these are Novites, students in the Keep I’ve just taken charge of, that’s all.

Bory, lad, I should hope, I should hope, Saraban said, putting the cradle on the table and fanning himself with his hand. A full foot shorter than Jamus, he peered up at his Lord’s face and smiled wickedly. Though I would expect you to be working on a little one of your own by now with that pretty lass you’re known to be sweet on. The village has a titch of wagering going on how long it’s gonna take you to don the wedding bands, you know. I laid a deneret or two on Warmmonth come next, in case you wanted to know, the old man winked broadly. Not to rush you or anything, but the Sevenstins been passing. They been passing.

Jamus felt the blush creeping up his neck again. Why was it always a villager who could crush his self-composure when he had stood up to princes and never faltered? And so the Sevenstins pass, he said, trying to sound casual. Princes spoke of formality, villagers spoke from the heart. I’ve made no decisions on marrying anyone yet, Saraban. When I do, I’m sure the village will know before I even have time to make an announcement.

Right so, lad, Saraban laughed, reaching up to slap Jamus on the back, s’long as it’s afore the crops is in, eh? The old man nearly doubled over with laughter. Then, he worked his face straight and said, So what is it you want from an old man then?

I…uhm, well, for a moment Jamus had actually forgotten why he’d come. A fine thing, he thought, for the Lord of the Keep to be too flustered by discussion of his personal life to remember his duty. The children, of course, I have seventeen Novites in the Keep who can’t understand why a Magician would ever want to do work when Magic can replace it with no effort at all.

Oh ho, Saraban exclaimed, quickly growing serious again, A worthy task, me Lord. When I was a lad, I asked myself the same question and here I am, hammering and nailing ‘stead of spelling, and I’m as happy as a duskit in the veggie rows.

That’s why I came to you, Saraban, Jamus said. I thought you might have some little project the children could work on so they’d find the enjoyment of creating something with their own hands.

Saraban clucked, Well, I can’t fit seventeen little’uns in here, but I do have five of these, he pulled out a small wooden box from under the counter. They’re right waiting for a polish or two and maybe even a nice little clasp. I kin work up two more by tomorrow, but that will only take care of seven. Me apprentice and me kin handle seven right well enow, I think.

Good, Jamus said. I was going to ask Josius to help me out as well. If he can take a few and Mistress Doria the rest, I think I can teach the lesson in an Easwin or two.

Josius, the potter across Crafts Square agreed to take six children providing Jamus would consider proposing to Salene before planting, and Doria, the baker agreed to handle the remaining four, reminding Jamus that her money was bet on Seremonth, so he had a while to think about it.

With a sigh of relief, Magiskeep’s Master fled the streets, hurrying past well wishers for fear of hearing the deadlines for their wagers, and made his way back to the relative safety of the stables. There, he found Jarien bouncing in wait for his next riding lesson.

Tupper’s all brushed, the boy said excitedly, and Master Josep helped me put on the saddle and bridle. I cleaned his feet all by myself while Master Josep was getting Whim ready for you. You said we were going to ride in the meadow today. I hope Tupper can keep up with Whim of we go fast. I like to go fast sometimes, don’t you? Master Josep said Whim can run like the wind. He said Tupper is a good little pony now that I’m taking care of him. I’d like…

Jamus raised his hand to his shoulder and the boy fell suddenly silent. We will go to the meadow, Jarien, and Whim will be very careful so you can keep up. Now bring Tupper out here so I can check your girth before you get on.

The boy scurried into the stable, pausing only to swing aside so Josep and Whim could pass. A fine lad, that, Josep said, smiling in approval. He brushed so hard Tupper’s fair shining like th’ sunshine. I think Whim’s a mite jealous what without havin’ no master carin’ fer him like that.

Jamus took the stallion’s reins from the old man as Whim dived into his tunic, searching for the surlep candy his master always brought him. Whim will never be jealous, Josep. He knows he belongs to me.

That’s a sure thing, Josep agreed, grinning.

Jamus checked the stallion’s bit and snugged up the girth on the saddle. Then, with his gaze never leaving the horse, he asked, Josep, have you made any wagers in the village lately?

Josep coughed, Me Lord?

Wagers, Josep. I understand there’s been some money being laid down on Keep matters and I was wondering what you might know about it.

Josep cleared he throat and chuckled, Well, me Lord, jest say I stand ta increase me wealth a fair share iffen ya and the Lady Salene takes the vows afore the corn’s ripe.

I see, Jamus said, leaning his forehead against Whim’s neck. I hope you didn’t risk too much money.

Lessee, amongst me, Jeamel an’ Becca we’re in fer a hunnert denerets or so. Ain’t bad, I reckon, considerin’ we gots an advantage. After all, Becca’s the one what’s taught ya ‘bouts women in the first place.

Jarien’s return with his pony could not have been more timely. It gave Jamus something to do with his hands which, for one of the few times in his life, were actually considering some sort of violence.

*******

The meadow was already green with the warmth of the new season, and long stemmed flowers of red, yellow, and purple dotted the hills. Whim tossed his head, eager for a long run, but seemed to know the little pony at his side was more important and kept his enthusiasm checked with little need for his rider’s correction.

If we wanted to go all the way over there, Jarien said, pointing to the distant slopes of the Rim, how long would it take us?

All day, Jamus replied, unless we lifted the horses’ strides.

What’s that?

Magic, Jamus said. If I know where I’m going, I can use my Magic to put Whim there, and since I’m riding him, I go along.

Do you fly?

In a way, I suppose, but when you move, you move through the River, not the sky, so all you see are flashes of gold all around.

How far can you go?

Here, Jamus paused. He himself had once lifted all the way across Magiskeep to the Rim’s heart. He supposed, if he had a clear image of the gate to Aberdal, Turan’s capital city in the west, he might even be able to lift there. I don’t really know, Jarien. Like all Magic, I can only use as much as I can Comprehend.

But you can’t fly.

No. I can’t fly. Why is that so important to you?

Jarien shrugged, ‘Cause everybody says I can’t.

A good enough reason, Jamus thought. Certainly no more or less than the first Magician who ever set foot upon Turan must have had the same thoughts. It was only after time that the River’s limits had been found and Sorcerers learned there were limits to possibilities. Some men, Jamus finally said aloud, say that Magic’s only limits are the Mage’s Will.

So if I believed enough, I could?

Fly? Jamus asked, looking down at the boy. According to all the laws I’ve ever heard, no. But the River Wills as the River Wills, Jarien. I’d be lying if I said anything was impossible, just as I’d be lying if I told you I believed it was possible.

Jarien sighed heavily and patted his pony’s neck, Tupper’s almost as good as flying, I guess. Magic is so hard.

Jamus laughed, It only seems that way. I remember when I first learned my lessons in the Keep how complicated everything was. There were so many rules and so many things I had to learn. Be patient. The Magic will come to you when it’s time. How he wished someone had told him that when he was a boy, instead of endlessly lecturing about Rule and Vow. When Magic had flowed unbidden to his hand, he’d been chastised for recklessness, confusing the matter even more. You need to understand, Jarien, that the River answers each of us in its own way. Your Masters will teach you the ways they understand, but in the end, it will be up to you to find the best way to make the River answer your call.

So it’s all right to break the rules?

The little ones, yes, but never the Rule itself. You must never use Magic to gain power over anyone else unless it’s truly to help them. Magic is the Power, none other need be sought…

If deeds for such a need be done, then deeds had best be deeds undone, Jarien finished the ancient admonition of Rule and Vow for him. "But I can use Magic for anything