The Salem Concord Book 2: The Secret Society of Seven Sorcerers

By J. A. Areces

Last year, Jesse Alexander befriended the wizard Beifar Mahgo, assisted capturing the mad Raven Claw and thwarted a sinister vicious assault on the most magnificent theme park in the world. As a result, Jesse acquired Alivan's Wizards and Witches Corner Store and Lord Bane's crystal ball. Everything couldn't be better. At least, that was what Jesse thought until the dark wizard, Nicholas Fidgewidge, returned to claim Lord Bane's crystal ball. The only way to combat magic is with magic, so Jesse's only choice was to once again seek the aid of Beifar Mahgo and unexpectedly discovers the dark world of The Secret Society of Seven Sorcerers. Meanwhile, Ana Mahgo reluctantly must stop a mysterious murderer from scaring to death the remaining sorcerers. Then when Raven Claw Fidgewidge surprisingly escapes out of jail, the adventure begins. As if matters weren't bad enough, everything gets complicated when Beifar's two teenage boys, Andrew and Brendan Mahgo, discover their father's secret. Learning that their father's a wizard and a secret agent is the least of the surprises that will change their lives forever. On Halloween night, Lord Alex will become the next Dark Sorcerer even if it means slaying everyone who learns of his initiation. Follow the wizard Beifar, his cousin Ana and Jesse into the dark world of the Sorcerers Society as they try to prevent Lord Alex from joining the Circle of Seven and achieving a higher goal, obtaining the secrets of Lord Bane’s crystal ball. On Halloween night, everything must remain a secret at any price.

• Language: English
• Publisher: J. A. Areces
• Release date: Oct 31, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370641451

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 Series

Book 2

The

Secret Society

Of

Seven Sorcerers

by J. A. ARECES

edited by Nancy Vento

Published by IND Press part of Ink ‘N Doodles Creative Workshop.

Miami, Florida USA

IND Press publishes this book as a limited edition.

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.

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 2006, by J. A. Areces.

Miami, Florida USA

I would like to dedicate this book to my family.

Everyday they bring magic into my life.

Discover other titles by J. A. ARECES:

The Salem Concord Series Book 1:

Interview for a Wizard

This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Prologue

The Seventh Sorcerer

Once upon a time, seven members of the circle of sorcerers took from seven different parts of the world seven flames from seven different dragon tribes, and with spells, chants and sacrifices fastened them into a malign inferno. The Dragon Flame was one of the greatest secrets of the society. Its solitary purpose was to select the final applicant and bind him to an oath of secrecy and loyalty, consumed by fire if breached. On Halloween night, during the Initiation Ritual, when the sorcerer and the Dragon Flame were amalgamated, the selected sorcerer accepted the insignia, seven interwoven dragons, as a testament of his oath. However, the Amalgamat required an abominable oblation.

Tongues of fire gently danced across the night. The light breeze carried the burning ash and white smoke over the surrounding trees away from the thick forest. Six sorcerers stood around the monstrous fire contained deep within a hidden clearing protected by a wall of thick, towering pine trees and several protective curses. A massive ornate stone basin housed the Dragon Flame that reached high over the shrouded sorcerers in their long dark hooded robes keeping their identities a secret. The area where they stood was cleared, many years ago, and decorated with statues of previous members. From a distance, it appeared like an isolated memorial ground dedicated to great men unknown to others. This was another concealed meeting site for the Secret Society of Seven Sorcerers.

An overwhelming sense of urgency made the atmosphere tense. Six months ago Lord Bane disappeared, and the remaining members rushed to select a new brother. As usual, this was a very daunting task. For months, they observed deeds and studied applications from proficient wizards eager to join the exclusive circle of prevailing sorcerers. The most influential and talented of the society applied. The remaining six sorcerers would choose only one. They would select the one that best benefited the society.

The selection would be finalized with magic. In the world of enchantment, important selections are finalized by magic. They are never left to chance.

The oldest of the six sorcerers stepped close to the inferno. The seven colossal dragon heads that adorned the stone basin threatened to attack as he cautiously approached. The ground shook and spewed a swirling pillar of fire up towards the heavens. He held out a rolled-up parchment that contained the name and personal information of his candidate. His hand trembled. He hesitated slightly, closed his eyes, and threw the parchment into the fire. He waited. The response was unexpected. The pain was excruciating and abrupt. He tore at his clothes while crying out in agony for assistance. The others didn’t come to his aid as the older wizard threw off his robes revealing his scorched back. The seven tattooed dragons glowed red hot. The skin blistered and bled as his body shook uncontrollably. He fell to his knees clawing at his burnt skin pleading desperately for forgiveness. Then it was over. He remained motionless dripping in sweat while he regained himself. The wounds healed immediately. He said nothing and no one spoke to him as he gathered his robes, returned to his original spot and dressed. It was evident to everyone that his candidate was rejected.

The forest was quiet again except for the sound of the churning fire.

It was another sorcerer’s turn to submit a candidate.

The fire swelled as if ready to engulf the next presenter causing several to turn away and retreat. Another elderly wizard stepped forward as he withdrew a parchment from his inside cloak pocket, but a younger taller wizard thwarted the sorcerer.

Don't fret, brother, I will submit the next candidate, he said as he moved forward with even quick steps. He held his head high and confident as he withdrew his own parchment from his inside cloak pocket. The elderly sorcerer returned to his place without an argument. The confident sorcerer approached the basin stopping only inches away, tolerating the intense heat. He gently submitted the application. The ground shook, but the confident sorcerer remained stationary as he awaited a decision.

The forest seemed trapped in time. There was no breeze; no movement in the trees and no animal dared venture near the enchanted space. All was quiet and stagnant. The inferno swirled upward resembling ballet dancers in slow movements twisting and turning to a gentle song. The clearing was filled with an eerie silence that made all the sorcerers nervous except for one. The solid stone basin engraved with strange symbols and seven sculptured dragon heads, each different from the rest, looked outward toward seven separate directions. The confident wizard stood erect with his arms at his side like the proudest soldier standing at attention. The heat from the fire caused him to sweat, his skin slowly turned red. He neither blinked nor twitched. Only his chest expanded as he breathed deeply, tolerating the furnace while anxiously waiting for a response. He tried desperately not to show the apprehension that was beginning to emerge. Stay focused!

Then, without any warning, in one spiral swoosh, the blazing inferno extinguished. A trail of smoke slowly swirled up vanishing into the trees.

The six sorcerers didn't react. They stood still in their places waiting. The confident sorcerer that stood closest to the stone basin took a long deep breath and lowered his head. With one hand he wiped his face dry, free of perspiration, and with the other pulled back on his hood. He turned around and faced his wizard brothers. He glanced from one to the other before he finally announced, My brother sorcerers, he smiled as he spoke to them, we have a new brother. The flame has selected as the seventh member of our circle…

Outrageous! cried a hooded wizard. This selection will be the downfall of our society! He stepped forward, his face hidden to all as he addressed the tall sorcerer.

Brother, we have already discussed this. The choice has been made.

I demand to be heard! the other wizard shouted. Your candidate is nothing more than a wolf in sheep's clothing. He has no family honor or pedigree...

He has proven to benefit the society with his deed.

The Sorcerer's Secret is violation of the Salem Concord. Once the Cadre is alerted, the treaty will be breached and the Witch Hunts will return.

Once we have the Sorcerer's Secret we need not worry about the Cadre ever again. The tall sorcerer smiled wickedly underneath his hood.

You don't know what you are saying. Our greed has gone too far. We risk everything. We have forgotten the principles of our society and tarnish the memory of our founders. I have allowed myself to be swayed by my lack of truth and now risk our people to war.

Maybe it's time for you to step down, brother, and allow us to choose another to take your place with the same vision that we hold.

You know well, that the only way for another to take my place is if I die.

Exactly

I suspect trickery. I suspect that the application was altered!

The explosion startled everyone. The ground shook, as the stone basin erupted. Fire violently stretched furiously roaring all the way up past the trees. Heat filled the clearing pushing the sorcerers back.

I suggest you retract your statement and beg forgiveness, the confident wizard advised his challenger, or else you’ll burn for your lack of loyalty.

The hooded wizard cowered before the inferno sinking to his knees. He cried out for mercy as the volcanic flames intensified threatening to erupt belching forth smoke and fire. Gradually he crawled back on his belly daring not to look up to his original spot.

Slowly the fire quieted returning to its original intensity. The sorcerers relaxed, and the forgiven wizard stood up without uttering a single word. The confident wizard stepped forward facing them all again.

Brothers, the newest member to our circle, he smiled conceitedly, is Lord Alex.

Then the image slowly faded as smoke whirled within the crystal ball until it gradually disappeared. Only the distorted likeness of the inside of Alivan’s Wizards and Witches Corner Store reflected off the smooth glass. Jesse Alexander was upstairs sound asleep in his room, never realizing the events that just transpired were going to again change his world.

Chapter One

The Janitor’s Room

Miracle Mahgo poured hot coffee into her mug and glanced out the kitchen window. It was another beautiful morning. The lake was still, a few birds darted from tree to tree searching for their morning meal. The morning mist gently floated over the water down toward the canal as the rising sun caused shadows to spread across the back lawn. Miracle peeked out and noticed that the small flat boat was gone. She knew at once what that meant. Andrew had awakened and was out on the lake. She pulled back the large glass sliding door with her free hand and, dressed in her nightgown, walked across the lawn feeling the wet grass dampen her slippers as she came to sit on one of the four white garden chairs that decorated the shore. She sipped on the coffee mug waiting patiently for her son’s return while reflecting on the beauty of the lake.

The mist lightly parted as a gray shadow emerged to reveal a young man riding in a small flat boat powered by a silent electric engine. Andrew carefully drove it up on the shore and jumped out with his fishing pole and tackle box. He saw his mother sitting in her chair drinking coffee and found comfort knowing that she was always there waiting for him. Her hair was long and dark with a few streaks of gray, as it fell over her shoulders in a soft wavy fashion that helped accent her light skin and pale green eyes. She smiled as he plopped next to her and threw his head back. He wore an old, comfortable tee shirt and shorts along with his everyday sandals.

Good morning, my love. She leaned over and greeted him with a kiss. It’s very early.

Yeah, I know, Andrew said. "Do I have to go to school today?'

Yes.

I knew you were going to say that.

Miracle took another sip and gazed back out to the lake. Did you catch anything?

Nah! I didn’t go fishing.

No? Miracle’ sounded concerned. Mothers can do that so easily with just one word.

I just sat in the mist again.

What time did you get up?

When I heard Dad leave. It happens every time that it’s misty. I get up, and I just know that it’s misty. Weird, it kind of calls me, I guess. It’s like a song, Mom. I can’t hear it, but I feel it. A quiet, calm melody that fills me and…and. You know, I used to think that what I wanted to do was go morning fishing, but I don’t think so anymore, because when I get out there, I don’t fish.

What do you do?

I visit the red dragon.

Miracle didn’t resist and made sure Andrew noticed her uneasy glance.

The red dragon is so cool. It just sits there watching me, and I watch it. It won't leave until I do. It just sits. Actually, Andrew's voice grew more excited. I think it likes to keep me company while I think.

What do you think about?

Andrew shrugged and did not answer.

It’s okay you don’t have to tell me. She sounded disappointed.

Okay Andrew smiled and turned to face her. I think about myself. I think about who I am, and, and…

And?

Mom, Andrew finally said, I think something is missing with me. I don’t get it, but I have like a gap. A big open hole that doesn’t close up and I think that I’m not whole.

You're a teenager, dear, a seventeen-year-old teenager, and teenagers never feel whole because so much is going on. You're a junior this year, playing on the varsity basketball team with the big game coming up soon, worried about SAT's and driving… you have a lot on your plate. It's natural.

Yeah, but when I’m out there sitting in the mist with the dragon, I know it sounds weird, but I feel complete. I feel whole. I get filled like if there was a magic in that lake or with the mist, I don’t know how to explain it.

You sound like your father with all that magic talk and red dragons. Miracle said. There is nothing magical about mist on a lake or a huge iguana.

I know that it's an iguana, but somehow…I think that iguana knows. Somehow it knows what I'm going through. I asked it today if it had a gap and it just blinked and then looked up at the morning sky. For a moment, I thought it was giving me an answer.

Miracle stood up with her empty coffee mug in her hand. Come on let's wake up your brother and get some breakfast. You've got to start getting ready for school. If you stay out here any longer, I'm afraid that you'll be thinking that you're also a wizard. Andrew, you're perfect just the way you are. There is nothing weird about you, alright?

Andrew shrugged and took hold of his fishing gear. He stood up and faced the lake watching the mist slowly shift over the waters as it began to disappear. Andrew stopped and listened. He closed his eyes and pictured himself sitting in the canal facing the red dragon and the red dragon facing him, and he felt whole again.

Andrew! his mother called out to him as she pushed back the sliding glass door to enter the house. Let’s go!

Andrew turned away from the lake, ran up the lawn and went inside after his mother.

Brendan Mahgo closed the metal door to his locker and then pulled at the lock several times until he felt that it was secure from anyone breaking in and taking his schoolbooks and supplies. Being a freshman in an all boy high school was sometimes cruel. The seniors tended to pick on the younger kids and the sophomore students always found different ways to make freshman life challenging. Brendan already suffered a cruel prank. One day while rushing to his next class he arrived at his book locker to discover it empty. A mean boy somehow learned how to break into his locker and stole all his books. For the rest of that day, Brendan felt violated finding it difficult to speak to anyone. He took the prank as a personal insult. Brendan believed the entire student body of Marcellin High School liked him. And in fact, everyone did like him. It was difficult to find a student who wasn't acquainted with him. It wasn't that Brendan was exceptional or outstanding in any activity, or that he stuck out in a large crowd because of his good looks. It was because Brendan was just a very nice kid, and he went out of his way to make everyone around him feel comfortable. No one ever felt intimidated around Brendan. His popularity won him the sophomore class presidential nomination without much campaign effort. Brendan was also an excellent student. He obtained superb grades with only a little endeavor, because he also played on the JV basketball and volleyball teams, so it was very common for Brendan to stay after school because of some activity. If, on a rare occasion, Brendan had no after school activity, he would stick around and wait for his brother Andrew. It meant another opportunity to meet new friends. Andrew was his only ride home and today was just that type of day.

Andrew Mahgo played on the varsity basketball team. His junior year in high school was much different than his little brother's freshman year for many obvious reasons. For one, Andrew could drive. He was seventeen years old and owned a car. Owning a car meant freedom. Well, at least, that's what he thought. It was more freedom than his brother enjoyed. Andrew was an independent teenager, focused and driven. He worked hard at everything, resulting in superior grades and an outstanding three-point outside shot. Of course, all this focus on achieving his goals made him less social than Brendan, but content with just a few good friends. It wasn't that Andrew wasn't well known in his class. He was non-intrusive, mild-mannered and considerate to others in need, qualities that many admired. In fact, Andrew manifested an extraordinary talent for fitting in with the different social groups in his high school. It was one of those things that Brendan never understood, because to Brendan, Andrew was your typical pain in the butt big brother.

Marcellin High School for Boys was not a large school, situated in the heart of the city along with two more schools occupying the same block. The entire block consisted of three private schools, an elementary school on one side and a co-ed high school on the other, and if that wasn't enough, across the street stood a public elementary school. Mornings and afternoons were nothing short of a traffic nightmare. Walkways or bridges connected the four main buildings of Marcellin High School with the gym situated toward the back of the property just before the football field. Andrew was still at basketball practice with the team preparing for the most competitive game of the year, Marcellin vs. Ignatius.

Brendan reached down and pulled his backpack over his shoulder. The many books stuffed inside pulled to one side causing Brendan to lean over as he walked. As he left his locker, he heard a door shut, and turned to find Anthony Eevora walking out of the custodian's room.

Anthony? Brendan called out.

Anthony was more than lost in his thoughts. He looked confused and taken by surprise when he found Brendan just a few feet away. Anthony quickly pulled on his backpack and readjusted his shirt. He ran his free hand over all the zippers to make sure that they were all secure. Hi, he responded nervously.

Brendan approached Anthony. Did you just come out of the janitor’s room?

Anthony kept walking. No, I just peeked inside. He picked up his pace and passed right by Brendan. I’ve got to hurry. My mom is waiting for me. He quickly turned the corner and ran down the stairs.

Brendan watched Anthony leave before turning and facing the custodian's room. The door was closed, like all the other doors in the school. It was well past school hours, and only a few students were still walking the halls. The only reason he still lingered around was because he left a book in his locker, or else he would have been at the gym watching his brother practice or even better socializing with friends. Curiosity pulled Brendan to the shut door. With his free hand, he took hold of the doorknob and turned it, but it was closed. He tried again; locked. Strange, he thought, how could Anthony have peeked inside if the door was locked?

By the time Brendan reached the car, Andrew was already inside with the engine running and the radio blaring loud music. Andrew was covered in sweat. The team practiced longer and harder than usual, and he was feeling the effects: lightheaded, soar, pale and smelly. Brendan threw his backpack in the back, jumped in the front, kicked off his shoes and adjusted the seat back.

How was practice?

Hard Andrew placed the car in reverse and pulled out of his assigned parking spot. The afternoon sun was setting, and for a moment, it blinded Andrew forcing him to cover his eyes with the visor. I can't wait 'til this game is over. All everyone is telling me is, ‘You better beat Ignatius.' I'm so over it.

Brendan wasn't listening. He had something more important on his mind. Do you remember what Dad used to tell us about the janitor's room?

Andrew made certain there was no oncoming car before pulling out of the school parking area. You mean the magic stuff? Yeah.

Well, I saw something weird today. I saw Anthony Eevora leaving the janitor's room next to my locker. When I asked him what he was doing, he said he was just peeking inside, but it was locked. How could he have been peeking when it was locked? And who does that anyway? Who goes around peeking into the janitor's room?

Andrew did not respond.

Don't you find that odd? I mean, really bro? Peeking into the janitor's room, at what? Do you think it's true?

Nooo!

The next morning, Brendan sat in homeroom listening attentively to the announcements. He was hoping to hear a clue, something that would reveal the location of the magic class after school. He had a hunch that today was going to be the day. Brendan was betting on what his father once told him, Everyday a different magic room is chosen. It can be a janitor room or bathroom or classroom. It's announced every morning with the rest of the announcements. The restlessness of his fellow students made it almost impossible for Brendan to listen to any of the announcements. He finally concluded that if he was going to find the new secret location to the magic class, he was going to have to play detective. Brendan decided that he was going to follow Anthony and today was the perfect day because they both shared the last class.

Brendan spent the rest of the day juggling different scenarios and conversations in his mind. All his life his dad claimed that he was a real wizard. However, he wasn't allowed to perform any magic, because it was a breach of some ancient treaty that ended the legendary witch wars. Brendan's father always told the best witch stories including how evil, dark wizards were always looking for him because he was some sort of wizard spy. His father would regularly remind them never to open the door to strangers especially strangers wearing long robes. However, their mother would go to great lengths to convince them that their father was just releasing his imagination and playing pretend. He replayed in his head the familiar stories. How his father learned to fly on a broom, how his cousin was also a witch, the red dragon that lived at the end of the canal, and how their mother never liked magic. Brendan also recalled the strange incidents that always occurred to any of his friends who dared wear his father's large gray pointy hat or play with his staff. His close friends would even call his father ‘the wizard.' Brendan could perfectly envision his father's office at home, and how it was decorated more like a wizard's lair than a place of business. The computers and printers were the only traces of an office. The rest was all magic. A large gray pointy hat was always kept on an old decorative hat rack with a long staff leaning to the side hanging from a leather strap. A long dark robe hung on the wall. Over the armoire filled with books on magic and magical creatures, hung a new broom that Brendan's father boasted to be the fastest in the market.

Finally, the last bell of the day sounded. Brendan watched Anthony grab his backpack and quickly leave the classroom. Brendan immediately stuffed his book into his bag and followed. Boys rushed out of every classroom as the joyful sounds of going home echoed off the school walls. Down below in the parking lot, engines revved as the first cars rushed off the property. Anthony turned down the hall and blended into the crowd of boys that pushed and hurried in different directions. Brendan had no choice but to force himself through the mass and keep far enough behind not to lose sight of Anthony or be noticed.

Brendan! Andrew shouted from somewhere. Where're you going?

Brendan never took his eyes off Anthony. Wait for me! He continued his pursuit.

Anthony crossed the bridge from Building A to Building B. Brendan pulled back fearing being noticed. Anthony turned to his right and then a quick left into the boy's restroom. Brendan slowly crossed the bridge after him detecting a few more boys were entering the bathroom right behind Anthony. He counted five in total. Slowly and inconspicuously Brendan walked in front of the restroom looking forward but peeking through the corner of his eye. He saw no movement or heard no one inside. Brendan found that odd. He stopped, turned around, and took a long deep breath before deciding to go inside. Automatically, Brendan performed the exercise. Dad would be proud; he thought while sensing his toes, legs, arms, and chest. Brendan felt his entire body even the space between his ears. Now he was ready. Brendan entered the restroom. The stalls were all open but no one inside. The urinals were all clean. Even the sinks were dry. No one was there. There was no sign of anyone using the restroom for some time. Brendan was alone. The bathroom was empty.

Chapter Two

Suspended

The judge brought the mallet down hard upon the desk several times as she tried to regain order in the court. She sat high upon the court bench in the center of the courtroom dressed in long robes. The dark wood desk towered over everyone, and a large bright light hung magically from the tall ceiling casting her shadow down upon everyone. The entire courtroom, crowded on all sides, with rows of seats that ran up along the walls, gave the circular room the appearance of an auditorium.

Order! shouted the judge from her seat. I said Order! Mister Alex, are you finished, sir? Her voice was stern and demanding. She was on the brink of losing her patience.

Lord Alex stood before the jury with arms outstretched turning and relishing the applause and cheers of the crowd. He smiled holding his head high as he took a slight bow, dressed in a very sharp and expensive suit with a perfectly pressed white shirt and a bright red tie. His diamond cufflinks twinkled in the bright light. His shoes flawlessly shined.

Beifar Mahgo sat in his seat at the defense table with his court-appointed attorney on one side and Chief Semisecret on the other. He wore his long dark detective cloak, and his gray hat sat on the wood table before him.

I object! shouted his attorney over the noise of the crowd. Your Honor, I object to Mister Alex’s testimony! He has turned this courtroom into a three-ring circus! Your honor…

The judge had a perfect view of everyone from her elevated seat. She watched Lord Alex turn away from the crowd and jury as he strolled to his seat behind the persecuting table in a slow and deliberate manner. His shoulders pulled back and his chest high. He glanced up at the judge and gave a slight smile. He knew he won this case. He took all the necessary measures to guarantee it.

The judge turned to the defense attorney, Chief Semisecret and then to Beifar. Overruled!

Your honor…! returned the tall, slim attorney from behind the defense table. His bright robes hung loosely over his shoulders and down to the floor. He took a deep breath and began to argue the judge's decision.

Chaos again erupted in the courtroom. Everyone commented one way or another over the latest ruling. The judge repeatedly demanded order from her towering bench. No one noticed the large wooden doors open and close as a figure shrouded in dark robes slowly entered slipping into a seat behind the crowds. No one noticed the mysterious stranger enter the courtroom except the wizard Beifar.

Beifar found it suspicious, as would any well-trained agent of the Department. Inconspicuously he shifted in his seat attempting to get a better look, but by now, the mysterious person was purposely well hidden. It's identity concealed from everyone.

Your honor that was not a testimony! That was a theatrical speech…

Beifar returned to the trial. His attorney was putting up a good fight. Again he strained to catch a look at the dark figure but did not succeed. Then he turned to his cousin Ana Mahgo, who sat in an upper row across the room directly in front of his bench. He made eye contact with her and rolled his eyes in the mysterious person's direction. She immediately caught the signal, shifted in her seat, but could not see anything unusual from her angle. She responded with a shrug.

I object! The prosecuting attorney jumped to his feet. Your Honor, the defense attorney is claiming that my client’s testimony is not…

This is a joke. Chief Semisecret whispered to Beifar. Lord Alex has turned this hearing into a traveling sideshow, and no one has the guts to stand up to him. He took a sip from his glass of water. No one except you. Are you alright?

Yeah… yeah, replied Beifar. I’m holding up okay.

Beifar twisted in his seat as he glanced back at the location where the robed person sat trying again to identify the concealed stranger. The judge pounded on her desk and called both attorneys forward. The bailiff stepped before the bench and withdrew his wand. He pointed to the defense attorney and commanded in a bored tone, "Ascendo." Then he turned to the prosecuting attorney and did the same. The two lawyers floated upward toward the judge stopping before her in midair.

The people in the courtroom talked amongst themselves while the two attorneys and the judge consulted in secret. Beifar reached into his coat and took hold of his blue talisman. It immediately glowed in his fist. He closed his eyes and concentrated. He glanced over at Lord Alex and knew at once that he lost this case. His heart sank for a moment, but he quickly shook it off. He shifted in his chair and tried again to pick out the mysterious person, but it was useless.

The judge called forward Bastian Semisecret. The bailiff waved his wand sending the Chief of the Department up to the judge’s bench.

Beifar paid no attention and gripped the stone tighter searching for feelings. Then he felt it. It was subtle, but he could feel it…hatred. It was unique to just one person. At first, Beifar believed it was Lord Alex, but his archrival appeared more victorious than ever.

The mysterious person slowly emerged from behind the crowd still in the shadows. The concealed head glanced up to the bench, and for a moment, Beifar caught a glimpse of the face as light peeked underneath the hood. It was a woman. Unexpectedly, Beifar felt through his talisman detestation. It was such an intense feeling that it made his stomach turn. He followed her gaze until it stopped on one of the four members of the judge's bench, or at all four, it wasn't clear. The feeling was strong, and with every second it became more intense and vivid. Beifar, overtaken by loath and disgust, let loose of his magic stone and focused until the feelings were gone. The stone ceased to glow and returned to normal. Beifar turned and found that the mysterious woman was facing him. Their eyes met. She caught him spying on her. Quickly she turned and left the court chambers.

Slowly the three men floated back to their places. Chief Semisecret sat back in his chair very upset. I’m sorry, he whispered to Beifar, I tried my best.

Beifar turned to his defense attorney, anxiously searching hopelessly through files and papers. On the other side, at the prosecuting desk, Lord Alex and his lawyer looked incredibly smug and triumphant

Agent Mahgo! the judge called out to the wizard.

The bailiff motioned him to stand, and Beifar slowly rose to his feet.

After hearing both sides and testimonies, I am ready to pass judgment. She signed several documents and stamped each one with a seal. The court has decided that as of this moment, you are suspended of your duties as an agent of the Magical Department of Investigations, MDI, until further notice. Until that time, if you are seen anywhere near Mister Alex, or any of his associates or properties, you will be charged and dealt with accordingly. Do you understand, sir?

Beifar nodded yes.

Very well, you are at this moment assigned to meet with your superior and carry out his recommendations. The judge slammed the mallet on the table. Court adjourned, have a good day, people. The judge stood to leave her desk.

Judge Barbara! called out a reporter. A quick picture for the press, please!

She turned to the press seats and forced an impatient smile. Cameras clicked, and bulbs flashed. Then FLASH and Judge Barbara was gone.

Beifar stood silent. He seemed distracted, far away in thought. His attorney packed his briefcase, quickly shook Beifar's hand, turned and raced out the courtroom. Chief Semisecret straightened his coat then patted Beifar on his shoulder.

Take some time off, he suggested. Judge Barbara owes me a few favors. I'll call her in the morning, and we'll get this fixed. I'll wait until you're ready. Give the wife a hug and a kiss. Then he slowly walked away with his hands in his pant pockets as the crowd rose to their feet slowly leaving the chamber while discussing the recent decision and the events of the case.

Lord Alex rose from his seat and hugged his attorney. The reporters chatted among themselves, and some rushed over to Lord Alex to ask questions for their newspaper columns. Lord Alex stood tall and proud making his way out of the chamber followed by a group of fans and followers. At the great doors, his wife calmly approached and met him. They said nothing as they gave each other a slight kiss on the cheek. He then turned to the reporters and continued his interview, leaving her behind alone. Beifar found the encounter extremely uncomfortable.

The doors shut behind them, and Mrs. Alex was left standing alone in the courtroom with Beifar. Everyone had gone. Beifar grabbed his hat and placed it on his head adjusting the brim to drop over his eyes. He wasn't sure what to feel. He seemed confused and distant. I won't make any decisions feeling like this, he thought, I'll wait till tomorrow. He adjusted his cloak and began to leave.

Beifar, Lord Alex's wife called out to him. She was still standing where her husband left her.

The wizard looked up surprised to find her waiting for him. He smiled as he approached and extended his hand to greet her. How have you been, Gabriela?

She forced a smile and responded as she took his hand and held it, I’m well, thank you, and you?

Beifar smiled. I'll be just fine, he said confidently. I've experienced tougher challenges before, and I always get right back on my feet...so why not again? It will take more than this to knock me down.

I’m sorry, Beifar, you know how Lord gets with things…

No need to apologize, Gabriela. We both know your husband.

She paused for a moment and looked at the wizard. He doesn't know, Beifar. I've never told him about us being friends. If he did, I don't know how he would react. Her voice trembled, and she looked away.

And he never will, at least not from me, Beifar assured her.

Gabriela stepped forward and threw her arms around Beifar and sobbed. I’m sorry! she repeated. Beifar reached out to hold her and comfort her when FLASH!

Gabriela was gone.

Beifar didn't know what to make of it, but he wasn't going to spend any time worrying about it.