Apprentices Journey

By Kevin Retz and Kelsey Retz

The book is for readers that love an adventure and being transported to another land. A land of magic and wonder. A land that is changing around the reader and the characters in the story. This is a fast pace story where the reader will travel with Flint and his fellow students as they become Wizards and protectors of the land.
Flint has been selected to be a student of the greatest Wizard in the land, Lorfan. Flint is the youngest in his family. Neither Flint nor his family had a clue of what to do with Flint after school until Lorfan paid him and his parents a visit. Flint was to become one of five students that Lorfan would train. From the moment that Flint left his comfortable home in White Water his life was changed. For now, he was a wizard in training in a world that was rapidly changing. Orc raids on the northern lands were becoming more common and rumors of other monsters roaming the land were becoming common. The book follows Flint and his fellow students on their travels across the land while they are trained by Lorfan and other wizards in the art of magic.
Flint meets not only his fellow students Ramon, Elizabeth, May and Malloric.
The students travel the land meeting and being trained by other wizards and witches. Flint who has only once left his little town of White Water is amazed by the vastness of the lands that Lorfan has traveled to and the sights that he sees while traveling with Lorfan and his fellow students. Flint visits towns that have only been dots on maps. He fights monsters that he thought were just myth's and meets magical creatures that help him on his way. Flint learns to judge others not by their size or the color of their skin but by their heart.
Flint realizes that some of the most important lessons in life he learned back home, respect for himself and others and to treat all creatures as he would want to be treated.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Nov 7, 2021
• ISBN: 9781667801872

Book preview

Chapter 1

Flint, clear the table and remember you must clean the stables and the chicken coop before you even think about doing anything else. Flint’s father yelled as he headed out the back door to his workshop.

Flint, the youngest of six kids, was the runt of the group. He was tall and bright for his age but of very slight build to the point of being skinny. At school, the kids called him bones. Flint came from a working family. His father Joe was a tanner as well as a leatherworker who was known for the quality of his work. Flint’s father was a very hard working man. As was customary, the eldest son, Chris, who would take over the business, worked alongside their father, learning the craft and the business. Flint’s other two brothers, Gary and George, were in the Home Guard and also ran a small farm that had been given to them by the king for service in protecting the borders from the constant incursions by the Orcs and Trolls. Together the two brothers had killed a dragon that had been terrorizing the northern towns.

The king had granted the brothers permission to keep the dragon’s skin, claws and teeth after they had delivered to him a shield and chest plate made out of some of the dragon’s scales. The brothers now traded dragon’s blood, scales, teeth and claws to help support themselves and their farm.

Since Flint was the youngest and his older brother, Chris, would take over the family business, Flint was expected to make his own way in life after he turned sixteen. Everybody in the family had some reservations about his perspectives. He was already considered by many as too small for the army or the active Home Guard. He was fair in school but his marks would not get him accepted into the Royal Academy like his sister Anna had been. Flint was bright and did well in school but tests were not his forte—he never did well on tests. He showed no interest and his body was not made for tanning—his hands were not strong enough for that line of work. No one in the family knew what they were going to do with the runt called Flint. He, however, dreamed of leaving the village and traveling to far-off lands and leaving the little town of White Water far behind. Little did Flint know that his dream was about to come true.

While he was cleaning out the chicken coop, an old man in a traveling cloak and hat came into the courtyard from the fields behind. On seeing Flint, the man asked in a demanding voice, Boy, where can I find your parents? Flint looked at the traveler and said, The name is Flint, not BOY, and do you have some business with my father?

The traveler looked at Flint. I know your name, and that you’re fourteen years of age. You are the youngest son, no, make that the youngest child of Joe Hailstone, who is a tanner and leathersmith by trade. You’re the younger brother of Gary and George Hailstone, the dragon slayers. The business I have with your parents is my business for now. Remember you still must show respect when speaking to your elders. Now, where may I find your parents please?

My father is in his workshop and my mother is in the house.

The old man looked at Flint with a stern eye, and then with a commanding voice, called out, Well, now boy, go get your mother and escort her to your father’s shop. I will need to talk to both of them.

Annoyed at being called boy again, Flint nodded his head slightly in a semi-polite manner and watched as the old man headed off to his father’s shop before he grudgingly headed off into the house to get his mother. Flint was wondering who this strange old man was, and why he had come into the courtyard by way of the field. The old man appeared to have only a small traveling bag and a large walking stick. Flint went into the house and found his mom fixing soup in the kitchen.

Mom, there is a strange, old man with a long, gray beard and a traveling cloak with a large walking stick that would like to talk to you and dad out in the workshop.

Flint’s mom looked up from cutting up some carrots and rosemary for the soup to ask Flint who the man was, his name and what he wanted.

Flint looked at her and said that he was just some grumpy, old fart, who did not give him his name or business, plus he told him to mind his own business and to escort his mom to the shop.

Flint’s mom gave him a look that would have turned butter into stone and reminded him to keep a civil tongue in his head and said she would not have him speak disrespectfully of anybody, including an elder.

When Flint started to say something, his mother cut him off. Not another word. Let’s go see what this gentleman wants. I hope you have not gone and gotten yourself into trouble.

Wiping her hands on her apron, Flint’s mother followed him out into the courtyard, then into the shop, where they found the traveler and Flint’s dad talking and laughing.

When they entered, the old man smiled and looked at Flint and said, I thought you had gotten lost.

Flint’s father told Flint to go take care of the man’s horse, to feed him and give him a good brush and some freshwater. The horse would be found out behind the barn grazing in the field, he said. Flint’s father motioned for him to leave, so Flint thought it was not a good idea to stick around. But as Flint left, he grumbled under his breath about having to look after the old guy’s horse and wondered why it was out back. Why did he not come in by the road like most other visitors?

After Flint had left the shop, his father introduced the traveler to Flint’s mother. Sylvia, this is Lorfan.

Her mouth fell open, You mean the wizard?

Lorfan bowed, A pleasure to meet you. I met your husband in the king’s court and I have met your sons when I bought some dragon’s blood from them. I have even spent a night or two out at their farm. What a lovely little place they have.

Sylvia regained her composure, looked at her husband then back at Lorfan, and asked, What business brings you to our home?

A meal, if possible, some good riding gloves, and your son!

My son? A meal and gloves, yes, that would be a pleasure. But my son, I do not understand? And which son?

Lorfan looked at her and calmly stated, Every once in a while we in the wizard world, or wizard profession, select a few able students to train and carry on the profession. This year the Wizard Council chose me, or tasked me, to select five students to train to become part of the next generation of wizards. And yes, your son is one of the four I have selected. Your son can become a great wizard, not just a good one. I met him before when your husband came to the court of King Alfred a few years ago. Your son does not remember me for we were not properly introduced. I have also watched him whenever I have come to town and on a couple of occasions, have seen him in the fields when I went to see Gary and George. You know they grow some of the most excellent herbs. Flint needs a profession—one that he can excel at, and few are ever chosen and none are chosen by chance. Flint has the talent.

Both Sylvia and Joe looked at each other and then at Lorfan and at the same time blurted out, A WIZARD!

Sylvia was quick to follow up with a question. Are you sure you have the right boy?

Lorfan’s smile only deepened as he replied, I am most positive I have the right boy.

Sylvia then tried to reason why it could not be her son. But he is only fourteen. He is not ready for the world. He is definitely too young.

Lorfan looked at her. Is he too young? Or are you just not ready to let go of your youngest child?

After a minute to let his questions sink in, Lorfan continued.

He has the talent; he can handle a bow and a sword so he is ready for the world. His teacher at school has told me he has a quick mind but lacks focus. He is good with science, research and reading but is lacking in some of the other areas. His biggest problem in school is his inability to take tests. He has the talent and he is the right age to start his training as a wizard’s apprentice.

Joe then asked a few questions, still trying to understand this sudden news. How long is the training and how much does it cost?

The training can be up to five years, but some students are presented early to the council. Flint will need twenty pieces of silver, a horse, bed roll, bow, sword, and some personal items. The rest he can earn along the way and I also have a grant from King Alfred that he can use as required. I leave the day after tomorrow early in the morning. Now can we ask what Flint thinks of the idea—if he says no, then I must be on my way and find another student. Also I know that the silver may be hard to find right now, so if you can spare just a couple of pieces for the start of the journey, the rest I will cover with the grant and he can earn some more along the way.

Joe and Sylvia again, as if still baffled, muttered, "A wizard?

Yes, a wizard. Now can we call the boy in?

Joe went to the yard and called his youngest son into his shop.

Flint hesitantly entered the workshop thinking that he must have done something wrong and was about to be scolded for something even though he could not think of anything he had done to deserve a scolding. When he entered the shop, he instantly noticed that his parents and the stranger all had intense looks and were staring at him.

Flint looked at his father and said, Yes, sir, you called me?

Before Joe could answer, Lorfan spoke up.

Good morning, Flint. Do you know who I am?

Flint’s mother’s words about showing respect to elders crept into his head. No, sir, I do not.

Well, I know you, and I have been watching you for a long time. I am Lorfan. I’m a wizard and a member of the wizard Council and counsel to King Alfred and also the royal family and court of Translan.

Pausing to let it soak in, Lorfan continued.

I’m here to ask you to consider being a student of mine. To come with me to learn how to become a wizard and serve this earth and the people that dwell upon this earth.

Lorfan paused again knowing that the gears in Flint’s mind were spinning.

Flint, I would like you, no, I would consider it an honor if you would become a student of mine. Flint, you will travel with me for three to four years and be taught by me and other wizards, all that you will need to know to become a wizard.

You mean I could become a wizard, like you? asked Flint.

Yes, that is the intent, given time, and if you’re willing to train hard.

When do we start?

Flint’s Mother interrupted, Flint, I think we need to discuss this a little and not go making a hasty judgment. We don’t really know what this all means and we should have a family discussion about it.

Flint, I need to leave the morning after tomorrow. If you would like to join me, meet me at the League Bridge no later than 8:00 in the morning. I will leave you now so you can discuss things with your parents. Joe, can you send a set of gloves along with Flint? Joe nodded in response.

Flint, I will plan to see you the day after tomorrow if you want to become a wizard. Good day, Joe and Sylvia, thank you for your time.

Lorfan left the shop and they heard him riding out of the courtyard a minute later. Flint’s mother was the first to speak. Well, you’re too young to go and that is that.

Sylvia, we need to think about what else Flint can do with his life. Lorfan is a very famous and wise wizard. There is no one finer or better to teach him. Plus, in a few years, Flint will have to find some kind of trade, Joe replied.

I just think he is too small and young to become a wizard. What kind of a life is the life of a wizard anyway?

Before his father could answer Flint spoke for himself. It is my choice or is it not? I am almost six feet tall and I’m fourteen. I can take care of myself and I think I would like to become a wizard.

It will be too dangerous for you, Sylvia spoke up.

You did not say anything when George and Gary became members of the Guard. You were so proud of Gary when he made Captain.

Sensing the frustration in Flint’s voice and a need to calm both his son and his wife, Joe spoke in a calm voice.

Flint, do not speak to your mother in that tone, she is only concerned for your safety.

I can take care of myself, Flint said, then stormed out of the shop and headed into the fields toward the trees to think and be alone.

Watching her son storm out, Sylvia whispered, I still think he is too young.

Sylvia, maybe Lorfan is right. We just think he is too young, for he is your baby, the last child. But Flint must make his own way in life and until now none of us had any idea about what to do with him, what direction to guide him towards. Even Flint seemed to not have a clear picture of where he wanted to go in life. The only thing he was sure of before today was that he needed to leave White Water. And maybe that is what we both fear. This gives him that opportunity to leave and when he does leave, he will not return for a long time and this will never be his home again, for wizards never really have a home. I think that is what we both fear.

Sylvia turned to face her husband with tears in her eyes. Exactly what kind of a life does a wizard lead?

Flint has always been drawn elsewhere. Maybe, this is his path. We will talk to him when he returns tonight. I know your son. He will not be back till it’s dark. He has stormed off to the woods or gone off down by the river.

Sylvia smiled.

He has your temper at times.

But he has your manners when he wants to use them and overall a good head on his shoulders.

Sylvia walked over and gave Joe a hug.

I just want him to keep that head on his shoulders.

Flint returned after nightfall. Both his parents were waiting for him by the fire in the kitchen. His father called out to him as he slipped in through the back door.

Flint, come here please.

Flint entered the room and sat down in the chair that sat in the corner next to the fire wood. His mother put away her sewing and his father put down his pipe, looked straight at Flint, and began talking. You have been out all afternoon, have you thought about Lorfan’s offer?

Yes, I would like to become a wizard. It seems right for me, especially when nothing else I have thought about doing seems right. I am not meant to be a tanner, a farmer, and no trade interests me. I like science but where can I learn that or what can I use it for? But now that I think about it, I could become a wizard. Wizards serve the land, the people, and use science! Maybe this is my path.

Do you want to become a wizard because of the stories you have heard around this very fire. Even your brothers have talked about meeting Lorfan and going into battle with him at their side. The legends and stories are full of the power of wizards. But they don’t tell the whole story. Wizards have no home. Lorfan is constantly traveling and no one knows when he will show up or for how long, and that goes for all wizards.

I want to try to become a wizard.

Well, your mother and I have been talking, and you have our blessing if this is what you want.

Flint was stunned for a minute until his father’s words sank in.

I can become a wizard; I don’t have to run away?

No, you don’t have to run away, but promise that you will come home and visit whenever you can, his mother chimed in.

I will become the best wizard possible, Father, you will be proud of me.

Well Sylvia, it looks like we will have a wizard in the family.

Flint went over and hugged both his parents.

His mom whispered in his ear as he hugged her, You always make us proud.

Flint then had a bite to eat before heading off to bed.

He went to bed but had a hard time falling asleep thinking about what lay ahead and the grand adventure that was about to begin. He also thought about what all the other kids in the village would think when they found out he would not be back at school, ever! That he, Flint Hailstone, was going to be a wizard. Flint spent the following day getting everything ready. Flint sharpened his sword and made sure he had a full quiver of arrows. He got his pack ready and asked his dad for a set of old saddlebags that his father had taken as part of payment for a new pair he had made for a customer. Flint’s father left early in the afternoon and returned before dinner. Flint was in the kitchen helping his mom get dinner ready when his father called out from the courtyard. Flint and his mother went out into the courtyard to see his dad with a horse. The horse was light gray in color with a few black splotches in its coat.

Her name is Misty. She is a good, strong horse and fast. I bought her from Fred Langstren. When Fred heard that Lorfan had selected somebody from the village as a student, he gave me a very good deal. Fred also told me to tell you, Make us proud. Remember, you’re from White Water. I told him you would never forget. Lorfan said you needed a good horse. So here you go—a gift from your mother and me

Flint walked up to the horse and patted her nose; she immediately nuzzled into Flint. His dad handed him the reins to the horse.

I think she likes you.

Thanks, dad.

Flint then went over and hugged his mom and thanked her for the horse before heading off to the stables with her.

After putting Misty in the stables, they had dinner. Flint’s brother Chris and his family came over as did Flint’s oldest sister, Mary, with her family. Flint’s other two brothers could not make it for some reason. This made Flint a little sad. Mary and Chris were not sure if letting Flint become a wizard was the right choice. Mary was the more vocal about it.

I’m not sure he can do it.

Flint spoke up for himself before his dad or anybody else could.

Yes, I can, and Lorfan has selected me, he has faith in me.

Well, you have never been away from White Water except for that one trip you took with dad, Gary and George. I don’t think you’re ready!

Well, mom and dad have already said yes.

Flint’s father then put his pipe down and spoke to end the conversation.

Mary, Flint is ready and your mother and I have already given our blessing.

Flint went to bed leaving Mary discussing the issue with their parents. That night he dreamed of giants, dragons and magic mist.

In the morning, Flint woke early before the sun was up and he found his mother and father already up and in the kitchen. His father helped Flint saddle up Misty and get all of his gear ready to go.

Make sure you take care of the horse and your equipment and it will take care of you. Also I have put the gloves for Lorfan in your bags, don’t forget to give them to him. Flint we will miss you around the shop and the house, and I know Gary and George will miss you. Now let’s go get breakfast before you head out. The sun is up, and Lorfan, I know, will be early at the bridge.

Flint’s mother did not say a word during breakfast. After eating and once Flint had helped clear the dishes away, his dad led him and his mother outside. His mother brought out an extra set of saddlebags that could be attached to the top of his old set. It was a set of bags that a customer had requested but had not picked up yet.

I have packed you some jams, honey, bread, dried fruits, and meats for the trip. Now take care, my son.

Flint’s parents gave him a hug. His dad gave him a small bag of silver.

Tuck this inside your belt and tie it tight. It is not much but it’s the best we can do for now. I wish it was more!

Thanks, Lorfan said I can work and earn the rest. You have taught me how to work hard. I’m not afraid. I will be alright and I will be back when I can.

With that, Flint tucked away the money purse and made sure the second set of saddlebags was secured before he gave his parents one last hug and mounted Misty.

He rode to the courtyard entrance and turned and waved goodbye.

About eighth of a league down the lane, Flint stopped and looked back. Flint’s parents had walked to the center of the lane to see him off. He waved back and then leaned over and patted Misty.

Ready for an adventure?

Chapter 2

Flint rode to the bridge and found Lorfan mounted on his horse, waiting for him on the far side of the bridge.

Good morning, Flint, I’m glad you did not back out and that you are on time. Your journey into a much bigger world is about to begin.

I must admit, sir, that I thought about not coming. I’m leaving everything I have ever known, my family and the village.

Flint, remember that life is, by definition, change. Everything around us is in constant change. Every day you learn new things and the world around you is also changing and being changed and acted upon. Life is changing.

But how will I become a wizard? How will I learn everything I need to learn? I’m not the best student in school. I’m not as strong as my brothers.

Flint, you will be taught by me and others in every aspect of magic, self-defense, and logical thinking. Along the way, you will learn some foreign languages and you will travel. I will not be the only teacher you will have. Now before we start on the road today, I will give you your first lesson, look around you and breathe deep, yes, take a deep breath.

Flint took a deep breath as instructed. What do you feel and perceive?

Air going into my lungs.

Flint, what do you see? Lorfan asked.

I see the stream, a pond, field, and the bridge.

What connects everything you see?

Connection? I see no connection.

Most people would say the same, there is no connection. But that assumption or observation is where they are wrong. There is a life force that flows through everything and binds everything together. Magic is the tapping into that force and using that force to affect a change in the environment. By tapping into that force, you can affect change or see things that are not apparent to the unaided eye, like a distant point. This life force creates us and gives us energy and binds us to the universe and the world we live in.

So, if this energy or force is all around us, are there good energy or magic and bad magic?

Excellent question. By asking questions, we learn and grow. Never be afraid to ask questions. Now to answer your question, no, there is just energy. How it is used and manipulated is what causes black magic. Black magic is caused by the person controlling the energy. Energy is neither good nor bad but the way it is used or channeled is what makes it good or bad. Now that is your first lesson. It will give you something to think about as we ride forth this morning. We have a long way to go today. We will stop for lunch and then ride till nightfall. I want to be in Mason within three days from today.

I guess this is goodbye to White Water, Flint said somberly.

Now, Flint, it is not goodbye. You will be back. It’s just that when you come back, you will have changed. That I can guarantee. White Water will seem very strange when you come back. It will probably seem quite out of touch with the rest of the world. Flint, you are about to embark on a great journey, Lorfan commented, before turning his horse down the lane.

They rode off together for the first thirty minutes into the bright morning sunshine. Flint noticed two horsemen coming across the fields toward them at a good gallop. At first, he did not recognize the riders but after a few minutes, he noticed they were his brothers, Gary and George. The rest of his family, except for Anna, Gary and George had seen him at dinner the night before. But his two favorite brothers were not there. Flint had felt sad not to have been able to see his two favorite brothers before he left. He noticed that both horses were carrying saddlebags and bed rolls. The sight of his brothers lifted his heart as he thought that they had ridden out to see him off and maybe to ride along for a while.

Lorfan also noticed the two riders on an intersecting course coming across the fields, and said, Looks like we might have some company for the ride this morning.

His two brothers came onto the road in front of them and waited for Flint and Lorfan to ride up to meet them.

George was the first to speak.

Good morning, now, Flint, you did not really think we would not be by to see you off? We decided that it would be better and more fitting if we rode out to meet you, and rode along with you today. This is the last day you will be our baby brother. By the time we see you next, you will have seen and known things we will never even dream about.

Gary then added, Plus, he is trying to be very nice to you this morning fearing that the next time he sees you, you might remember all those times he was mean to you and turn him into a slug or something worse, like a dung beetle.

The comment made Flint smile.

No, I think I will have Lorfan teach me something useful like turning him into a goat or a pig.

This made Lorfan smirk.

Your brothers are much too valuable as they are to be turned into a pig or a goat—how about a horse or maybe an ox?

You know, George, sending him away to become a wizard may not be such a great idea, he might forget about us after he sees the great big world and becomes an important wizard, said Gary.

Smiling, Lorfan brought the boys back to the task at hand.

We are burning daylight and we have a long way to ride today. It is nice of you to join us for today, I was wondering if you would.

Looking at Lorfan, both brothers said, You knew we would be here, didn’t you?

I sensed that you would join us today. Was I sure? No, but I sensed that you would join us, yes.

The four rode on in silence enjoying the warm sun. The three brothers knew that their world was changing even if the rest of the world did not realize it.

After an hour, Gary spoke up.

Lorfan, where are you off to first, and what will be the first things my brother will learn?

First, we are off to Mason for a few days to get supplies and a few minor lessons from a doctor I know there. Then it is off to Black Hill and the manor house of Baron Kramites. At Black Hill, your brother will learn how to serve and eat a hall dinner and also some cooking skills from the chief cook. Flint will learn how to cook and serve dinner in a manor house, or at least the basics. To prepare a good meal fit for a king takes years to learn. Flint will learn all about being a wizard and to be a wizard is more than just magic. He will learn how to socialize with people from all walks of life and how to relate to them.

Flint spoke with some hesitation in his voice.

But do I have to serve dinner and do dishes? I could have stayed home and done that.

Gary was the first to respond, Little brother, a dinner at court or even a manor house is not the same as at mom’s table. Manners and etiquette are very important at court. George and I were out of place when the King summoned us. We were true country bumpkins, but at least we did nothing that would have embarrassed mother.

They all laughed at the comment, Flint because he knew his brothers and how clumsy they could be; the others, cause they had been there.

Like throwing up in the punch bowl, or picking your nose at the table or wiping our mouth with our sleeves, George chirped.

Lorfan added, Your mother raised all three of you better than that. Flint, it is important for you to spend some time at Black Hill. You need to learn how to attend, court not just as a member of the court but how to blend in with the staff and people at all levels in life. I need you at Black Hill for a little while and I will explain myself more later.

After riding for four hours, the group took a break for lunch.

Flint’s brothers had brought cured ham, bread and apples, and shared these with Flint and Lorfan.

After eating a hearty lunch, Lorfan and Gary broke out their pipes for a quick smoke.

Lorfan then called Flint over.

Flint, this is your second lesson. Can you find three plants that can be eaten in whole or in part from where you are sitting?

I see the blackberries—that is an easy one. But I don’t see anything else.

Lorfan pushed a little harder. Open your eyes and think or be creative.

Well, there might be mushrooms around the stump. I have also heard that the grey moss, when it is light green in color and has not turned grey can be eaten as a salad. The inner bark of the birch tree can be put into stews or soups like a noodle, and if cooked for a long time, can become soft and is supposed to give some flavor to the stew.

Very good, Flint, you do listen to what is going on around you. Your ability to listen has always impressed me. You’re very observant and listen well. What you have heard from an elder is true. I must tell you; grey moss and birch wood do not make very good eating but if you are hungry, they will keep you alive. The good thing about grey moss is that if you add water to it and grind it into a paste and apply it to a burn or a bee sting, it will take the sting out and help relieve the pain and discomfort. Flint, part of being a wizard is learning about plants and medicine, the elements, and the world around you.

I try hard to listen and learn as much as I can.

Keep that up and your lessons will go much easier. Also please feel free to ask questions whenever you have one. I may not answer your question right away or tell you that it will be answered in due time. But I will not forget your question and I assure you, it will be answered in time. At times, you may not be ready for the answer or the answer will present itself at the proper time, you must trust my judgment. When I tell you that your question will be answered in due time, do not press the point and trust in my judgment. And do not repeat the question—I will not forget it, I assure you.

George was the first to break the silence after a few minutes.

I think it is time for us to be moving on so we get some miles behind us and can find a good campsite before nightfall. In the morning, Gary and I will have to turn back and hopefully, get some game along the way.

The group saddled up and headed down the road toward Mason. They rode in a loose group of four, chatting about the weather and the crops and animals on the brothers’ farms. Flint was not much into the conversation for he was thinking about how this would be the last time he would see any member of his family for several months, if not potentially for over a year, and that tonight would be the last time he would camp out with his brothers for a very long time. Even though it was a bright August night, Flint felt a little bit cold. But he smiled to himself, knowing that it was just him being a little silly, for he knew this really was his path. Flint’s path was one that nobody else from his family or even his village had ever tried to take. After tonight, he would be on his own, and would prove to the world that he could become a great wizard.

The group did not stop all afternoon. They rode on at a steady pace but did not push the horses hard. Around five, when the group came upon a little stream that was visible from the road, Lorfan called a halt for the day.

We can camp down by the bend in the stream and there is still enough daylight left for us to set the canvas and get a nice fire going and possibly see if there are any fish in that stream, he said.

Gary and George unloaded the horses and gave a quick brush to each horse while Flint set up the four canvases that served as tents, and gathered some wood so Lorfan could start a fire and put some water on to make some tea.

Flint and his brothers then cut poles and fashioned fishing lines to the ends. Lorfan provided the bait. Lorfan quickly dried some bread and added a scent of rotten cabbage to the bread. Lorfan also told Flint that it was not appropriate for him to share this spell with him at this time. The brothers took off to fish while Lorfan took out his pipe and smoked, blowing gray smoke rings across the campsite.

The brothers each took a spot along the bank and cast their lines after baiting the hooks. After an hour with no luck, Flint was surprised to see Lorfan standing next to him. Flint had not heard him come up.

If you do not catch something we may have a very light dinner tonight. We still have a couple of days to ride to reach Mason, and we need to make the provisions last. But I sense we will not go hungry for I have some potatoes and carrots in a pot on the fire. Now all we need is some fish to go with those vegetables. Flint, pull your line out very quietly and let the top of the hook rest just above the water.

Flint did as he was told without letting his brothers notice.

Lorfan pulled out his wand that was hidden in his flowing robes and pointed the wand at the hook and softly spoke a word that Flint could not hear or understand. As Lorfan spoke, the dried piece of bread on his hook turned into a small fish. As the bread turned into the fish, Lorfan gave some quick instructions.

Now, quickly put the line back into the water and slowly bob the line up and down.

Within a minute, Flint felt a tug on his line that almost ripped the pole from his hand since he was not gripping the pole very tightly.

The commotion caught the attention of his brothers and when Flint turned to smile at Lorfan, the wizard was back sitting on a log by the fire smoking his pipe and smiling at him.

Flint pulled in a three to four pound fish, and looking at his brothers, he yelled out, Since I caught dinner, you two can clean it.

Flint hated to clean fish or dress game for that matter, but he could do it if he had to. It would be good to see his brothers clean the fish.

Flint’s brothers looked at him and came back down to where he stood on the stream bank holding the fish. Gary took the fish from him to clean.

George stayed back with Flint for a few minutes.

Nice work, little brother. It will be nice to go fishing with you in the future when you know about changing spells yourself. I saw Lorfan standing next to you. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings, a wizard or no wizard. Know what is going on around you and with those around you will help keep you alive on the road.

Flint smiled at his brother, knowing that his advice was true, and that the trick—no, the magic—that Lorfan had used was very cool and that he was going to learn it.

After dinner, Flint cleaned up the dishes in the stream and let them dry on a wood rack by the fire.

After the good meal and the long ride, Flint drifted off to bed early. Gary told Flint that he would wake him early for the last watch. It was customary for travelers to keep a watch at night even if they had a wizard in their company. One had to be careful when traveling.

Gary woke Flint early in the morning for the last watch.

Start the fire again in a few hours so we can have a hot breakfast and some coffee before we have to be on the road again. We will be going our own way when we part. For me, the road will take me home; for you, it will take you on a grand adventure. To tell you the truth, Flint, I’m a little jealous of you. It would be neat to learn how to be a wizard but that is your path, not mine. For you were chosen, not I. Good luck, little brother. Don’t forget when you stop at night and look up at the stars to think about us at home from time to time and send a prayer our way. May the gods look after you! said Gary.

Gary’s words brought a smile to Flint’s face.

Thanks, I will be home when I can. I’m excited about becoming a wizard but also scared at the same time.

Don’t worry, you’re learning from the best wizard in all the land. If you could not be a great wizard, he would not have selected you to train. Listen, try hard and you will do well, also remember your manners and to pay attention to what is going on around you. The world is exciting to explore but also dangerous.

Gary then went off to sleep, leaving Flint alone to look out at the night sky and to keep an eye on the horses and the surrounding countryside. Flint was used to night watch for it was a routine that he and his brothers had always had when out hunting. The night watch was a routine that the brothers had picked up in the guard and insisted on it even when it was just the three of them.

Dawn broke clear and warm. Flint had the fire going and the pot for coffee on. Flint had also warmed some bread up for breakfast along with some of his mother’s homemade jam and apple butter. After washing their face and teeth, they sat down to a light but warm breakfast.

After breakfast, they saddled up the horses and rode back up the short distance to the road.

Gary reached the road first and turned his horse to face Flint and Lorfan while George pulled up next to him. George then spoke to