Chapter Three: Herbalism
Still reeling from the embarrassment of her desk’s untimely destruction, Adelia couldn’t keep her cheeks from displaying a shade of red. The keep was far behind her, but her present company had her recalling the incident vividly.
Despite the explosive event in his room, Gaston was not perturbed in the least. That wasn’t the first desk that had suffered at the hands of an errant potion, he told his pupil. He was aware of Adelia’s apprehension but could only smile in reply. Instead, he focused on the piece of parchment in his hands, though it was blank.
His pupil – still red-faced – looked at him inquisitively.
The pair of magi emerged from the wildflower fields, the topiary guardians staring at them from afar. Gaston abruptly stopped and pointed his finger toward his apprentice.
Adelia was surprised by the sudden emerald glow upon her chest. Still, she offered no resistance.
“You’re gaining an understanding of your surroundings,” the sage observed. “Your instincts are evolving faster than I’d have expected.”
Standing straighter after that comment, the young lady patiently watched as Gaston continued his enchantment. The emerald aura seemed to pull from her body along with the sage’s hand. When it was completely liberated, it floated into the air like a haze. Gaston swatted down with his open palm, slapping the aura onto the parchment. Immediately, a variety of colors seemed to be painted upon the paper.
“Do you know what this is?” Gaston asked.
Adelia shook her head but leaned closer, trying to gain some insight.
“This is a special map that knows where you are in relation to the surrounding country. As you travel, the image will move to accommodate your environment.”
The young lady swallowed hard. “Can anyone make a map of someone else?”
“A highly regarded mage can,” Gaston clarified. Sensing that she was uneasy, he placed a hand on her shoulder. “Do not be worried. You would have to be in immediate proximity for someone to collect your whereabouts.”
She breathed a sigh of relief.
“This map in particular will be used so you can find your way to Folly’s Glen.” When she wore an inquisitive gaze once more, he grinned at her curiosity. “Forsynthia is the perfect place for me. It’s close to the southern seas if I ever need to charter a ship. It’s close to Gardone, so we’re always well protected.
“Another benefit is its proximity to supplies,” he continued. “Some staves and wands require a certain kind of wood to gain their power. To the south, there is an immense forest, watched over by elves. Nearly every kind of sorcerer’s tree is located in those woods.
“East of here, the Raster Springs provide us with magical water. You’d think that such a thing would be menial, but arcane springs are a rarity. There are only two I can recall that reside on Draconis. Of course, I am getting rather old and…
“My dear, I apologize,” Gaston said. “I’m rambling again, as I am oft to do. My point is Folly’s Glen is just as important to this locale as the rest. The place is known for its natural sorcery. Dozens of varieties of herbs grow within, making it ideal for collection.”
The sage slid his satchel off his shoulder. “Here,” he said. “Inside, you’ll find another tome with instructions on how to identify alchemical reagents in the wild. There are also individual pouches and vials you can use to separate your ingredients.
“Now, get going before I talk you into unconsciousness,” the sage bade. “We’ve already wasted enough time, and the afternoon sun will soon be here.”
“Thank you, Master Camlann,” the young lady said.
The wizard grinned. “Just Gaston will do.”
She smiled in reply, bowing before turning to head west. Folly’s Glen was nearby but still not as close as her mentor implied. His suggestion to get moving before the sun burned through the day was welcomed advice.
As the girl went on her way, Gaston turned and began back toward the keep. Along the way, he passed the wildflower fields. A black object hopped out of the flora every few moments, immediately sinking back within. Watching with intrigue, the sage waited until he was passed. He was sure he had been spotted but disregarded without a second thought.
“Keep her safe, Merlin,” Gaston quietly said.
Mageborn Page 3
