* * *
With their bellies full and a hard day's ride behind them, Laedron and Marac were the only two left awake on their bedrolls. They both lay on their backs, staring at the infinite heavens full of twinkling stars.
“You've been a bit touchy today,” Laedron said. “Anything wrong?”
Marac glanced at the other two before speaking. “You could tell that, eh?”
“I just know you haven't been your normal self.”
“I didn't want to say anything. I've got a rash, too, and it's killing me,” Marac said.
“Why not? I can cure it in a flash.”
Marac shook his head. “A knight isn't supposed to complain and mope about. I take it very seriously.”
“Everybody needs help sometimes,” Laedron said. “Those best fit to succeed know when to ask for it.”
“All right. I'm not going to start an argument with you. I've yet to win one.”
“Because I'm always the sensible one,” Laedron said, smiling.
“No, it's because you never give up.”
Marac uncovered his legs, and Laedron's eyes opened wide. “Creator! Why didn't you tell me of this before?”
When Laedron touched the wounds, Marac hissed in pain. “Careful, would you?”
“This is bad, Marac. Some spots are bleeding.”
“Do what you must, just please don't poke at it anymore. And don't tell the others,” he said, taking Laedron by the shoulder.
Laedron nodded and drew his wand. He swished his hand to and fro. As the brilliant green light dripped onto Marac's wounds, his skin's color shifted slowly from a deep red to its normal tone. The scrapes sealed, and the surface became smooth and healthy in contrast to the blisters and bumps which had marred it.
Marac sighed in apparent relief. “Thank you.”
“Don't ever let it get that bad again.” To stave off the coming headache, Laedron rubbed his temples. “Let me know next time.”
Marac bowed his head. “Okay.”
“Get some sleep.” Laedron rolled onto his side. “We should make Pendlebridge by tomorrow evening.”
The Circle of Sorcerers: A Mages of Bloodmyr Novel: Book #1 Page 18
