A Slave to Magic

by Lana Axe

  “Amazing,” Nera said. “It took me the better part of a year to get through two of those, and I barely passed.” Sighing, she added, “This year will be much harder. I might need your help.” She flashed a weak smile before turning her attention to her own book.

  The four-hour carriage ride was uneventful, and soon they were looking at the stone buildings that made up the Wizard’s College. Students moved here and there, rushing to find the appropriate books and supplies before classes began the following day. Some of those running around appeared to be servants, likely running errands for their masters to spare them the added stress.

  “Should I retrieve your supplies for you?” Kwil asked.

  “No,” she replied. “We’ll take our stuff to the dormitory first, and then we’ll go together. I probably have about a dozen books to track down, and who knows what else they want me to have?”

  The carriage rolled to a stop outside one of the manor houses. “Help us with the bags,” Nera told the coachman. Grabbing her small satchel, she allowed Kwil to grab two of her bags to keep up the appearance that he was her slave. The trio stepped inside, the servants waiting back while Nera inquired of the staff about her room. Returning to their side, she said, “Third floor, second door on the left.”

  The mansion had the highest ceilings of any building Kwil had ever seen. Even for an establishment built by the wealthiest nobles, he found the furnishings to be over the top. All of the chairs were decorated with scrolling golden embellishments, and the walls were adorned with golden candelabrums. The price of the candles alone, which were burning despite the brightness of day, had to have cost a fortune.

  Trotting up the stairs single file, the trio found the room that would be Nera and Kwil’s home for the next several months. The coachman placed the bags near the door, expecting Kwil to handle the unpacking.

  “Thank you,” Nera said. “You may go.” With a bow, the Gatan spun around and walked away.

  Kwil was amazed at the extravagance of Nera’s room. Not only did she have a private bath, she had her own private library, stocked with various texts on magical subjects. A small servant’s room attached to hers was at least three times the size of the room Kwil had at the Orva manor. Stepping inside, he took notice immediately of the feather bed, writing desk, and wardrobe.

  “All of this is for me?” he asked.

  Nera replied, “Some wealthy students bring Gatan servants. They typically get better sleeping areas than humans.”

  Kwil couldn’t remember seeing any of the Gatan servants’ quarters at the Orva manor. Those rooms were not on his list for cleaning, so he had no need to go there. Setting his bag aside, he laid down on the mattress. “I’ve never slept anywhere so comfortable,” he declared. In fact, he wasn’t sure if he’d be able to sleep. His bones only had the experience of sleeping on a thin mat on top of a stone floor. Too much comfort might not agree with them, but he was happy to give it a try.

  “Obviously there’s no fireplace in there, so you can sleep in my room if you get cold this winter. There’s plenty of cushions, so take your pick.”

  Nera wasn’t kidding. In addition to plush carpeting underfoot, every chair had at least three pillows. Apparently students liked to be comfortable while they studied. Kwil hadn’t expected such lavish dormitories. A wizard was expected to study hard and stay clear of distractions, but after seeing the living area, it was hard to believe they’d be willing to leave their rooms long enough to attend classes.

  “I need to pick up my books from the library,” Nera said, tossing her bags to the side.

  “I can put those away for you,” Kwil offered.

  “We’ll do it later. Don’t you want to see the library?”

  “More than anything,” Kwil admitted.

  “Then let’s go,” Nera replied, patting him on the back. “Even though there aren’t any music books in there, I have to admit the library is impressive.”

  Together they crossed the campus, Kwil taking in the sights and sounds. There were small gardens everywhere, likely growing herbs and other ingredients necessary to craft potions. A large pond sat at the center of the grounds, where dozens of benches allowed students to sit and ponder in peace. Several white swans danced upon the water’s surface, stretching their wings and turning their faces to the sky. They were the prettiest birds Kwil had ever seen.

  As they approached the library, Kwil’s breath was stolen away. He paused, hoping to make the moment last a while longer. Its construction appeared ancient but well kept. The knowledge inside beckoned him, and he felt too overwhelmed to move.

  “Come on,” Nera said, nudging him forward. She grabbed the door handle and held it open for Kwil to step inside, a crooked grin on her face.

  Stepping inside, Kwil’s eyes grew wide with wonder. The smell of old pages met his nostrils, and he closed his eyes momentarily to enjoy it. When he opened his eyes again, he couldn’t begin to count the vast number of tomes lining the walls. Hundreds upon hundreds of shelves filled the center of the room, and four staircases led to even greater wonders on the floors above. Paintings of famous Gatan wizards adorned the walls, each of them staring down at the simple slave who had so boldly entered their presence. Kwil, nearly euphoric, became dizzy as he attempted to look everywhere at once.

  Lending a hand to steady him, Nera said, “Take it slow, Kwil. There’s a lot to see.” She could imagine herself having a similar reaction should she enter a vast collection of music. This was his idea of paradise, and she enjoyed seeing his reaction.

  For over an hour, Nera followed along as Kwil moved through the stacks, peering at an assortment of books. Few people were around, so no one noticed that the slave was leading his mistress. Nera enjoyed his enthusiasm, and she happily carried the books he wished to borrow while he kept his hands free to flip through more. Eventually, she said, “There’s a limit of ten.”

  Kwil hadn’t realized how many he’d collected. “I’m sorry,” he said, taking the stack from her. Scolding himself for being so thoughtless, he made a mental note to pay more attention. After all, he was the one who should be carrying her books, not the other way around.

  “I’ll just go grab my school texts and then we’ll be off,” Nera said. “You can wait by the door.”

  Nodding, Kwil carried the heavy stack of tomes toward the door and waited for his friend. When she returned, she was carrying six books of her own. “Now we can finish getting settled in,” she said.

  As they stepped out of the library, Kwil felt he was truly home. Here at his fingertips was all the information he could possibly desire. Thanks to Nera, he would have ample time to read and learn. With his friend at his side, he was no longer a slave—he was a wizard in the making.

  Chapter 5

  Within days of arriving at the College, Kwil and Nera settled into a routine. Kwil would study during the day while Nera attended classes. This allowed him to catch up to her, and she considered him at least as knowledgeable as any other second-year student. Every evening when she returned to her chambers, she would share with him what she had learned that day. Together they would complete her homework, and she was certain her marks would improve thanks to his help.

  Nera always took meals in her room, sharing whatever the school was serving with her friend. In his entire life, Kwil had never been offered so much to eat, and his body reacted favorably to the additional calories. Though still thin, his face shone with a radiance of good health since he no longer lacked vital nutrients.

  The runic language proved no match for Kwil’s sharp mind. He excelled at the subject, reading incantations with ease. Nera had great difficulty until Kwil suggested she put the symbols to music. Though they still gave her fits, she found it easier to remember what each rune stood for.

  With Kwil’s help in her studies, Nera found herself with more time to spend on her music. The previous year, she had spent many long hours laboring over her schoolwork, which took away from what she really wanted to do. Now she could si
t and play her lute every night, and her skills were improving. She challenged herself with more-difficult refrains, perfecting her technique and fine-tuning her own ear. Though she originally dreaded returning for a second year, she was glad she had made the decision to stay. She was enjoying her time with Kwil.

  One evening while she was strumming away, a thought occurred to her. “You know,” she began, “if you’re going to have four years of basic wizard’s training, that’s going to force me to stay as well.”

  “You don’t want to stay?” Kwil asked.

  “Not at all,” she replied. “I’ve frequently thought about running away.” Clutching at her lute, she said, “All I want to do is make music, but that isn’t good enough for my parents. They want a master wizard in the family.” Laughing, she added, “Maybe they should adopt you.”

  Kwil laughed, turning to look out the window toward the lake. “I’d love to stay here forever,” he admitted. “But if you decide to leave, then I’ll leave with you.” Turning back to face her, he said, “As long as I have some of these books and your friendship, I’ll be fine wherever I am.”

  It was the kindest thing he could have said to her. She fought back her tears, and said, “That’s very selfless of you, Kwil. You’re a true friend.” In her mind, he cared more for her than her own parents did. They were uninterested in her dreams, and they were determined to force her into a life that did not suit her. Kwil had been far more supportive and more family to her than they had ever been. All they seemed to care about was their own reputation among the wealthy. Having a musician for a daughter would bring shame on them, as the position was considered lowly and undesirable by the upper class. Despite the fact that nobles paid musicians to perform at their dinner parties, the musicians themselves were looked down upon. They could be entertaining, but they were uncivilized, as were all performers.

  Nera didn’t care what they thought of her. Becoming a wizard was not her desire, and ultimately, she would fail. Mastering the arcane required immense skill and too much study. If a student wasn’t fully committed, he wouldn’t succeed. Nearly any Gatan could learn basic spells, but to truly excel took dedication that she lacked. Only music mattered.

  “Do you think you’ll be content without becoming a master wizard?” she asked.

  Kwil didn’t need to think about it. “Who says I can’t become a master? I may never have a title from the College, but that won’t make me any less a wizard.”

  Narrowing her eyes, Nera replied, “You’re wise for someone so young.” Kwil’s life experience was far different from her own, and she decided that was what had given him his determination. Having the odds stacked against him, he would be forced to work harder to overcome them. She could see the determination in his eyes and knew nothing would stand in his way. Gi’gata would not be big enough for him. Somewhere was a land that would accept him as he was, and Nera hoped one day to see him succeed there. All he needed was a proper teacher—someone who knew far more than she.

  “How would you feel about talking to one of my teachers?” she asked. “Maybe one of them could be convinced to tutor you privately.”

  Kwil’s heart jumped to his throat. “I don’t think that’s a good idea, Nera. Humans are forbidden from practicing magic.”

  “I know, but you deserve a proper teacher,” she argued. “Besides, not all Gatans agree with that. Mistress Tress would probably agree to it. She’s open-minded, and she owns no slaves.”

  Shaking his head, Kwil replied, “I still don’t think it’s safe. I’d rather stay as we are. I’m already learning more than I ever dreamed.” The thought of confiding in someone else didn’t sit well with him. The law was clear—any human practicing magic was put to death. There was no way to know how Nera’s teacher would react.

  With a sigh, Nera dropped the subject. Kwil was frightened, and that was only natural. But Nera knew Mistress Tress could be trusted. She was honorable and forward thinking. If any of the masters at the College would be willing to teach Kwil, it was she. If she didn’t want anything to do with it, Nera trusted she would keep silent about Kwil’s learning.

  The following morning, Nera got herself ready for class with no obvious change in her demeanor. She didn’t want to alert Kwil, who might talk her out of what she was about to do. Unable to focus on her lessons, she instead tried to decide which words she would use when approaching Mistress Tress.

  Nera scanned her surroundings as she approached her teacher’s office. Few students were around, most of them with their noses buried in their books. It was unlikely anyone cared to overhear what she had to say, so she pressed on toward the door and knocked.

  “Enter,” a voice called from inside.

  Nera turned the handle and peered inside. Mistress Tress smiled and tucked away the lesson plans she had been preparing. Though Nera was not her finest student, she was a special girl with an endearing personality.

  “What can I do for you?” Tress asked. She motioned for Nera to have a seat.

  Seating herself across from the master wizard, she paused a moment, still trying to find the words she wanted to use. “I have this friend,” she began, haltingly. “He, well, err…”

  Tress folded her hands and rested her elbows against the desk. “You’ve come here for a reason, Nera.” She flashed her student a smile. “Out with it.”

  Taking in a deep breath, Nera tried to calm her nerves. What would Kwil say if he knew she was here? She already knew the answer. He would beg her not to speak of him. Mustering her courage, she decided it was too late to go back. This was Kwil’s only chance to become a true sorcerer. “I have a friend who is unable to study here at the College,” she explained. “He’s a promising young wizard, but his status won’t allow him entrance.”

  Tapping a finger against her lips, Tress sat back in her chair. “I think I understand,” she said. “Your friend is not of noble birth, and he hasn’t the funds to attend classes.”

  “Yes,” Nera replied, quickly looking away from her teacher’s eyes.

  “We do have scholarship programs for potential students who demonstrate significant talent,” Tress stated. “Normally they require the sponsorship of a professor.” Leaning forward, she added, “Mind you, it’s rather difficult to be chosen for one of those scholarships. It’s also infrequent. In my twelve years teaching, I’ve seen only one student granted any award money.”

  “If my friend could prove to you that he’s ready, would you sponsor him?” Nera asked, her eyes hopeful.

  “Perhaps,” Tress replied. “I’d have to meet with him first and determine his skill level.”

  “He knows as much as I do,” Nera declared. “He’s taught himself everything.”

  “That is impressive,” Tress replied, raising an eyebrow. “But I’m not sure that will be enough. The requirements for scholarship are set high. Probably too high.”

  “Could you tutor him?” Nera asked, almost pleading. “He learns quickly, and he won’t take much of your time.”

  Tress sighed. “I’m not sure I have the time, honestly.” Seeing the desperate look on her student’s face, she asked, “When could I meet him? I have to talk to this person before I can decide anything.”

  Nera thought for a moment. “I suppose I could arrange a meeting today if you have time.” Nera’s voice grew thinner as she spoke. At some point she would have to reveal to Tress that her friend was a human slave. She was going to find out when she met him, and it would be better to know beforehand if that would be a problem.

  Noticing Nera’s frustration, Tress asked, “Is there something else?”

  Shifting uneasily in her seat, Nera tried to decide what to say next. Racing through her mind were many different scenarios, most of them bad. Would Tress be willing to listen once she knew the truth? Would she be angry? Was it possible she would be open to the idea? Nearly panicking, Nera wondered if she should just drop the subject and leave now before things got worse. Before she could stand up, her teacher spoke again.
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  “It’s all right, Nera,” she said. “You can trust me.”

  Her words seemed sincere, and Nera wanted desperately to believe her. Steadying her breathing as best she could, Nera said, “My friend is a human.”

  Tress’s jaw dropped open slightly, but she remained calm and silent. Nera’s eyes darted side to side, searching for what to do next. A few moments of silence passed between the two as Tress processed the information. “Your human friend is skilled at magic?” she finally asked. “He has taught himself to do this?”

  Nera’s heart pounded in her ears as she replied, “Yes, ma’am.” She felt a tightness in her throat as she realized what her teacher was thinking. Luckily, she had not mentioned Kwil’s name or that he was the human working for her. It would not spare him from suspicion, but she might be able to convince her that she was speaking of some other human.

  Crossing her arms, the master sorceress let out an audible sigh. “This is a serious crime, Nera. How could you be a part of something like this?”

  Things had gone from bad to worse. Nera had expected Tress to be more open-minded and unlikely to have this reaction. The law was wrong, and Nera wanted nothing more than to shout that fact at the woman she had trusted. But that would not help the situation. Nera had already made a grave error, and now Kwil’s life could be in danger. Staying calm was her only option. Perhaps she could control the damage she had done.

  “I didn’t realize it was a crime,” Nera replied, attempting to save face. If Tress had her dragged away as a criminal, there would be no one to protect Kwil. The authorities would assume it was him she had spoken of, and he would be executed without a trial. And it was all Nera’s fault.

  “Come now,” Tress said, not believing her. “You’re a grown woman who has studied in the finest schools. You must be aware of the law.”