Creators Guild: A Wizard's Beginning

by R. W. Weston

  "Roland, it’s time to learn how to call the elements, this is something you will need to know before tomorrow. So I'm afraid there will be little rest this night," stated Maglin.

  He was excited for this, he had now been waiting over two months, traveling and learning the fundamentals of magic, but until now not able to call it. Ty continued about his routine, he had gotten so used to of taking care of the camp. The preparations were a little different today then they had been, on account that they were leaving in the morning.

  "Listen well, for this is not to be taken lightly. The elements are what control all that goes on in life, from the greatest creation to the least of all things. When you finally get the spells down, you will be in control of these very elements.

  Let’s start with something simple, we will call the wind. You must focus on what you want to do, finding your personal center, but being careful not to enter fully as you did last night. The true name of the wind is Polmo, when you find your center, concentrate and call its name. You will know when you have been connected to it, now try it."

  It took him a minute to find his center; it did come easier now that he knew what it felt like, as well as what to do. When he found it he quietly whispered the word, "Polmo," just as the word left his mouth he could feel something strange, it was as though something had just connected itself to him. It wasn’t heavy or feel like something physical, he slowly opened his eyes, seeing for the first time the strands of magic.

  Never before did he feel so alive, so strong and yet vulnerable at the same time. He could see the element of wind take a physical form in front of his eyes, slowly he held out his hand, trying to grasp on to the end of what appeared to be a cord. When he finally got it the surge of power that he felt knocked him down. He quickly lost his center and in an instant he was back in reality.

  Maglin was just standing there looking at him, with a small smile on his face. "So you saw it did you, very good, but you were not cautious like I have taught you, you tried to grab it didn't you?"

  "Yes, it was so beautiful, like nothing I had ever seen before. It felt like it was calling to me, but when I touched it, well you know what happened."

  "Yes boy, like many things in this life. Magic is alive, and with no power to control it, it can destroy you. Next time you will learn to be a little more careful, the consequences can be much more deadly than that," Maglin said, a strong hint of caution carried with it. "Now we shall try fire, this is stronger than the last so be careful, the true name of fire is "Shaleel," remember that. Now find your center again and try it, I will join you when it is time to come back."

  He sat down this time, afraid of what might happen. He found his center and whispered the word "Shaleel," once again he felt the sensation come over him of being attached to something. Opening his eyes, he saw the fire elements, it was not at all like he had imagined, rather than being a red hot flame it was more of an orange cord, waving smoothly at him. He had the desire to reach up and grab the cord again, but remembering what had happened to him when he touched the wind, and the caution given from Maglin, he quickly put his hand back down.

  Maglin appeared out of thin air, startling him a little. He slowly walked over next to Roland just looking at the cord with him. "My boy, this is the power of the elements, it’s a wonderful feeling to be one with them is it not," he whispered. Roland nodded his head in agreement. "Let's go, take my hand, the first few times you disconnect yourself from the elements is a little difficult.

  As they separated themselves Roland felt a little lost and disoriented. He knew he was sitting when he started, but now he was a few feet away.

  "That was very good you are able to learn quickly. Soon you will be able to see what is going on in the realm of reality while you are still connected to the elements. It is now time to try water, this true name is "Aqma," now try it. I will retrieve you again when you are through."

  Finding his center was easier each time that he attempted it, he still needed to close his eyes to concentrate when he started. After a few short calming breaths he was able to find it. Whispering the word that would connect him to water, "Aqma," he immediately knew he was connected and opened his eyes once again, there in front of him was another smooth cord, waving ever so slightly at him, this one a bluish color. Maglin soon entered and took him back to reality.

  "Very well done, now for the last one you will learn for now. Earth's true name is "Teran," you know what to do now."

  Quickly finding his center he whispered the name "Teran." This feeling was different than before. This feeling came from below making him jump a little. When he opened his eyes this time he saw that he had been connected to the ground. A brown vine came up and wrapped itself around his legs; he was surprised that he didn’t feel restrained. Through this bond with the earth he could feel all the creatures that were on or in it. He knew the ground was happy, asleep for the time below the snow.

  When Maglin appeared he was a little sad to be leaving again. The feeling of being connected to the elements was so peaceful; he didn’t feel any of the pains he had been. By the time that they finished the lessons all three of them were tired. They all decided to go to sleep, knowing that this was the last night they would be sleeping on the ground. Neither Roland nor Ty slept much because they were excited to go into the castle.

  Chapter 5

  The Wizards Council

  hat night felt like it lasted forever, when they saw the first signs of the sun coming up they decided it was time to break camp. Maglin was just waking up; he too was in a hurry to get into the castle. Having been away for such a long time he was anxious to meet some of his old comrades and find the news of the world from them.

  They walked back to the spot where they had been the day before. Maglin went a little ways ahead of them to open the protective warding. Both of the boys were surprised to see the green grass and blue lake as they had the day before, now contrasting against the blackening sky.

  When you looked at the shield you could only see a slight glimmer. Roland picked up a small stone and threw it at the shield to see how strong it was, instead of bouncing off as he expected it to, it simply disappeared.

  "When we enter here you are to remain quiet, I will do all the speaking. Roland when you are asked any question, you are to respond quickly and honestly. These men will know the true intents of your heart and the truthfulness of what you speak. Be warned they will not tolerate falsehoods, and once you enter here there is only one way to leave, that is to complete your training. If you do not accept the responsibility they are going to give you, then I'm sorry to say you will be put to work tending the house. Tell me now are you sure you are ready for this, there will be no turning back?"

  "Yes," they both said without a moment's hesitation.

  "Rashness, that will quickly be resolved," he thought to himself.

  Maglin took a few steps forward walking through the shield. As he did it appeared that it softened and flowed around him like water, quickly solidifying afterwards. The two looked at each other and together walked up to the shield. Ty stuck his hand out first and felt the shield, at first it felt solid, but as he pushed on it the brick gave way. He could feel the heat of the sun on the other side. Surprised he quickly pulled his had back through.

  "It doesn’t hurt, come on let's get in there, it’s warm and dry," he said, full of excitement.

  He quickly walked through. Roland took just a moment longer and decided it was time. He wanted to know more about his mother and they had answers inside. As Ty had told him, at first the shield felt solid, but it quickly gave way to let him through.

  The weather on the inside of the domed shield was perfect. There was a slight breeze, just enough to cool everything down while the sun shone brightly. The lake that surrounded the small island was a clear blue; allowing them to see to the bottom. They could see all the fish that were swimming, neither of them had seen that many fish in their lives. The only ones they saw were dead that the merchants brou
ght from the sea to sell, and then only rarely did that happen.

  Yet here in front of them was a vast array of different kinds of fish, all with different colors and patterns. Around the lake was a walkway, full of green grasses and beautiful spring flowers. A ways down the shore they saw a small dock jutting out onto the lake. A small boat was moored there with what appeared to be a small figure standing next to it.

  "Come boy's it's time we enter," said Maglin, leading the way to the dock. "Good seasons Master Jonan, how fares the travels."

  "They fare me well as always, how fare you," came the reply. Jonan was an older man; his hair was brilliant silver, a strong contrast from his dark tanned skin, probably from working many cycles out in the sun. He stood tall, but when he walked he quickly hunched over, his arms hanging down to his knees.

  Although he looked misshapen, he had a distinct advantage when rowing the boat; they quickly got in and started across the lake. Jonan’s arms were strong and built from what would have been many cycles at this task. He was very proficient in his movements, taking strong pulls and gliding smoothly across the water.

  As they were going across, the two boys looked over the side of the boat, amazed at the variety of fish that were swimming just below them. They quickly reached the island; it was larger then what it appeared at first. The castle stood in the middle of a large garden, surrounded by hedges that formed a labyrinth, and a wide variety of flowers and herbs.

  There were people working in the gardens that laid just to the south of the building. Most of them were dressed in plain brown robes. A few who seemed to be teaching and giving guidance were in brown robes with white trim along the neckline, arm openings and the hem line. The building itself was a wonder to look at, standing at best judgment nearly three hundred partels, with large carvings on all the walls.

  Maglin quietly led the way through the hedges, indeed it was a labyrinth. Maglin seemed to know all the shortcuts; he would say something and a hedge would open up like a door. He took them in almost a straight path to the castle. As they got closer they could make out the carvings on the walls. They were giant murals, depicting a teacher with young students, learning how to control magic. They could also hear the voices of those who were working in the gardens. It was hard to tell which ones were male and female with them all dressed the same.

  When they reached the front doors they were stopped by two guards, Maglin quickly went to speak to them, and shortly they were in the castle. It was surprisingly bright inside; it appeared as though the sun was shining right through the stone walls. Roland thought he could see movement through parts of the walls, but a closer look revealed there were windows lining them. They were covered somehow to make the outside look like solid stone.

  The inside was elaborately decorated with large rugs coving much of the floor with tapestries hanging along the walls. They were quickly led to a large room, where they were told to sit until it was time to meet with Petron lon Bertimier, master of the apprentices.

  "This place is huge; how come we didn't see it day's ago? And who are all those people out there?" Ty asked Maglin.

  "You are a curious one aren't you? Very well sit down; it may be awhile before we are seen. Those people are those who come to be tested of their own free will, but as I told you once you enter you can't leave without completing the training. If they are found with no ability, we hire them as servants, they are happy for the most part; they get their room and board for working here.

  The shield we walked through is what keeps this place hidden from the outside. To anyone but a wizard it looks like a large field, for those who mistakenly wander this way we have set up directional wards that lead the people around the field.

  The lake is magical as well, it is meant to keep those inside in, and those outside out. Most of those fish out there will kill any person swimming, so I wouldn't advise it. The castle itself was built for the purpose of training young wizards. We have chosen this place because it was easy to conceal, and we needed a place to avoid the Legion.

  The island is called Olental, after one of the founders of the house. He is the one that gave us the idea of isolating ourselves from the rest of the world. Thus there is only one way on or off of the island, which is by ferry, and you met the ferry master. I will tell you this now; training to become a wizard is not simple. It will take time and a great deal of dedication on your part Roland. I still remember coming here when I was young. The training almost did me in, aside from the chores that I was expected to accomplish.

  Back then we didn’t have nearly as many servants as we do now, but I assure you we can still find work to keep both of you busy. And when you get so frustrated with everything and you want to leave, be warned Master Jonan will not take anyone across without the permission of the wizards."

  "Those people outside, that had the white trim on their clothing who are they?" asked Roland.

  "They are possibly the only exception to our rule on leaving. Each season we allow certain people in, under strict instructions. Royalty is one of them, we allow young princes to come to us for learning, in hopes that they will rule with equality. Many believe it is they who run their country, but it is not so.

  The commoner has more control over a country than any other; they are the ones who supply it with money, food, and protection. If a young ruler does not learn and understand this concept, then I'm afraid the country will quickly be destroyed, mostly from within."

  "How is it that the commoner can control a country like this and not even know it?" asked Ty.

  "That is something that will be learned here, others that are allowed for a short season are scholars. They bring in the newest information from the entire known world, without them we to would lose touch with it. They will be the ones who will teach you all about the world, while we teach you about magic.

  The last that are allowed to come and leave again are religious men, they bring with them history. They also are able to interpret ancient writings that are brought to us every so often. They will teach you about the great creator. We must always remember it was he who gave us this opportunity to serve others, and so we learn about him and are able to better serve him."

  "Wizard Maglin," said a servant with a soft voice. "The council has taken leave for the night; they send their sincerest apologies for having made you wait. There have been accommodations made for you and your guests; if you will please follow me to a private dining room you will now be served."

  The three of them followed the young lady back to the dining room, it was not small however. By his best judgment Roland thought it was at least three times the size of the common room back at the inn in town. A large chandelier a few feet above the center of the table lit the room.

  On the table was laid out a roasted pig with steamed potatoes, carrots, and beats. Next to each plate was placed a loaf of fresh bread and butter. For drinks they were offered fresh wine or ale.

  After having traveled for so long and living off nothing but dried meat a few vegetables and stale cheese, both Roland and Ty ate like kings. After eating enough to feed a small army they were taken to separate rooms for the night. Each room was roughly the size of a house, with a fireplace, wash basin, small reading area, and an oversized bed.

  Roland had gotten undressed down to his underclothes, and was about to lay down for the night, excited to be able to sleep on a real bed for a change when there was a knock on his door.

  "Master Roland, would you like a bath drawn before turning in?" called a servant from the hallway.

  "Yes, that would be nice he said," caught off guard. "This is going to be great," he thought to himself. A few of the servants brought in a large wooden tub and placed it in front of the fireplace; they quickly filled it with a few buckets of hot water and left the room. He got undressed and got in the tub. The warmth of the water quickly soaked into his bones and loosened his muscles. He woke up a little later because the water was getting cold.

  He got out of the tub and fou
nd fresh clothes laid out on the bottom of the bed. He was a little embarrassed not knowing who had brought them in. He got out and quickly dressed in front of the fire to avoid getting cold and then crawled into bed. He quickly fell asleep covered by the warmth of the goose down comforter.

  When he woke the next morning there was a tray on a table next to the wash basin. He got up, dressed, washed his face and sat down to eat breakfast. There was a large plate covered with spiced apples, eggs, potatoes, and a glass of chilled goats’ milk. Maglin came soon after he was finished eating, Ty was already with him. They walked down stairs and waited for their interview with the council.

  "Wizard Maglin, Wizard Petron and the others will see you now," said a servant. He led them down a hall to a set of large doors.

  "Remember what I told you yesterday. Keep your answers simple and direct, and above all tell the truth. They will know the minute you lie, and do whatever it is they ask of you. This will be your only chance at getting in," whispered Maglin as the guards at the doors pushed them open.

  The room was large and beautifully decorated. Along one of the walls were giant windows, the large ornate drapes opened wide to let in the morning light. On the back wall sat a series of high back wooden chairs, from the distance they were at it looked like they were padded very well. The room was surrounded by large columns carved from marble spanning almost forty partels high. They seemed to glow from the reflection of the sun. They stood in amazement for a second taking in the extravagance of the room.

  "Wizard Maglin, please come forward," came a deep voice. Roland had not seen the men come in and fill in the seats. The gentleman sitting in the middle seat was the one calling to Maglin now. Maglin walked to the center of the room and bent to one knee. "Seeker what have you brought to us this day?" asked the man.