Rhiann took and held the near weightless object. The little cherry-red, heart-shaped stone was precisely the size, shape, and color of the birthmarks on Rhiann and Mayard’s chins. Mayard’s tale asserted the mark graced the chin of the first sorcerer of Sagain Cydney Klarje.
Mayard said again, “One for everyone. Tomorrow I’ll tell you of Cydney Klarje’s first spells.”
One by one the young sorcerers descended the amphitheater steps and took a levitating amulet. Jethro, Bo, and Dean were the last three to accept the prizes.
The wandering Sorcerer Mayard Klarje addressed Jethro, “Touch the red mark of my face.”
Jethro stammered, “Uh… why, Teacher?”
Mayard calmly replied, “Touch it. It won’t hurt you.”
Jethro gingerly extended his right index finger and touched the red mark. He youth sighed with relief when nothing happened.
Mayard continued, “Now touch Rhiann’s mark.”
Jethro hesitated briefly and then did so.
Mayard followed, “Now touch your face.”
Once again young Jethro did as the sorcerer asked.
Mayard asked, “What did you feel when you touched our faces?”
Jethro answered. “Just skin, teacher.”
Mayard answered, “Correct. Did the red skin on Rhiann’s and my face feel different?”
Jethro replied, “No, Teacher, it just felt like skin.”
Mayard Klarje said, “Correct again, Jethro. Just because someone looks different, it doesn’t mean they are less significant and more importantly lack feelings. Magick is not to be used frivolously, young sorcerers. Think about the consequences of your actions. Always let your hearts guide your deeds.”
Jethro humbly said, “Yes, Teacher.”
benjamintowe 