With p-Mayard’s return, Rhiann nestled under the covers and fell asleep. He dreamed of his earlier days in Thynna when he endured teasing from his now-friends Bo, Jethro, and Dean. As they entered adolescence the young threesome became more studious and accepting of Rhiann. However, the pressures of living in Thynna’s inner ward prevented the youths from fully following Rhiann’s path. Fact was… Rhiann’s legacy and relationship with his great uncle Mayard created a unique position for him. When he was not away with Mayard on some walkabout, he oft joined Bo, Jethro, and Dean in the libraries of Thynna. In 16 years’ calendar time Rhiann absorbed 300 years of knowledge… in terms of the world outside Thynna. Rhiann then dreamed of his mother Caye Klarje and her playful spellcasting in playgrounds of the outer ward of Thynna. Less advantaged children enjoyed her Magick shows.
Then…
Grayness entered his dreams.
Dreams…
A female warrior appeared in his dream. All sorcerers dreamed of Grayness and afterward awakened with new incantations etched in their minds. Seeing a visage was unusual. The matron’s firmness contrasted to the softness of his mother.
The woman spoke, “Rhiann, you are so like your Uncle Mayard. His legacy lies in your hands. The swordsmith’s work is completed. I am ready for your hand. Proceed with haste.”
Rhiann tried to speak but the visage faded. Phrases appeared in his mind. Rhiann awakened refreshed and went downstairs. Baron Albie Kirkey’s entourage was just departing. Cecelia Darktop bade her brother good-bye and returned to the kitchen. p-Mayard and Burgomaster Storming Norman twenty-four names Darktop sipped coffee and tried to avoid the still censuring gaze of Madam Darktop. Rhiann enjoyed breakfast. In a little while Longbeard nineteen-names arrived with a contingent of armed Gnomes. Cecelia Darktop returned with a basket of waybread. She was dressed in chainmail and carried a stout axe across her back.
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