City of Sorcerers (43 page)

Why?" the chief demanded.

"I think we have learned enough from our mistakes to try it again. We could tear down the city walls, reconstruct the buildings, begin teaching magic-wielders here again. But this time we will make the city open and accessible to anyone."

Lord Athlone shook his head at his daughter's unexpected enthusiasm. "Rafnir, did you know about this?"

The young sorcerer nodded, grinning. "We've talked about this for days. I would like to give it a try."

"You may be on your own here for a long time," Gabria warned. "Sixteen magic-wielders hardly make a city, and those few we have left want to spend some time with their clans."

Kelene's and Rafnir's eyes met. "We know," she said. "It is only a beginning."

By the gods, Gabria thought to herself, how true that was, and if Kelene wanted to take her place in that grand beginning, let no one stand in her way!

Gabria pulled her daughter to her feet and gently touched the splinter glowing under Kelene's wrist. "By Amara and her gift to her chosen p.eople, I give you my blessing, daughter. Live and prosper in this city and bring it to new life." Then she rook Kelene into her arms and sealed her words with a proud embrace.

And so in the ancient city of Moy Tura, what was ended began again.

• CITY OF SORCERERS
  
• by MARY H. HERBERT