The Last Wizard of Eneri Clare (84 page)

“Master, if it is finished, then why are you still here, in my mind?”

Xaarus’ smile broadened, “Because I am not in your mind, dear boy. I am standing right here beside you on solid ground. You did it. You brought me home.”

Tvrdik’s eyes widened, and a single wordless sob escaped his lips. He shook his head once, a bit like a dog does after a rainstorm. Then, as it dawned on his consciousness that Xaarus was there in the flesh, his face came alive with joy, and he whispered, “The gods be thanked. Welcome home.” And he hugged his mentor with a child’s enthusiasm.

Their worst fears alleviated, and the realization of their success beginning to dawn on them, the others rushed up for hugs and handshakes all around. Great shouts and cheers and dragon trumpeting filled the dawn sky with such a cacophony that later they all swore that they had expected their celebration to be heard all the way back at Theriole.

“Sir, my name is Andrus, and I am currently the head Palace Physician. It is an honor to meet you in person, sir.”

“Do I know you, Andrus? Forgive me if I have forgotten…” chatted Xaarus, shaking the man’s proffered hand.

“No, sir. I came to Theriole after you had already…left. But I have heard so much about you from so many sources that I almost feel as though I know you.” Andrus was a bit star struck. Xaarus leaned in very close, “Don’t believe everything you hear.” He winked at the healer.

Andrus forged on, “I-I wanted to ask your permission to examine you, sir, and make sure that all is well after your…journey. Just a precaution, you understand…part of my function here…”

“Of course, my good man. Examine away. I think you will find everything in good working order. I feel fine. I could sleep for a week, but otherwise, not bad, considering…” Andrus thanked him and went to work, still a bit in awe.

Mark and Delphine and Jorelial Rey were crowded around Tvrdik, congratulating him. Mark was pumping his hand, “You did it! You brought him back from the future. That was incredible.”

Delphine intervened, “I may be no physician, but I picked up a thing or two from all of our Thursday healing marathons. Why don’t you sit back down and let me check you over? Andrus will be here in a moment. He’s going over Xaarus.”

Tvrdik managed a faint smile, but still looked somewhat dazed and confused. He allowed himself to be guided back to the chair and ministered to. Warlowe arrived with a skin of cool water, having brought one to Xaarus as well.

“You must be thirsty. It’s only water. Will that do, or would you prefer something a little stronger – wine, perhaps?”

“No, water is fine, Warlowe. How kind of you to bring it. I am awfully thirsty; give it here.” He took a long draught from the water skin.

Jorelial Rey laid a hand on the young wizard’s shoulder, her face unreadable, “I can see you are in very good hands here, so, if no one minds, I would like to go check on Tash and the rest of the dragons. I shouldn’t be long.”

Tvrdik looked up at her, “No, of course, go ahead. Please thank them for me, especially Tashroth.”

“I will, but you’ll be doing it yourself soon, I’m sure.” She started away, but stopped and turned back to him, “Tvrdik?”

“Hmmm?”

“Well done. I’m…I’m really happy for you.” She turned and headed over to Tashroth, Tvrdik following after her with his eyes. As she came to the green dragon, who was in conversation with Danoral and Candelinda, he swung his great head around to welcome her.

“Is he recovering, little one? Is he all right?”

“Andrus will be over in a moment, but he seems well. Quite a bit dazed, but all right. He asked me to thank all of you – for the inspiration, and the brilliant execution too. Xaarus is fine, Danoral. Thank you for your part in this. It will be a real coup to bring Xaarus back to Theriole, alive and well, after all this time. The people will be overjoyed, and will take it as an omen of good fortune for the future. No doubt, it will be. More good news to celebrate, eh? Anyway, we owe all of you dragons a great debt for this. Anything I can give or do for you that is in my power, just ask, and it will be arranged. Tell them, Tash, please.

Tashroth’s laughter rumbled out, low and earthy, “Dearest, we are all delighted that our idea bore such joyful fruit. Xaarus is well-loved among our kind, and we rejoice in his return. We are also content that Lord Drogue is no longer a threat to dragonkind and our way of life. Now, each of us may continue to live as he chooses in peace and freedom. In addition, we have all experienced something new and fascinating here today that we will long remember. We have explored, and learned, even about ourselves and our own potentials. These are things that bring our kind great joy. There is no other gift, necessary, little one, but we appreciate your generous impulse.”

“Are all of you all right Tash? The dragons suffered no ill effects?”

“No, on the contrary. We are feeling quite exhilarated by the joining and expanding of our consciousness. We are interested in exploring further the power of the collective, and the ancient skills we had almost forgotten. But all of that will wait for another time, as most are eager to take their leave and return to their homes.”

“So soon, Tash? May we not tempt them back to Theriole for a while longer? It was wonderful to have so many of your kinsmen and women around.”

“Most gracious. Candelinda will stay on awhile, but the others are missing their homelands, and their normal routines. Our work here is done, and they would beg to be released as soon as is convenient.”

“Oh, of course, if that is your desire.” All of the dragons were focused on her by now, their large, bottomless eyes seeming to search her soul. She addressed the whole group as one, “For all you have done for me, for these two wizards, and for our kingdom and all of its citizens, we are forever in your debt. From henceforth and ever after, the royal flag of Eneri Clare will bear the image of a dragon, without whose generosity we might not now have a free and peaceful kingdom.” The dragons exchanged glances and nods, and made sounds of approval. The Lady Regent went on, “On behalf of all, I pledge you eternal friendship and support, and bid you farewell as you return to your homes and families. Be welcome always to come and visit us again any time, or to call upon us for aid in any circumstance.” The great, colorful beasts continued snorting and nodding, regarding her with those huge, glowing eyes, and with what she could only guess were something close to smiles. But before any of them could make a move to leave, Xaarus approached the saurian circle, Tvrdik still under his protective wing.

“I beg your pardon if I am interrupting something, my dear, but do you suppose the two of us could have a moment alone with the dragons, to speak with them one last time?”

“I was just leaving. Oh, Tvrdik, I almost forgot to give you these…” She handed him the precious spectacles, which he received with a look of relief, but no words. “Dragons, I wish you safe travels. Tash, Candelinda, will you be near?”

“If you are staying a while, we were thinking of having a bit of a hunt…mind-melding is famishing work.” Candelinda offered.

“That’s fine. Take your time. We should all rest before going back. Oh! If all the dragons are leaving, how will we get everyone and everything back to Theriole?”

“We will take it in shifts and all will be taken care of. Go and eat and rest. We will return in the afternoon.”

“All right, Tash. I’ll look forward to your return.”

He nuzzled her, and whispered, “Once again, dearest, you have distinguished yourself with the respect you show my kinsmen. You have garnered much goodwill among dragon kind this day. I am proud of you.”

Jorelial Rey grinned, “Maybe I learned something at Dad’s knee about diplomacy after all.” He winked at her, and she turned, heading back to where Mark and Delphine seemed to be waiting for her, while Tvrdik and Xaarus walked among the dragons. Looking back, she saw them deep in conversation, and then, both standing still, silent, eyes closed, faces lifted, as the great beasts also sat in communion together, eyes flashing. A tiny pang of jealousy disturbed her. She was the one who was supposed to have the special, unique bond with dragons, after all. But the thought only lasted a moment, as she watched them take off, one by one, and fly away in every direction, leaving the two wizards alone on the ground, earthbound and sighing. At least she knew Tashroth would always be back for her.

“Rel?” Delphine called, and then came up to meet her. “You know, we did bring along a few provisions just in case. I’ll bet we could fix up some bread and cheese and fruit for everyone if you thought it a good idea?”

“It’s a very good idea, Sweet Pea. We’ll be resting here for a little while before we try to go back. Most of the dragons have gone, now. Tash and Candelinda are off hunting, and will ferry us all back later. So, it’s…let me see…just the seven of us. A bite would be most welcome, and maybe even a nap. Besides, I need some time to figure out how to bring a wizard who’s been missing and presumed dead for twelve years, back to life.”

Sitting around the campfire, enjoying a simple meal, they all spent the time getting to know the real Xaarus, or in some cases, getting re-acquainted. Andrus was dazzled by the charming, witty gentleman, who was equally at home in a musty library, a pub, or a High Court function. Xaarus was legend to him, and he asked a hundred questions, and listened with delight to numerous anecdotes and stories. Warlowe extended the old man a warm greeting, welcoming him back with genuine affection. Xaarus inquired about his family, recalling names and interests, and the two of them indulged in a few happy reminiscences.

“And little Delphine. Last time I saw you, you were a chubby toddler with red curls – always laughing, always bringing home stray cats, or injured birdlings. You were the apple of your father’s eye, and now grown up beautiful, and wise, and kind. Take good care of this one, master bard, and thank your lucky stars that she has fastened her affections on you. She had all of our hearts at court almost from the moment she was born.” Delphine blushed, and Mark smiled, knowing the truth of the old wizard’s words. There was some discussion between them of the Lady Brendelle, her transformation, their reunion, and how highly she had spoken of Xaarus’ kindness to her in her darkest hour. Xaarus nodded, pleased, “A little kindness and compassion, my children, they cost us so little. But they may mean the world to the person on the receiving end. In my
long
experience, it is rare that I have seen any heart, or any situation that cannot be transformed with enough love, and enough kindness.” Rel and Delphine exchanged a surprised look, remembering that Delphine had used almost those exact words on the battlefield only weeks before, concerning baby Drake. Delphine shivered with the strangeness of it.

At last, Xaarus’ keen eye fell upon Rel, who squirmed with discomfort under it, despite the warmth and admiration in that regard. “Jorelial Rey. What an amazing young woman you have grown into. You know, I sent Tvrdik to you on purpose, because I was certain he would find in you the one powerful ally he needed, and I was right. Look at the marvels the two of you have accomplished together in such a short time. Your father – bless his soul and I miss him sorely – would be bursting with pride over you, my dear, as I am over my boy here. He touched Tvrdik’s hand, and there was a moment of awkward glances all around between Tvrdik and Rel, Rel and Delphine, Tvrdik and Xaarus, Xaarus and Rel. No one replied, though Jorelial Rey smiled and acknowledged the old man’s compliment with a coy bob of her head.

Tvrdik had been silent throughout the long, sociable meal, picking at his bread and cheese, alert to the many conversations, but contributing little to them. No one thought very much of it. They all assumed that he was weary from a sleepless night, and a harrowing ordeal, and needed a little rest to be back to himself again. But now, Xaarus, sensing that he had blundered into some small minefield that he wasn’t exactly up to date on, found a way to break the tension. Leaning in to Jorelial Rey, he frowned and said, “What’s that?” Flinching, she replied, “What’s what?” Xaarus pretended to study her head, “Why, there. Behind your ear…there’s something there. What is that?” He reached around behind her left ear as she sat mystified, and pulled out a shining bit of silver, a coin with his own face stamped upon it. On an instinct, Tvrdik reached into his pocket, but his own coin was still safe and sound in its usual place, where Delphine had replaced it after the rescue. The redheaded girl now squealed in delight, and Jorelial Rey melted into easy laughter.

“You remembered! You used to do that to me on every visit, and I never questioned it, even when I was a teenager. I
loved
that trick. Look, Tvrdik. I have my own now.” She held it up, beaming, years of cares falling away from her face. Tvrdik responded with an unconvincing half-smile.

Rel’s expression shifted to concern for him, “Goodness, you must be beyond exhaustion. What are we thinking? So sorry, Tvrdik. Let’s find the hero of the hour a place to lie down for awhile. I could do with a bit of a nap myself. What about the rest of you?”

And so, gathering up the blankets and cushions they had brought, along with the one cot, they all found a place to curl up by the fire, and fell asleep.

FORTY-FOUR
What Love Can Transform

T
ASHROTH AND CANDELINDA SOARED IN
and woke them all not long after midday. They opened their eyes to a brilliant blue sky, tangible sunshine, and white, puffy clouds sailing along on a breeze from over the water. Everyone was a little disoriented by the odd schedule that had them waking with the sun at its zenith. But they were all relieved to see Xaarus actually still with them, flesh and blood, so they knew the events of the early morn were more than just some collective bizarre dream. Jorelial Rey had been half-awake throughout the morning, thinking through her options on what to do next. No one had dared to plan ahead, in case the rescue attempt had failed. But, now, she gathered her small company: the two wizards, two dragons, her sister and brother in law, the physician, and the employee who seemed more like family. She told them all that she had been considering all morning, and would very much like to give both Tvrdik and Xaarus a chance to return to full strength before being thrust into the public eye. She felt they needed rest, and a chance to acclimate to new circumstances before their days were overwhelmed with fans and well-wishers.

“So, I am asking you all to keep this news quiet for just a few days, and I’d like all of you to come back with me to Theriole, where I can better keep you under my wing. I will arrange for suitable quarters there for anyone who doesn’t already have them. Then, we’ll begin to plan a grand banquet for, say, a week from now, where Xaarus can be formally presented as returned from long exile, and can resume his post as Court Wizard. Staying at the palace will also give you two mages time to sort out what will happen with The Cottage. I am content to let you decide which of you will live there. There is always a place at Theriole for either of you. After you are presented to the people, Xaarus, I’m afraid you’ll be subjected to all sorts of public appearances and functions. I will try to keep things from getting too taxing, but, sir, you have always been well-loved here. Everyone will want a glimpse of you, or a personal moment.

“Not to forget our closest friends, who knew of our purpose here today, and would never forgive me if they did not get to embrace their old friend right away, I will host a small dinner in the private dining room this evening. I would like all of you, and your families to be there, and I will invite Verger, Lord Corbin Maygrew, Bargarelle, and Stewart of course – oh, and Mr. and Mrs. Praeger. I think that covers all the important players. Does this plan meet with everyone’s approval?”

There were nods and exclamations of affirmation all around.

“My, my. You
have
learned a thing or two about taking charge of a situation, my dear, haven’t you,” Xaarus called out in good humor. The Lady Regent searched his face for signs of sarcasm, but found nothing but pride and delight. A broad smile spread across her face, as she replied, “Thank you. It will be wonderful to have you back with us where you belong, dear Xaarus. I think you will find that in the most important ways, very little has changed. Ask for anything you need or desire, and we will be happy to do our utmost to make you feel comfortable, and welcome.” There was applause at that, and a few shouts of, “Hear, hear!”

They set about packing the chairs, provisions, and equipment in compact bundles on Tashroth’s back, while Candelinda took Mark and Delphine back to Theriole. Their assignment was to assure those who waited for word that Xaarus would indeed be coming, and to start making arrangements for supper that night.

Tashroth carried most of the supplies, along with Warlowe, who was a bit nervous to be sent on a dragonflight alone, but managed, nevertheless. He was to find Bargarelle and enlist the Steward’s aid in unloading everything else Tashroth carried, as well as in arranging for rooms. Rel sat by the campfire with Andrus and the two wizards, waiting the next shift of dragon transport, but enjoying the lack of urgency for a change. She realized that a very unfamiliar feeling of peace was beginning to descend on her being, now that all that she had dreaded was done, and all that she had worked for had come to fruition. The only dark spot marring her deep joy was that Tvrdik was still uncommunicative and withdrawn. He hadn’t said much of anything, in fact, all day, which was not normal for him. Xaarus was making a point of staying by his side, keeping a watchful eye on the younger wizard. Before they had packed most everything, Andrus asked if he wasn’t feeling well, and might he prefer to be strapped into the cot for the return trip? Tvrdik thanked him for his concern, and replied that he was fine, and would be more than able to travel as everyone else would. Whenever anyone tried to engage him in conversation, his answers were polite, but curt, and he offered no more than what was required. When Tashroth returned, Rel went to greet him and voiced her concerns about Tvrdik.

“He does not seem at all himself, Tash. Do you suppose he will recover with rest, or could something have gone more wrong than we thought?”

Tash blinked and felt for the young mage’s aura with his mind. “It was a taxing ordeal for anyone to have endured, only hours ago, and at the time there were moments when we were all very concerned for him. But his energy feels whole, now, and strong – in the main, recovered. No, to me, he seems more like a man consumed with his own thoughts.”

“But, how can we help him? He is so closed to everyone. This should be his most triumphant day, and yet he seems so…so…detached.”

“Let him be, dear one. Many things are changing around him – around all of you – that require adjustment. When he is ready to share his inner world with someone, you will know.”

“If you say so, Tash,” she sighed, “you are almost never wrong.”

They doused the fire with extra care, looked around one last time at the beautiful, pristine lakeshore that held so many important memories. Then Xaarus helped Andrus up onto Candelinda, climbing on after with practiced grace. Jorelial Rey found her accustomed seat on Tashroth, and reached a hand down for Tvrdik, as they had done so many times before. She waited for his accustomed comments on the discomforts of dragonflight, but they never came. Tvrdik spent the trip staring at nothing in particular, preoccupied with his own private musings.

Supper late that afternoon was an occasion of great celebration. Verger, Bargarelle, and Corbin Maygrew were all overwhelmed to be once again in the presence of their old friend. Lord Maygrew shook the proffered hand, an expression of wonder on his face, and murmured, “I never thought I would live to see the day I could do this again, old friend.” And then, he pulled the wizard into a bear hug, each thumping the other on the back. The food seemed more delicious and plentiful than usual. There was wine, and laughter, and some tears. Stewart, on the road to recovery from his battle injuries, was introduced to Xaarus as a hero.

“Wait, don’t tell me!” Xaarus exclaimed, “Why, you are far too young to be my old, dear companion, Angus.”

“Angus was my grandfather, sir, the gods give ‘im peace. He spoke o’ ye with such high regard, all of my young life, that I had no choice but to resolve never to bond with anyone but a true wizard. Thank the stars, the fates obliged me. When young master Tvrdik came along, why, we just seemed to hit it off. I’ve lived with him more than not ever since.” The dog leaned in toward Xaarus with a conspiratorial tone, “To be frank, sir, the boy needs a bit o’ lookin’ after.” And he winked at Tvrdik, who smiled that wan smile once again, as if he got the joke, but simply could no longer find anything in life amusing.

“Well,” replied Xaarus, “he is lucky indeed to have found a protector and companion from such a bloodline as yours. Angus was a faithful friend to me and a wise companion for many years. I missed him sorely while I was…when I was …away.”

“And he missed ye as well, sir, and held out hope o’ yer return, until the day he died. He would be so proud to know that I am here for our family, to welcome ye back, in his stead.”

“Proud indeed, and with good reason. Good man.” Xaarus gave Stewart’s forehead an affectionate scratch.

There were plenty of reminiscences, and shocking, naughty stories about times gone by. And, of course, the stories of the recent battle had to be told in great detail, with only a little appropriate exaggeration. Xaarus was a rapt audience. Then, for the benefit of those who had been left behind that morning at Theriole, the tale of that day’s dramatic rescue had to be rehearsed, which also generated huge excitement all around the table.

“I suppose I should begin work right away on the “Ballad of Brave Tvrdik, Bold Danoral, and the Dragons Eleven!” laughed Mark, and Xaarus cried, in mock indignation, “Master bard, do you mean to say that
my
name won’t figure in the title? I should think I was at least some small part of the story…”

“Suit yourself,” Mark teased, “I shall try to work you in, but you realize ‘Xaarus’ is a very difficult rhyme.”

Loud laughter ensued, and Jorelial Rey picked up the thread of the conversation, “You know, Xaarus, I had grave reservations about the dragons’ plan to bring you back here. I wasn’t sure that it would work, and I didn’t think I wanted to risk the well-being of the only other wizard we had. But Tvrdik insisted. He wouldn’t take no for an answer, no matter what the risk to himself. He wanted nothing so much as to get you home.”

“There, my boy, Tvrdik.” Xaarus acknowledged, “Man of the hour. It seems I owe my return to you, and I am grateful beyond words to be here, lad. You’ve no idea. This whole dinner should be in your honor, son. Everyone, I give you my champion, Tvrdik.”

Those at the table rose, raised glasses, and repeated, “To Tvrdik.” Tvrdik, still seated, had a sort of pained look on his face, as though he had no idea what the proper response to such silliness could be.

Xaarus tried again, “Well, what say you, my brilliant, brave protégé?”

“He’s shy.” Delphine shouted, sensing disaster, and trying to help, “Shy, and very modest.”

Tvrdik rose to his feet. “Please, everyone, sit down and enjoy the party,” he told them. They did, and finding himself still standing, he spoke, at last, in a quiet, calm voice, that was nevertheless firm and clear.

“I only want to say that there is no one who rejoices more at Xaarus’ safe return than I. His absence over these last years was a great loss, both to me, and to the entire court and kingdom of Eneri Clare. That I could play some part in his rescue is a source of great happiness to me. And I toast,” he raised his glass at last, “to many wonderful years ahead of his wise counsel and compassionate shepherding, as he returns to his rightful post as Court Wizard.” Again, Tvrdik raised his glass, and the others followed suit, shouting, “Hear, hear! To Xaarus.”

Then, still on his feet, Tvrdik put down his glass and looked straight at the older wizard. In a more intimate tone, he said, “Welcome home, dear master. We have been working to refurbish your old Cottage, and are almost finished with the repairs and renovations. We have kept your library and laboratory exactly as you left it. All is prepared and awaiting your return. If you could just indulge me with a few days to assemble my few possessions and clear out, I’ll be on my way.”

Mrs. Praeger gasped, and Delphine cried out in dismay, “On your way? But, where? Where are you going?”

Tvrdik shrugged, “Why, back to my own little stone house in the ancient forest, of course. It’s been sitting empty for too long. Anyway, it’s high time I took Ondine back to her waterfall. I promised her. I confess it will be lovely to see that waterfall once again. You must all come and visit, and take a look some time.” He turned his gaze to Jorelial Rey, and smiled his old, familiar, crooked smile, “I even have my own deed to the property, now, thanks to the generosity of our Lady Regent.” He made a little bow.

Corbin Maygrew cut in, “But, I don’t understand, mage. Things are falling into place here for the first time in years. We have peace and prosperity, and you are much revered for your accomplishments.”

Tvrdik responded, his voice even, “My work is done. I was sent here by Xaarus to tackle a special mission. With all of your participation, and with fortune behind us, we have done all we set out to do. Lord Drogue is no longer a threat, Darian sits secure on his rightful throne, well represented by a brilliant and competent regent and a fine council of advisors. We have shifted the timeline and the very quality of life in the future, and we have brought our beloved Master Xaarus home. There is nothing else left for me to do here, so I should take my leave and go home.”

Everyone at the table was so shocked by the young mage’s surprise announcement that for a moment, they all sat staring at him, unable to summon words, brows furrowed, forks frozen in mid-transport…

“Nooo!” This forceful exclamation came from Jorelial Rey, who, despite how slight she was in frame, stared at him with fire in her eye. “This is no time for you to abandon me. Us. I-I mean - your kingdom has need of you. If you would rather not stay at The Cottage, you can live at Theriole, or in town if you like, or even build yourself a whole new house. But there is no reason for you to go back to being a hermit in the ancient forest.”

Tvrdik’s voice stayed level, betraying no emotion, “I beg your pardon, my Lady Regent, but I have promised at least to take Ondine home, and I mean to keep my word. I owe her that much. I believe we all do. Besides,” and here he sat down and ran his fingers through his pale golden hair, “Besides, this entire adventure has been…well…rather overwhelming for a hermit like me. Now that the danger is past, I could do with a little peace and quiet for awhile.”

Xaarus, who sat beside him at the table, put a hand on the young mage’s shoulder, “Son, I’ve had a very long time to think this over, and I was going to speak to you – all of you – about the matter in any case. I suppose now is as good a time as any…” All ears were on the older wizard, as he cleared his throat, “Tvrdik, I am more proud of you than I could ever express in words. You have proven yourself a fine and capable wizard a thousand times over. Yes, you have managed to accomplish every task that I sent you here to do, and more. But, you know, the doings of a palace, and a kingdom, are a young man’s work. I am very old, and weary. All of this knocking around between times has taken a great toll on me. I had thought, if I were ever fortunate enough to get home alive, I would spend the rest of my years in research and contemplation. I don’t think I am up to much else, despite your confidence in me, and your kind offer to reinstate me, my Lady Regent. I can’t think of any more perfect spot for that sort of quiet life than your little house in the woods, son. It is a beautiful, unspoiled place, and you did a wonderful job of making your own little corner comfortable enough. I quite understand how you could call it home for twelve years. With a few minor improvements, I think I could be quite happy there. As for my Cottage, I’m afraid it is filled with sad memories for me now. I give it to you, with my blessing. Perhaps you can rechristen it with happy ones, eh? Tvrdik, will you take your rightful place here, as Court Wizard, and allow an old man to retire in peace in the ancient wood?”