Ascendants of Ancients Sovereign - By Phillip Jones Page 0,137

have also killed without mercy, have you not?”

The mage nodded. “I forget with whom I speak, My Lord. Please forgive me.”

“There is no need for forgiveness.” The god held out the palm of his right hand. A small image of Kepler and George appeared on top of it. “The jaguar has honor, but this isn’t something you would know about. Like you said, you’ve only heard stories.”

Lasidious allowed the image to fade, and then he put his hand back on Amar’s shoulder. “The man I want you to travel with is ruthless, yet he, too, has honor. He’s not from this world, yet he possesses the ability to dominate its kingdoms. George has traveled from the past. He has also aligned himself with the beast, Maldwin, from inside the Cave of Sorrow. He also had an alliance with Kroger before he killed the ogre.”

“Do you mean Kroger from the Dark Forest, My Lord?”

“Yes.”

“Kroger is a gentle giant. Why would this George end him? Why would I want to travel with a man who doesn’t respect his allies?”

“Tisk, tisk, tisk, Amar. You have also stolen breath from an ally or two.”

Amar hung his head. “My deepest apologies, My Lord. It’s not everyday I speak with someone who knows my secrets. How was George able to align himself with Maldwin? The creature’s visions are said to be deadly to all men.”

A proud smile appeared on Lasidious’ face. “George is immune to Maldwin’s visions. He needed the scrolls he purchased from your brother to protect Kroger’s mind, not his own. The giant was with him when he went into the cave. It was also at the cave where George killed Kroger by turning him to stone.”

Amar’s eyes widened. “Stone is a treasured power. Other than myself, there’s no one on Grayham who can command it. Does George use a staff or scrolls?”

Lasidious shook his head. “George commands the power without staff or scroll. But he’s finding it difficult to control it. His ability is natural and because of this, greatness follows him. He doesn’t even need to speak words.”

Amar could not believe his ears. “How’s this possible, My Lord?”

“How isn’t important, Amar. It would be wise for you to align yourself with George. You could be his counselor, and teach him to channel his power. You have been to Luvelles to train under the Head Master, and you understand the dark arts. You’re the most powerful mage roaming the three kingdoms of Southern Grayham ... I’ve seen to this, because I knew this day would come.”

Amar bowed. “I’ll do whatever you ask of me, My Lord.”

“No, Amar. I’m not here to ask anything of you. I’m here to inform you of things to come. It is my desire to see you develop into the man I know you’re capable of becoming. I would like you to consider my visit a suggestion … an simple idea to ponder. If you befriend George, your wisdom will be a great asset, and your rise to glory will follow.”

Amar was clearly excited. “I can’t wait to tell my brother. Morre will be proud of me.”

“I wouldn’t speak of this with your brother,” Lasidious suggested. “His service to his god is a fool’s service. Morre wouldn’t understand your desire to perfect the dark arts and seek power. It would be wise for you to keep your decision private. I have always looked fondly upon you, Amar. After all, we are friends, are we not?”

The mage’s head could not nod fast enough. “Oh, yes, My Lord, we are friends, although I’m surprised you believe me worthy. I’m your humble friend, and I live to serve you.”

Lasidious put his hand on Amar’s head. “Of all my subjects, your service I cherish the most. From this Peak forward, I extend my hand to you in friendship. You’re a free man, with free will, and I respect you as the mage you’ve become. I couldn’t be prouder of you.”

The Mischievous One patted Amar on both shoulders. “Now ... the moments have come for you to acquire glory. Rise up, and make all men fear you.” Lasidious smiled. “I’ll watch from above as your biggest fan.”

Amar was happy with the way his lord spoke. “Perhaps it would be best if I set out to find this George right now, My Lord.”

Lasidious shook his head and then reminded the mage that George was not yet in town. The god suggested it would be wiser to gather the materials Amar would need to travel with