Page 185 of The Shadow Wand

I meet Valasca’s hardened gaze, sobered by the memory of how I folded when faced with the first scorpio that attacked us.

“I want that,” I agree, lit up by the idea of becoming tougher in every way and gaining control of some true power. “Train me like the Amaz.”

Valasca’s eyes flash with a feral light. “You won’t like it, Gardnerian.”

Defiance sparks as I bristle at her certainty.

And at the feeling that she’s probably right.

An incoming flock of purple-flecked ravens snags my attention and I look past her, the birds swooping down to light on branches of the dead Baobab trees. Their wings settle as they turn toward us and grow still.

I’m suddenly filled with the unsettling sense that all the birds are watching me.

Along with the trees.

Part Five

HIGH MAGE

RULING

Declaring that a State of War exists

between the Holy Magedom of

Gardneria and Noilaan.

All necessary force will be used

to subdue the Noi aggressors and

their Vu Trin forces to protect

the Holy Magedom.

Gardnerian Guard

Internal Mandate

Issued by High Mage Marcus Vogel

Initiating a military search for Elloren

Gardner, heir to Carnissa Gardner’s power.

NOI CONCLAVE MANDATE

6'203'68

Ruling War against Gardneria and all those

who align with them in their aggressions

against the people of the Eastern Realm.

The full might of the Vu Trin forces shall be

employed to cut down all threats to Noilaan.

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