Warlocks Index – Previous Chapter
The journey back was a little livelier thanks to Billtak’s presence. He always had the gift of ingratiating himself to new company. Graciul was less watchful and more at ease appearing more the youthful person he really was than I had ever seen him before. As for myself, I found I was reflective and frequently sought my own space when possible. Taking the reins was an opportunity for introspection.
On the final leg, we approached, passed through, and left behind the forest in silence. I think Billtak had picked up on the significance of the place and did not say anything until we were some distance away. Graciul answered his questions at length. I found I was unable to give any voice to my thoughts.
The moment passed and it was not long before we were permitted entrance into the village. Things had a familiar feel, if a little more somber than usual. People were milling about but there was a subdued slowness to their pace, and interactions.
Some saw us pass by, and a few nodded a shallow greeting. I returned those in kind, feeling much the same. Returning to what had been my home for several years did not have the sense of comfort I once knew. The place no longer fit me to use a term I once heard a young boy use.
The Prefect, obviously already advised of our approach, waited for us at the main hall. His was the first truly welcoming face I had seen, as was the strong bear hug he gave me.
*****
The Prefect, Billtak and I spoke at length about plans and the future. One the most important items of discussion was the remains of Tobus. His parents had been informed, and they now attended his body in an adjacent room. I had joined them after my discussions with the Prefect and had brought them his story so these could be added to his funeral ceremony. I asked to be involved in the preparations, not expecting them to agree, so I shed a tear when they accepted.
That evening, as the sun was going beyond the world, the body of Tobus was placed on a funeral Pire, which was a stack of dried wheatgrass in a small wooden frame. Pages containing tales of his life, and messages from family and friends were placed around him. His mother, Tarel, handed me a few pages. Written upon these pages were the experiences I had shared of his last days.
“These are for you, Master Walker. They are a part of your story too.”
Overwhelmed with emotion, holding back tears, I placed them with the other pages around his wrapped body. Then she and Tobus’s father, Breke, came forward with the burning torch. Tarel took my hand placing it over theirs, all three holding the torch. Together, we lit the Pire. The wheatgrass caught quickly and soon the entire structure burned brightly. Pages, burning away, floated into the night sky, spreading his story and the memories of his friends into the world.
Slowly, the crowd dispersed, until only I was left. I lingered transfixed by the smouldering embers. Then I heard soft footsteps behind me.
“I hear you’re leaving us.” It was Graciul, returned from fetching Berlinia and Brethna.
“Indeed.” I took a deep breath before continuing.
Graciul grunted something. “I never did believe you. Bringing Billtak was never a holiday.”
I could not help a small chuckle. It was a foolish idea that I could hide anything from him. “You are uncomfortably clever.” I turned to face him and noted another figure a short distance away, the darkening night obscuring their features, but not their dress.
“I think I know that answer, but I must ask. Do you need a travelling companion?”
“You have a life here, with her, but I appreciate the offer.”
I turned back to the Pire and we stood silent for a moment.
“Where will you go?”
“West. I’ll head to the port town Marshore Glenn. From there, who knows.”
“Why?” He said it simply, without expectation.
“Many reasons. Staying here would only cause more harm. I would be a reminder to everyone, both for who I am, and who I look like. I cannot return to Haven. I have done things that go against the teachings of the Academy, and that is an influence they will not allow on the students.”
There was so much more, memories of a father murdered stolen from my brother unwillingly, the forcing of perspective of his victims making him personally live the torture and taunting he had done unto them. There was the knowledge reserved for Toa Masters that my mother had, without permission, given me access to, and the temptations I had resisted in my battle with The Maker. Many things done, and many questions left unanswered.
“We are but a small part of a larger world. Perhaps I will find a place where I fit.”
Graciul looked to me. “You remember that?”
“I remember a young adventurous boy who enjoyed roaming the wilderness, worrying his parents daily.” I faced him again. “I have no doubt that you will find an adventure of your own soon, and not alone. For me however, my path isq a single one.”
I reach out my hand to take his, and he instead wrapped his arms around me.
“Safe journeys.” He said, then pulled away.
“Thank you, and thank you for all that you have done.”
He nodded, then turned away. Berlinia held out her hand to him and the disappeared into the darkness. I turned back to the Pire, now nothing more than softly glowing and cracking embers. With one last thought of apology to Tobus, I too headed back to the village.
Taking quieter paths, I returned to our temporary lodging. Billtak was there organising his belongings. I picked up a pack I had prepared before.
“So, you’ll be going now?”
“Yes.”
“In the dark?”
“Best time to slip away.” I said with a sad smile. “Look after them. They have been through too much.”
Billtak nodded. “I shall. Be safe.”
“Thank you, and you,” and I turned heading out into the night air.
I had purchased a horse, Gretch, the first horse I had ever actually owned, and led him quietly to the western gate. The only one to see me go was the guard. He wished me safe travels as I mounted Gretch. I gave him a wave and took off at a gallop.
*****
So now you know it all. My story of The Maker and his Silver Tongue. The fact that you are seeing this means you have become the latest owner of the Master Crystal. What you will find within is everything I have discovered about the rare gift we both have, from beyond the walls of Haven and the Academy. My journey started as a personal one, uncovering a side of my family I never knew. It became something more as I met new people, saw new locations, learned new philosophies, and faced new challenges.
I look back on my choices and wonder how my life would have been different had I never encountered my brother. I no longer despise him. I pity him. Incapable of being able to relate to anyone beyond himself, he was blind to the strength friendships could offer. He craved connection yet his selfish urges led to his own downfall and only served to separate him from everyone around him.
Do not mistake me however, he was irredeemable and needed to be stopped. He cannot be saved because he is a product of his makeup.
I just could not live with the guilt I carried for so long, guilt that was not mine, guilt for not being able to save Tobus, nor my brother, Gareth.
Reflection of a Ham 
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