Golden Box Book Publishing GBBP Magazine, June, 2017 | Page 41

A lightning bolt crashed down beside him, followed by the
sound of drums beating, which gradually became louder until it
matched every thump of Mierta’s frantic heart.
While the door closed behind him, Dragomir walked to the
edge of the room and bowed to the dragon. The drums stopped
abruptly.
The warlock bowed his head toward Mierta.
Mierta glanced back not assured.
“His appearance may look frightening, but do not fear,” Kaeto
continued. “I assure you he is only here to help me perform the
magic, which is tiring for me. Now, Mierta, keep your eyes upon
mine at all times. You may feel a tingling sensation as I
investigate your essence.” He turned toward the warlock.
“Dragomir, you may begin, wand at the ready.”
Mierta watched Dragomir raise his wand and hold it out
towards him. He took in a deep breath. He had heard stories about
the Rite of Wands, but it was forbidden for anyone to discuss
specifics of their individual ritual. The little knowledge he had,
told him the ceremony represented a kind of test before he would
either be accepted or not as a full member of the magical
community. If he failed, there would not be another chance; he
would become a Magulia—a magical person without his or her
powers. Magulians were looked down on and lived the remainder
of their lives as outcasts.
The Rite of Wands began when Lord Kaeto entered his soul,
though he did not know exactly what would happen. What he was
about to see was a mystery, but, how he endured would determine
his fate.
When Mierta stared into Lord Kaeto’s golden amphibian eyes,
they were not frightful like he expected. Instead, they appeared
old and sad, as though he already knew what he was about to see.
This sent a chill down Mierta’s body.
Lord Kaeto could see what Mierta’s heart desired. There was
both good and evil inside him, caused by a deep hurt that had yet
to be mended.
Please, do not curse me to a life without magic, Mierta
begged.
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