Chapter 179: Adjusting Your Senses
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Chapter 179: Adjusting Your Senses
Tala took a moment to collect herself. Kannis is going to be Lyns mageling, and shes going to live with us.
She didnt really know how to feel about that. How could she cope with another person, suddenly rammed into such a core part of her life? What can I do? Can I forbid it?
-Tala.-
-Only when youre here.-
That caused Tala to recenter, if only just. Fine. Only when Im here. That crystallization of the thought helped her pull back to the moment, and realize that the others were watching her, waiting for a response.
Tala pasted on a smile. Thats big news. I didnt know you were considering taking on a mageling, Lyn.
Kannis glanced between them, a thoughtful look on her face, but didnt comment.
Lyn shrugged. Ive been considering it, and this one came and asked. Ive just finished going through her records, and I think its a good match. In fact, if I am going to take on a mageling, there likely wont be one better. She spent the last two months taking an intensive class on the Archive, its history and functions.
That tracks. I left as soon as theyd let me. Most who arrived when I did would have stayed on for one or more extra classes, to round out their employment opportunities. That sounds incredibly useful.
-To say the least. I should see if Oh! Nice! The reference materials for that class are part of the public record. We should read this at some point.- There was a moments pause. -Yeah, Ill restructure it for you. This is not well put together for quick learning.-
Tala cleared her throat. So, to what do I owe the pleasure of being included on this weighty decision?
Lyn nodded. Well, it is traditional for a Mage to provide housing for her mageling.
Tala sighed. So, you found your renter.
I did. Well, in a sense. She wont be renting, as Id be paying for her housing if she stayed elsewhere.
Kannis looked back and forth between them. Im sorry, Mistresses, but I dont understand. What am I missing?
Oh, its fine, Kannis. Tala used to rent a room from me, but due to certainchanges, that is no longer required. She can explain if she wishes, youll figure it out eventually. Suffice to say, I have an open room in my home, so instead of putting you up at some local boarding house, youll live with me, if thats agreeable.
Tala cleared her throat. And me, when Im in town.
Kannis nodded slowly. I dont think I fully understand, but I dont think thats a problem.
Lyn smiled. Good. Ill draw up the paperwork for a Mage-mageling relationship, and we can go over it together.
That sounds wonderful. Thank you, Mistress Lyn. I promise that you wont regret taking me on.
I might. Tala kept the frown off of her face.
-Tala.-
-Dont be rude. This has very little to do with you.-
Fair. She took a deep breath and changed the content of her thoughts. The whole must get my attention thing is getting pretty annoying. Can you take a moment to see if you can disable the requirement?
-As you wish.-
Tala smiled, forcing a bit more genuineness into it this time. Well, congratulations to you both. Its a big thing youre both agreeing to. We can celebrate tonight?
I think thats a wonderful idea. Lyn nodded her thanks and looked to Kannis.
As my master commands. Kannis grinned in genuine-seeming joy. That does sound quite nice.
Well, I must be off, and the two of you have details to hammer out. See you at home tonight, around dinner.
Good to meet you, Mistress Tala. The mageling bowed.
Dont do anything too insane. Lyn added.
Tala felt a smile tug at her lips. Me? Never. Terry on the other hand. He gets to join us in sparring today.
Terry lifted his head and let out an affirmative squawk.
Tala strode away, friend on her shoulder, Lyn left standing, wide-eyed and opened mouthed in astonishment.
That was strangely satisfying.
Alat didnt reply. The silence stretching for almost a minute as Tala made her way through Bandfasts streets.
I suppose that delving into her inner workings to turn off the Tala requirement, takes more capacity that Id have guessed.
Still silent.
Tala shifted her shoulders as she walked, feeling oddly lonely in the silence.
Great. Shes going to see these memories when she comes back, and shell never let me live it down.
-Oh, Im loving it, now.-
Gah! Tala jumped, landing to the side of the street and scaring several of the people around her.
An older woman had frozen in shock, hand coming to her mouth in astonishment. Good heavens child. Are you alright?
Tala felt her face heat in embarrassment and blurted out the first lie that came to mind. There was a bee.
Alat cackled with laughter as Tala sped away, not making eye contact, nor acknowledging the womans follow-up questions.
-There was a bee?-
She kept laughing in the back of Talas mind.
-Its the middle of winter! Theres snow everywhere. What kind of excuse was that?-
The laughter rolled on.
Tala chose the path of nonconfrontation and ignored Alat. She is a lot to ignore
-See, that was at least clever.- A snort of all things resounded through her head. -There was a bee.-
How the rust are you conveying a snort and a shake of your head?
-I grow in capacity by the minute.-
Thats just wonderful for you.
-Thank you. I rather think so, too.- After a moment, Alat giggled. -There was a bee.-
I think it was good enough, given the timeframe. Besides, It was a better response than saying that the voice in my head startled me.
Alat paused at that. -True, I suppose, but just because it wasnt the worst thing you could have said, doesnt mean it was a good option.-
It wasnt worth continuing the disagreement. Tala tossed out some jerky for Terry, even while munching on some, herself. As she did so, she had a realization. Hey, you didnt have to proceed your statement by getting my attention.
-I did not.-
Its a beautiful view, isnt it. The older, feminine voice came from behind Talas right shoulder.
Tala turned, a genuine smile pulling at her cheeks. Mistress Phoen. It is a pleasure to see you once again.
The other woman was exactly as Tala remembered. -It has only been a couple of months.-
One thing stood out where it hadnt at their first meeting. Shes a Mage, not an Archon. Is she Forbidden?
-No, she is not in the lists of Forbidden, but thats a special title for those with essentially no chance to Bound a star, though they can achieve an attempt with relative ease.-
Im sorry, young woman, but you seem to have me at a disadvantage. Do I know you?
Tala gave a slight bow. I am Tala. You greeted me when I arrived from Academy, and you lent me clothing as well.
Why would I have Her eyes widened, and then she laughed. Oh! Mistress Tala, thats right. How are you? She frowned. Did you give up the Mages life?
The lack of inscriptions.
Phoens eyes bobbed to Terry, though there was not surprise in them, so shed likely noticed him before Tala turned around. It seems you found yourself a friend.
Tala reached up and scratched Terry. I have, indeed. But no, no. Im still working for the Caravanners Guild. Ive not given up magic by any means.
The older woman frowned just slightly. The expression didnt seem to line up with any of the wrinkles on her face, making it clear that Phoen didnt frown often. Whatever happened to your inscriptions, dear? Did you have to teleport for some reason? Little else would eliminate them so completely and cleanly.
Tala watched the womans mage-sight inscriptions fill with power and activate.
Phoens eyes widened again, and she gasped, taking a half-step back. Mistress. She gave a shallow bow. Youve come far in such a short time, Archon.
Tala stepped forward, crossing the space that Phoen had created with her half-step and then some, before placing her hands on the womans shoulders. None of that, Mistress. I came to thank you, once again, for your kindness and assistance that first day, not to have you abase yourself.
As you wish. Phoen seemed to struggle for a moment within herself before nodding once. How is it that you have advanced so quickly? Even among those who make it to Archon, isnt half a decade considered fast?
That sounds about right.
So, if I may ask, Mistress. How?
Tala shrugged, finding herself without a good answer. Im not sure what to tell you.
Did you just throw yourself off a cliff to get to the bottom?
-Not an inaccurate assessment.-
Hush, you. I did take some risks, I suppose.
Someone should tan your masters hide for letting you move so fast.
Well, you see, I never actually had a master.
Phoen cocked an eyebrow. I knew you were going to attempt to be hired as a full Mage, but you didnt get a master, even for the advice and direction?
Well, I talk with as many Mages and Archons as I can, asking advice.
Do you follow it?
Tala grimaced slightly. Mostly?
Phoen snorted. Well, it doesnt seem to have done you any lasting harm, at least not yet. She gave Tala an appraising look. Youre doing well, then?
I am, thank you, and you?
Cant complain. Mact is close to full Magehood, and hes likely the last mageling Ill take.
Tala cocked her head to one side. Why dont you?
Phoen laughed. I never could master that spell-form. Something about my mindset as a Material Creator makes me unsuited to such esoteric workings of raw power. I never was able to bridge the quadrants, either. She shrugged. But Ive lived a good life, made a good income, and Im ready to retire and spend time with my great grandchildren.
Do you have many?
Phoen smiled softly. Twenty, the twentieth born just last month. She let out a contented breath. The healers tell me that Ive likely got another dozen years or so, at least. So, Im looking forward to watching them grow, marry, and have children of their own.
That doesnt make sense. Ingrit said no Mage dies of old age. Tala almost objected, but Alat cut across her.
-Ill explain after.- There was a sadness to her alternate interfaces voice, so Tala decided to trust her.
She smiled towards Phoen. That sounds like a full-time endeavor. Tala felt like she wanted to be sad at the prospect of Phoen retiring, especially with Alats vague comments, but there was an undercurrent of joy in the womans demeanor that made it clear that she wanted nothing more in the world than exactly that.
Precisely. Her well worn smile-lines deepened as a look of true, contented satisfaction came to rest on her features.
She wants such different things from me. Was that because they were different people, or was Tala a fool, facing the wisdom brought on by age and rejecting it?
-Likely a bit of both. I dont know that well ever want to take her path, but I think we may want pieces of it at some point.-
There was wisdom there. She might, one day, want a family, and at that time, shed very much be walking a parallel path to Phoens.
Tala glanced around, then nodded into the comfortable silence. Well, I dont want to keep you from your work. Thank you for letting me drop through, and thank you, again, for all you did for me.
Phoen bowed. It was wonderful to see you, and it is my pleasure to have been able to assist. When she straightened, there was a hardness to her gaze. But you listen here, young woman. Ill give you the advice I gave my own daughters and sons: Dont advance too fast, Mistress. Life is worth living, dont let it pass you by. You hear?
Tala felt strangely touched by the womans fervor. I wont, Mistress. Thank you.
Tala bowed to the woman; she bowed to the first Mage who shed met in this city, the first one to greet her after she left the Academy. With a smile on her face, and a lightness brought on by happiness in her head, Tala departed.
Im glad I did that.
-Me too.-
So, what was that about? Didnt Ingrit say no Mage dies of old age?
-I looked it up, and Mages who cant consciously create the Archon star eventually manifest it subconsciously within themselves, instantly bonding it and beginning the process of becoming a fount. In those cases, its a fairly predictable process, which can be monitored and anticipated, without being prevented.-
Hence the twelve year guess.
-Exactly. Apparently, it happens most often in the Mages sleep, at which point, they simply get up and leave. The Mage is then unresponsive, and can either be killed or let out of the city.-
That was depressing to say the least. One day Phone would just get up and walk out of her familys life without a word of goodbye.
-She knows its coming, as will her family, even if they wont know exactly what it is.-
Secrecy.
-Secrecy.-
Tala sighed. I need to hit something. She reached up to scratch Terrys head. Ready to spar, my friend?
He leaned into her hand and trilled with obvious excitement.
Lets go.
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Chapter 179: Adjusting Your Senses
Tala took a moment to collect herself. Kannis is going to be Lyns mageling, and shes going to live with us.
She didnt really know how to feel about that. How could she cope with another person, suddenly rammed into such a core part of her life? What can I do? Can I forbid it?
-Tala.-
-Only when youre here.-
That caused Tala to recenter, if only just. Fine. Only when Im here. That crystallization of the thought helped her pull back to the moment, and realize that the others were watching her, waiting for a response.
Tala pasted on a smile. Thats big news. I didnt know you were considering taking on a mageling, Lyn.
Kannis glanced between them, a thoughtful look on her face, but didnt comment.
Lyn shrugged. Ive been considering it, and this one came and asked. Ive just finished going through her records, and I think its a good match. In fact, if I am going to take on a mageling, there likely wont be one better. She spent the last two months taking an intensive class on the Archive, its history and functions.
That tracks. I left as soon as theyd let me. Most who arrived when I did would have stayed on for one or more extra classes, to round out their employment opportunities. That sounds incredibly useful.
-To say the least. I should see if Oh! Nice! The reference materials for that class are part of the public record. We should read this at some point.- There was a moments pause. -Yeah, Ill restructure it for you. This is not well put together for quick learning.-
Tala cleared her throat. So, to what do I owe the pleasure of being included on this weighty decision?
Lyn nodded. Well, it is traditional for a Mage to provide housing for her mageling.
Tala sighed. So, you found your renter.
I did. Well, in a sense. She wont be renting, as Id be paying for her housing if she stayed elsewhere.
Kannis looked back and forth between them. Im sorry, Mistresses, but I dont understand. What am I missing?
Oh, its fine, Kannis. Tala used to rent a room from me, but due to certainchanges, that is no longer required. She can explain if she wishes, youll figure it out eventually. Suffice to say, I have an open room in my home, so instead of putting you up at some local boarding house, youll live with me, if thats agreeable.
Tala cleared her throat. And me, when Im in town.
Kannis nodded slowly. I dont think I fully understand, but I dont think thats a problem.
Lyn smiled. Good. Ill draw up the paperwork for a Mage-mageling relationship, and we can go over it together.
That sounds wonderful. Thank you, Mistress Lyn. I promise that you wont regret taking me on.
I might. Tala kept the frown off of her face.
-Tala.-
-Dont be rude. This has very little to do with you.-
Fair. She took a deep breath and changed the content of her thoughts. The whole must get my attention thing is getting pretty annoying. Can you take a moment to see if you can disable the requirement?
-As you wish.-
Tala smiled, forcing a bit more genuineness into it this time. Well, congratulations to you both. Its a big thing youre both agreeing to. We can celebrate tonight?
I think thats a wonderful idea. Lyn nodded her thanks and looked to Kannis.
As my master commands. Kannis grinned in genuine-seeming joy. That does sound quite nice.
Well, I must be off, and the two of you have details to hammer out. See you at home tonight, around dinner.
Good to meet you, Mistress Tala. The mageling bowed.
Dont do anything too insane. Lyn added.
Tala felt a smile tug at her lips. Me? Never. Terry on the other hand. He gets to join us in sparring today.
Terry lifted his head and let out an affirmative squawk.
Tala strode away, friend on her shoulder, Lyn left standing, wide-eyed and opened mouthed in astonishment.
That was strangely satisfying.
Alat didnt reply. The silence stretching for almost a minute as Tala made her way through Bandfasts streets.
I suppose that delving into her inner workings to turn off the Tala requirement, takes more capacity that Id have guessed.
Still silent.
Tala shifted her shoulders as she walked, feeling oddly lonely in the silence.
Great. Shes going to see these memories when she comes back, and shell never let me live it down.
-Oh, Im loving it, now.-
Gah! Tala jumped, landing to the side of the street and scaring several of the people around her.
An older woman had frozen in shock, hand coming to her mouth in astonishment. Good heavens child. Are you alright?
Tala felt her face heat in embarrassment and blurted out the first lie that came to mind. There was a bee.
Alat cackled with laughter as Tala sped away, not making eye contact, nor acknowledging the womans follow-up questions.
-There was a bee?-
She kept laughing in the back of Talas mind.
-Its the middle of winter! Theres snow everywhere. What kind of excuse was that?-
The laughter rolled on.
Tala chose the path of nonconfrontation and ignored Alat. She is a lot to ignore
-See, that was at least clever.- A snort of all things resounded through her head. -There was a bee.-
How the rust are you conveying a snort and a shake of your head?
-I grow in capacity by the minute.-
Thats just wonderful for you.
-Thank you. I rather think so, too.- After a moment, Alat giggled. -There was a bee.-
I think it was good enough, given the timeframe. Besides, It was a better response than saying that the voice in my head startled me.
Alat paused at that. -True, I suppose, but just because it wasnt the worst thing you could have said, doesnt mean it was a good option.-
It wasnt worth continuing the disagreement. Tala tossed out some jerky for Terry, even while munching on some, herself. As she did so, she had a realization. Hey, you didnt have to proceed your statement by getting my attention.
-I did not.-
Its a beautiful view, isnt it. The older, feminine voice came from behind Talas right shoulder.
Tala turned, a genuine smile pulling at her cheeks. Mistress Phoen. It is a pleasure to see you once again.
The other woman was exactly as Tala remembered. -It has only been a couple of months.-
One thing stood out where it hadnt at their first meeting. Shes a Mage, not an Archon. Is she Forbidden?
-No, she is not in the lists of Forbidden, but thats a special title for those with essentially no chance to Bound a star, though they can achieve an attempt with relative ease.-
Im sorry, young woman, but you seem to have me at a disadvantage. Do I know you?
Tala gave a slight bow. I am Tala. You greeted me when I arrived from Academy, and you lent me clothing as well.
Why would I have Her eyes widened, and then she laughed. Oh! Mistress Tala, thats right. How are you? She frowned. Did you give up the Mages life?
The lack of inscriptions.
Phoens eyes bobbed to Terry, though there was not surprise in them, so shed likely noticed him before Tala turned around. It seems you found yourself a friend.
Tala reached up and scratched Terry. I have, indeed. But no, no. Im still working for the Caravanners Guild. Ive not given up magic by any means.
The older woman frowned just slightly. The expression didnt seem to line up with any of the wrinkles on her face, making it clear that Phoen didnt frown often. Whatever happened to your inscriptions, dear? Did you have to teleport for some reason? Little else would eliminate them so completely and cleanly.
Tala watched the womans mage-sight inscriptions fill with power and activate.
Phoens eyes widened again, and she gasped, taking a half-step back. Mistress. She gave a shallow bow. Youve come far in such a short time, Archon.
Tala stepped forward, crossing the space that Phoen had created with her half-step and then some, before placing her hands on the womans shoulders. None of that, Mistress. I came to thank you, once again, for your kindness and assistance that first day, not to have you abase yourself.
As you wish. Phoen seemed to struggle for a moment within herself before nodding once. How is it that you have advanced so quickly? Even among those who make it to Archon, isnt half a decade considered fast?
That sounds about right.
So, if I may ask, Mistress. How?
Tala shrugged, finding herself without a good answer. Im not sure what to tell you.
Did you just throw yourself off a cliff to get to the bottom?
-Not an inaccurate assessment.-
Hush, you. I did take some risks, I suppose.
Someone should tan your masters hide for letting you move so fast.
Well, you see, I never actually had a master.
Phoen cocked an eyebrow. I knew you were going to attempt to be hired as a full Mage, but you didnt get a master, even for the advice and direction?
Well, I talk with as many Mages and Archons as I can, asking advice.
Do you follow it?
Tala grimaced slightly. Mostly?
Phoen snorted. Well, it doesnt seem to have done you any lasting harm, at least not yet. She gave Tala an appraising look. Youre doing well, then?
I am, thank you, and you?
Cant complain. Mact is close to full Magehood, and hes likely the last mageling Ill take.
Tala cocked her head to one side. Why dont you?
Phoen laughed. I never could master that spell-form. Something about my mindset as a Material Creator makes me unsuited to such esoteric workings of raw power. I never was able to bridge the quadrants, either. She shrugged. But Ive lived a good life, made a good income, and Im ready to retire and spend time with my great grandchildren.
Do you have many?
Phoen smiled softly. Twenty, the twentieth born just last month. She let out a contented breath. The healers tell me that Ive likely got another dozen years or so, at least. So, Im looking forward to watching them grow, marry, and have children of their own.
That doesnt make sense. Ingrit said no Mage dies of old age. Tala almost objected, but Alat cut across her.
-Ill explain after.- There was a sadness to her alternate interfaces voice, so Tala decided to trust her.
She smiled towards Phoen. That sounds like a full-time endeavor. Tala felt like she wanted to be sad at the prospect of Phoen retiring, especially with Alats vague comments, but there was an undercurrent of joy in the womans demeanor that made it clear that she wanted nothing more in the world than exactly that.
Precisely. Her well worn smile-lines deepened as a look of true, contented satisfaction came to rest on her features.
She wants such different things from me. Was that because they were different people, or was Tala a fool, facing the wisdom brought on by age and rejecting it?
-Likely a bit of both. I dont know that well ever want to take her path, but I think we may want pieces of it at some point.-
There was wisdom there. She might, one day, want a family, and at that time, shed very much be walking a parallel path to Phoens.
Tala glanced around, then nodded into the comfortable silence. Well, I dont want to keep you from your work. Thank you for letting me drop through, and thank you, again, for all you did for me.
Phoen bowed. It was wonderful to see you, and it is my pleasure to have been able to assist. When she straightened, there was a hardness to her gaze. But you listen here, young woman. Ill give you the advice I gave my own daughters and sons: Dont advance too fast, Mistress. Life is worth living, dont let it pass you by. You hear?
Tala felt strangely touched by the womans fervor. I wont, Mistress. Thank you.
Tala bowed to the woman; she bowed to the first Mage who shed met in this city, the first one to greet her after she left the Academy. With a smile on her face, and a lightness brought on by happiness in her head, Tala departed.
Im glad I did that.
-Me too.-
So, what was that about? Didnt Ingrit say no Mage dies of old age?
-I looked it up, and Mages who cant consciously create the Archon star eventually manifest it subconsciously within themselves, instantly bonding it and beginning the process of becoming a fount. In those cases, its a fairly predictable process, which can be monitored and anticipated, without being prevented.-
Hence the twelve year guess.
-Exactly. Apparently, it happens most often in the Mages sleep, at which point, they simply get up and leave. The Mage is then unresponsive, and can either be killed or let out of the city.-
That was depressing to say the least. One day Phone would just get up and walk out of her familys life without a word of goodbye.
-She knows its coming, as will her family, even if they wont know exactly what it is.-
Secrecy.
-Secrecy.-
Tala sighed. I need to hit something. She reached up to scratch Terrys head. Ready to spar, my friend?
He leaned into her hand and trilled with obvious excitement.
Lets go.
Chapter 179: Adjusting Your SensesTala took a moment to collect herself. Kannis is going to be Lyns mageling, and shes going to live with us.She didnt really know how to feel about that. How could she cope with another person, suddenly rammed into such a core part of her life? What can I do? Can I forbid it?-Tala.--Only when youre here.-That caused Tala to recenter, if only just. Fine. Only when Im here. That crystallization of the thought helped her pull back to the moment, and realize that the others were watching her, waiting for a response.Tala pasted on a smile. Thats big news. I didnt know you were considering taking on a mageling, Lyn.Kannis glanced between them, a thoughtful look on her face, but didnt comment.Lyn shrugged. Ive been considering it, and this one came and asked. Ive just finished going through her records, and I think its a good match. In fact, if I am going to take on a mageling, there likely wont be one better. She spent the last two months taking an intensive class on the Archive, its history and functions.That tracks. I left as soon as theyd let me. Most who arrived when I did would have stayed on for one or more extra classes, to round out their employment opportunities. That sounds incredibly useful.-To say the least. I should see if Oh! Nice! The reference materials for that class are part of the public record. We should read this at some point.- There was a moments pause. -Yeah, Ill restructure it for you. This is not well put together for quick learning.-Tala cleared her throat. So, to what do I owe the pleasure of being included on this weighty decision?Lyn nodded. Well, it is traditional for a Mage to provide housing for her mageling.Tala sighed. So, you found your renter.I did. Well, in a sense. She wont be renting, as Id be paying for her housing if she stayed elsewhere.Kannis looked back and forth between them. Im sorry, Mistresses, but I dont understand. What am I missing?Oh, its fine, Kannis. Tala used to rent a room from me, but due to certainchanges, that is no longer required. She can explain if she wishes, youll figure it out eventually. Suffice to say, I have an open room in my home, so instead of putting you up at some local boarding house, youll live with me, if thats agreeable.Tala cleared her throat. And me, when Im in town.Kannis nodded slowly. I dont think I fully understand, but I dont think thats a problem.Lyn smiled. Good. Ill draw up the paperwork for a Mage-mageling relationship, and we can go over it together.That sounds wonderful. Thank you, Mistress Lyn. I promise that you wont regret taking me on.I might. Tala kept the frown off of her face.-Tala.--Dont be rude. This has very little to do with you.-Fair. She took a deep breath and changed the content of her thoughts. The whole must get my attention thing is getting pretty annoying. Can you take a moment to see if you can disable the requirement?-As you wish.-Tala smiled, forcing a bit more genuineness into it this time. Well, congratulations to you both. Its a big thing youre both agreeing to. We can celebrate tonight?I think thats a wonderful idea. Lyn nodded her thanks and looked to Kannis.As my master commands. Kannis grinned in genuine-seeming joy. That does sound quite nice.Well, I must be off, and the two of you have details to hammer out. See you at home tonight, around dinner.Good to meet you, Mistress Tala. The mageling bowed.Dont do anything too insane. Lyn added.Tala felt a smile tug at her lips. Me? Never. Terry on the other hand. He gets to join us in sparring today.Terry lifted his head and let out an affirmative squawk.Tala strode away, friend on her shoulder, Lyn left standing, wide-eyed and opened mouthed in astonishment.That was strangely satisfying.Alat didnt reply. The silence stretching for almost a minute as Tala made her way through Bandfasts streets.I suppose that delving into her inner workings to turn off the Tala requirement, takes more capacity that Id have guessed.Still silent.Tala shifted her shoulders as she walked, feeling oddly lonely in the silence.Great. Shes going to see these memories when she comes back, and shell never let me live it down.-Oh, Im loving it, now.-Gah! Tala jumped, landing to the side of the street and scaring several of the people around her.An older woman had frozen in shock, hand coming to her mouth in astonishment. Good heavens child. Are you alright?Tala felt her face heat in embarrassment and blurted out the first lie that came to mind. There was a bee.Alat cackled with laughter as Tala sped away, not making eye contact, nor acknowledging the womans follow-up questions.-There was a bee?-She kept laughing in the back of Talas mind.-Its the middle of winter! Theres snow everywhere. What kind of excuse was that?-The laughter rolled on.Tala chose the path of nonconfrontation and ignored Alat. She is a lot to ignore-See, that was at least clever.- A snort of all things resounded through her head. -There was a bee.-How the rust are you conveying a snort and a shake of your head?-I grow in capacity by the minute.-Thats just wonderful for you.-Thank you. I rather think so, too.- After a moment, Alat giggled. -There was a bee.-I think it was good enough, given the timeframe. Besides, It was a better response than saying that the voice in my head startled me.Alat paused at that. -True, I suppose, but just because it wasnt the worst thing you could have said, doesnt mean it was a good option.-It wasnt worth continuing the disagreement. Tala tossed out some jerky for Terry, even while munching on some, herself. As she did so, she had a realization. Hey, you didnt have to proceed your statement by getting my attention.-I did not.-Its a beautiful view, isnt it. The older, feminine voice came from behind Talas right shoulder.Tala turned, a genuine smile pulling at her cheeks. Mistress Phoen. It is a pleasure to see you once again.The other woman was exactly as Tala remembered. -It has only been a couple of months.-One thing stood out where it hadnt at their first meeting. Shes a Mage, not an Archon. Is she Forbidden?-No, she is not in the lists of Forbidden, but thats a special title for those with essentially no chance to Bound a star, though they can achieve an attempt with relative ease.-Im sorry, young woman, but you seem to have me at a disadvantage. Do I know you?Tala gave a slight bow. I am Tala. You greeted me when I arrived from Academy, and you lent me clothing as well.Why would I have Her eyes widened, and then she laughed. Oh! Mistress Tala, thats right. How are you? She frowned. Did you give up the Mages life?The lack of inscriptions.Phoens eyes bobbed to Terry, though there was not surprise in them, so shed likely noticed him before Tala turned around. It seems you found yourself a friend.Tala reached up and scratched Terry. I have, indeed. But no, no. Im still working for the Caravanners Guild. Ive not given up magic by any means.The older woman frowned just slightly. The expression didnt seem to line up with any of the wrinkles on her face, making it clear that Phoen didnt frown often. Whatever happened to your inscriptions, dear? Did you have to teleport for some reason? Little else would eliminate them so completely and cleanly.Tala watched the womans mage-sight inscriptions fill with power and activate.Phoens eyes widened again, and she gasped, taking a half-step back. Mistress. She gave a shallow bow. Youve come far in such a short time, Archon.Tala stepped forward, crossing the space that Phoen had created with her half-step and then some, before placing her hands on the womans shoulders. None of that, Mistress. I came to thank you, once again, for your kindness and assistance that first day, not to have you abase yourself.As you wish. Phoen seemed to struggle for a moment within herself before nodding once. How is it that you have advanced so quickly? Even among those who make it to Archon, isnt half a decade considered fast?That sounds about right.So, if I may ask, Mistress. How?Tala shrugged, finding herself without a good answer. Im not sure what to tell you.Did you just throw yourself off a cliff to get to the bottom?-Not an inaccurate assessment.-Hush, you. I did take some risks, I suppose.Someone should tan your masters hide for letting you move so fast.Well, you see, I never actually had a master.Phoen cocked an eyebrow. I knew you were going to attempt to be hired as a full Mage, but you didnt get a master, even for the advice and direction?Well, I talk with as many Mages and Archons as I can, asking advice.Do you follow it?Tala grimaced slightly. Mostly?Phoen snorted. Well, it doesnt seem to have done you any lasting harm, at least not yet. She gave Tala an appraising look. Youre doing well, then?I am, thank you, and you?Cant complain. Mact is close to full Magehood, and hes likely the last mageling Ill take.Tala cocked her head to one side. Why dont you?Phoen laughed. I never could master that spell-form. Something about my mindset as a Material Creator makes me unsuited to such esoteric workings of raw power. I never was able to bridge the quadrants, either. She shrugged. But Ive lived a good life, made a good income, and Im ready to retire and spend time with my great grandchildren.Do you have many?Phoen smiled softly. Twenty, the twentieth born just last month. She let out a contented breath. The healers tell me that Ive likely got another dozen years or so, at least. So, Im looking forward to watching them grow, marry, and have children of their own.That doesnt make sense. Ingrit said no Mage dies of old age. Tala almost objected, but Alat cut across her.-Ill explain after.- There was a sadness to her alternate interfaces voice, so Tala decided to trust her.She smiled towards Phoen. That sounds like a full-time endeavor. Tala felt like she wanted to be sad at the prospect of Phoen retiring, especially with Alats vague comments, but there was an undercurrent of joy in the womans demeanor that made it clear that she wanted nothing more in the world than exactly that.Precisely. Her well worn smile-lines deepened as a look of true, contented satisfaction came to rest on her features.She wants such different things from me. Was that because they were different people, or was Tala a fool, facing the wisdom brought on by age and rejecting it?-Likely a bit of both. I dont know that well ever want to take her path, but I think we may want pieces of it at some point.-There was wisdom there. She might, one day, want a family, and at that time, shed very much be walking a parallel path to Phoens.Tala glanced around, then nodded into the comfortable silence. Well, I dont want to keep you from your work. Thank you for letting me drop through, and thank you, again, for all you did for me.Phoen bowed. It was wonderful to see you, and it is my pleasure to have been able to assist. When she straightened, there was a hardness to her gaze. But you listen here, young woman. Ill give you the advice I gave my own daughters and sons: Dont advance too fast, Mistress. Life is worth living, dont let it pass you by. You hear?Tala felt strangely touched by the womans fervor. I wont, Mistress. Thank you.Tala bowed to the woman; she bowed to the first Mage who shed met in this city, the first one to greet her after she left the Academy. With a smile on her face, and a lightness brought on by happiness in her head, Tala departed.Im glad I did that.-Me too.-So, what was that about? Didnt Ingrit say no Mage dies of old age?-I looked it up, and Mages who cant consciously create the Archon star eventually manifest it subconsciously within themselves, instantly bonding it and beginning the process of becoming a fount. In those cases, its a fairly predictable process, which can be monitored and anticipated, without being prevented.-Hence the twelve year guess.-Exactly. Apparently, it happens most often in the Mages sleep, at which point, they simply get up and leave. The Mage is then unresponsive, and can either be killed or let out of the city.-That was depressing to say the least. One day Phone would just get up and walk out of her familys life without a word of goodbye.-She knows its coming, as will her family, even if they wont know exactly what it is.-Secrecy.-Secrecy.-Tala sighed. I need to hit something. She reached up to scratch Terrys head. Ready to spar, my friend?He leaned into her hand and trilled with obvious excitement.Lets go.
