Knights Magi (Book 4) by Terry Mancour Page A

here, no doubt you would have been ready for your exams a year ago.  Or advanced study.”
    “Thank you, Head Master,” Rondal said, humbly.  Tyndal’s face burned.  At least he could have the good grace to gloat a little.
    “Sir Tyndal of Sevendor,” Master Alwyn continued, as a second scroll was brought to his attention by an aide, “your scores were . . . less impressive, but in consideration of your unique circumstances, it is felt that your wit is sufficient to absorb some remedial education in certain subjects to bring you up to level. 
    “You do have an excellent grasp of basic cantrips,” he said, almost apologetically, “and a talent for woodbending – I saw the chair you put together, that was quite striking – a good basic knowledge of Greater Elemental practice, and a bit of a knack for sigils and runes.  But there are many, many gaps in your education, gaps that I cannot, in good conscience, allow you to leave here unfilled.  Not if we are to fulfill your master’s request.”
    “Thank you, Head Master,” Tyndal said, almost choking on the words.
    “So, my lords,” the wizard continued, flopping the scroll onto the table, “I am recommending that young Sir Rondal, here, be given two more weeks of advanced study with the lecturers in Thaumaturgy, Enchantment, and Lesser Elemental Theory. 
    “Sir Tyndal shall spend the next four weeks in training.  When he has satisfied the faculty of his basic competence in his deficient areas, then he will be sent after you.”
    “ Four weeks?” Tyndal almost shrieked.  “I’m going to be—”
    “ Studying, my lord,” Alwyn said, sharply.  “Studying every waking moment.  Taking every opportunity to improve your knowledge of our Art.”
    “ That’s not fair!” Tyndal almost shouted.  He struggled to keep himself under control.  “It’s not my fault that I didn’t get started until a few years ago!”
    “And this is not a punishment, young man,” Alwyn riposted.  “It is an opportunity . An opportunity hundreds of magi across the Duchies would give a limb for, and you should keep that in mind.”
    Tyndal opened his mouth to speak, and then closed it.  He knew the man was right.  Inarion Academy was the largest and most renowned school of magic in the western Duchies.  And one of only three in the new Kingdom. 
    “I understand, Master Alwyn,” Tyndal sighed.  “I’m just not used to such . . . inactivity.”
    “Nor should you be,” Alwyn chuckled.  “I was a young man once – even did a stint as a warmage, believe it or not, before I caught a flux.  I have heard that you occasionally practice in the guard’s yard – I encourage you to continue.  It will help keep you focused and your mind on your studies if you exercise an hour a day.”
    “But both of you can count on a full course load for the next few weeks.  I suggest you take advantage of it.  From what I understand, your opportunities to study will likely be limited in the future. 
    “This is a new world your Master has forged for us, and it appears you are destined to become his agents in it.  Whether that is a good thing or a bad thing remains to be seen . . . there are many of us who are suspicious of the consequences of overturning the Bans.
    “But regardless of what happens, you are to be warmagi . . . Knights Magi, they’re calling it.  A blend of chivalry and sorcery – the very idea is novel.  And dangerous.”
    “But Master,” Rondal objected, “we are faithful servants of the Spellmonger, and loyal to the King!”
    “It isn’t your loyalty – or your dedication – that is at issue, Sir Rondal.  Young men are by nature hot-headed and foolish.  Such power in young hands is inherently dangerous.”  The old man looked out the window wistfully.  “Part of me dreads the trials ahead of us.  For good or ill, your master has smashed the old way of doing things.” 
    He looked back at them sharply.  “And part of me is envious that