The Crystal Sorcerers by William R. Forstchen Page A

from Boreas. Would you care to sit down and join us in a drink?"
    "No, thank you. I prefer to stand."
    Allic's smile became a little less warm.
    "So what message forces you to journey to this land of insufferable heat and effete Southerners?"
    Even Traca's smile was wintry.
    "Prince Allic, we of the North are not noted for our gregariousness. But, rest assured, I meant no insult to those who have had the honor of destroying the realm of that monster Sarnak."
    Mark spoke before he could catch his loose tongue.
    "Does that mean that you have had contacts with Sarnak also?"
    "I see your education has been sadly neglected, Outlander. The heirs of Bore will hate Sarnak for as long as the universe lasts, and beyond. It is because of him that our father, the Creator Bore, was foully murdered by Horat--may his name be cursed for eternity."
    Traca returned his attention to Aliic.
    "We have kept the Peace as we swore, though the thought of Sarnak living has been an intolerable burden to us for over three thousand years."
    "All of Haven is aware of Boreas' restraint. It saved the lives of many during the exchange of prisoners," came Allic's soothing reply. "Now. Your message?"
    For the first time emotion crossed Traca's face: an almost wistful eagerness.
    "We of the North hope that you might have some inkling as to Sarnak's whereabouts, since you now have access to his castle and secret papers. I am authorized to offer a score of wall crystals to replace your losses if my lord Boreas has first chance to use such information and successfully takes Sarnak."
    Mark could see that Allic was furious, but did an admirable job of keeping his temper.
    "Traca, inform your lord that he can keep his crystals. When and if I can find such information, all those who have cause to hate Sarnak may join me in the chase."
    "Very generous. In the name of my lord, I thank you!"
    For another moment the look of eagerness lasted, and then was gone.
    "There is one more matter that I am commanded to discuss. It is known that you have signed all the outlanders"--and here he turned to look at Ikawa and Mark--"to contracts in your service. It is further known that several have left you and are now on the rolls as Unta."
    Mark glanced over at Ikawa and knew his friend was as pierced as he was by the knowledge that two of their party were now known as unspeakable and without honor for breaking their contracts. He turned to see Allic shaking his head at them, as if to say, the dishonor was not yours.
    "Yes, it is so," Allic told Traca.
    "Then let me inform you that Boreas wishes to buy the contract of the one called Giorgini."
    There were gasps around the table, but Allic's face was expressionless.
    "I'm sure you realize the implications of your last statement, messenger."
    "Yes."
    "What is your offer?"
    "One wall crystal."
    "A wall crystal for a contract that has a little over two years left? Most impressive."
    Allic then turned to Mark.
    "Mark, he was one of yours. What is your counsel?"
    "I don't really understand all of this," Mark said hesitantly, "but if there is a chance to give Giorgini a way to redeem himself I'd say yes."
    Allic turned back to Traca. "Inform your lord that I accept."
    Traca nodded. "The wall crystal will be delivered in two days. With your permission I will wait until then to take possession of the contract."
    With Allic's nod of acceptance, Traca turned again to Mark.
    "Know, young sorcerer, that your man Giorgini was on his way back to you when he, uh, was delayed. It is my lord's intention to put his name back on the rolls."
    Allic rapped the table with his mug, and with a calm voice that belied the anger on his face said, "Unnecessary, Traca. As of this moment I have ordered Giorgini's name restored to the rolls. Now, unless you have further business to discuss, you are excused from my presence."
    Traca bowed and left.
    "Would someone please explain to me what is going on about Giorgini?"
    Ikawa was the first to answer.
    " Either Boreas