Destiny's Gem

by J. Cain McKrell

  ***

  “The girl has made a full recovery,” Bernard told Antok.

  “She can no longer stay here after such an event. There isn’t precedent for an episode like this. It could be disastrous for all of us,” Antok the Venerable replied.

  “I’ve removed any traces of Kubathu’s influence over her, there is no risk,” Bernard explained, again.

  Releasing Sevra from the Magicus Celesti at this stage was frankly dangerous. He wouldn’t allow it, or at least fight against it with all that he could until he finished her training. She needed to stay here a while longer so he could be certain he truly did unravel Kubathu’s touch on her. Unfortunately, that meant hiding his uncertainty from this tribunal. If they knew he had doubts himself, she wouldn’t stand a chance.

  Most importantly, Sevra had too much potential for them to throw away after he already devoted two years to her. He had hopes she was to be his lasting legacy. Who knew how many years he had left; to think he wasted so much time near the end of his life was unacceptable.

  “Another three months is all I ask,” Bernard continued, “reevaluate after that period. Don’t let fear lead you to an overly haste decision.”

  Antok tapped his fingers against his desk, narrowing his eyes in thought.

  “We will discuss it among our council, but do not hold high hopes in this matter,” he stated.

  Amongst the hearing, there was one participant of whom the others were not aware. Dwelling in the crimson stone within Bernard’s necklace, Kubathu had full awareness of the proceeding. With two seals of his prison compromised, he could extend his will in ways undetectable to those so-called wizards. The greatest danger always came from the unknown; he currently held that advantage. He had plans for Sevra; the girl could not leave until the time was right. Kubathu would make certain of it.