Assassin's Rise by CJ Whrite Read Free Book Online Page B

a very powerful piece, but it has one weakness,” he
held up a bony finger. “It can only attack once it has infiltrated
the enemy’s territory, which is considered to be across the halfway
point of the board. Of course, if an enemy invades your territory
it would be free to attack –”
    “– and it’s wise to
keep a good eye on them sneaky bastards,” said Oldon and drained
his mug.
    Roland collected the
empty mugs and went to fetch fresh ale, thinking that it if he
played the game, using the Assassin unit would be his definite
choice of attack.

Chapter
5
     
    R oland stood in Academia Amlor
Registry, his hands clenched behind his back to keep them from
shaking. Before him sat seven men dressed in black robes, Altmoor
among them. They wore stern expressions, each carrying an air of
authority.
    “We have reviewed the
results from your exam and would like to ask a few questions
...”
    “Please do,” said
Roland, trying to keep his voice even. The fact that they took the
time to speak with him must mean that the exam went well. Altmoor
gave an almost unperceivable nod in his direction.
    “Going back over the
exam, I would like you to give a clear and concise answer to
question number six. That was the question concerning spoiled
wounds. I would like you to answer as it is stated in the book,”
said a thin-faced man, watching Roland through narrowed eyes.
    Roland thought back to
the question. The question had asked to specify treatment for
wounds inflicted by animal bite or claw when the flesh has spoiled.
“I do not remember the exact wording of the book, but it states
that such a wound should be regularly cleaned with a mixture of
honey, wine and sage or honeysuckle. If the wound does not improve,
amputation should be considered if practical.”
    “Very good. Now please
elaborate on what you have written as an alternative to what the
book states.”
    “To keep the patient in
a dark room and to cover the spoiled flesh with maggots. Then use a
damp cloth to cover both wound and maggots, as this is a favourable
environment for the creatures.”
    As Roland finished the
thin-faced man slammed his hands on the table, his voice quivering
as he said, “Preposterous! Maggots are creatures of filth, born in
sickness. The patient is not there for you to experiment on using
barbarous treatments! The way you have worded your answer sounds
like you are in favour of keeping the maggots comfortable instead
of the patient.” He took a deep breath, his nostrils flared. “You
seem an intelligent and gifted individual. The knowledge you have
shown is astounding for one as young as you, so pray tell me why
you would write such foolishness?”
    “You misunderstood,
sir,” said Roland, his hands trembling in dismay. “In no way have I
ever thought to use patients to test wild theories. I am from a
small village and we have no access to a Healer. We do however have
a brilliant Apothecary who has gone beyond his craft. This is a
treatment he has devised as an alternative to hacking away
someone’s limbs, and he has successfully applied it many times
over. Maggots are creatures born in filth, and true to their
nature, they only eat away the spoiled meat around the wound
leaving the healthy meat intact. If the treatment works, is it not
a valid answer?”
    The seven black-robed
men murmured among themselves while Roland waited in silence. His
stomach churned and he felt nauseas.
    “I am not confident
that allowing you into Academia Amlor is a good idea,” said the
thin-faced man. “My peers, however, believe that you should be
given a chance. Educator Altmoor, since you were the one who
received him I shall leave further instructions to you.”
    Roland felt the
strength drain from his legs and as the black-robed men left the
room he sank to the floor. He looked up at Altmoor and asked, “Does
this mean I’m accepted?”
    “It does, well
done.”
    Altmoor stuck his hand
out and helped Roland to his feet.
    “You will