The Vlakan King (Book 3) by Jim Greenfield Read Free Book Online

Majesty. I do not have the resources of Aulan. Do you suspect war? Or perhaps they are moving to a new land?"
    "They would never move with that creature, Galamog still in her lair," said the Rose Bishop. "It must be war."
    "The fact that the supplies are waiting in the towns or their origin leads me to suspect Mordyn plans to use those supplies instead of packing it with them. An army that moves quickly without the drag of a supply train is a dangerous foe."
    "I see. Well I can have my mages strengthen the walls of the city and prepare healing potions. We can spell the water to keep it fresh and clean. We cannot create the water so a great amount must be stored in the city."
    "I may want more than that from you," said Armana. "We may need your mages to fight."
    "That's the problem, isn't it," said Artus. "We have been forbidden battle magic training in no small part to Aulan's efforts. Now there is a need for it and few who remember the spells. We have the books but it is the interpretation that will cause problems. Untrained magics spouting unfamiliar spells will be worse than no magic."
    "I said it would not be useful," said the Rose Bishop.
    Armana turned sharply.
    "Aulan, this was caused by your people. No, I will not listen to your denials. For years you have been chipping away at the activities of the Mage Academy and it will stop. Artus, the Mage Academy is free to set its own agenda from this date forth. I want you to train your mages for battle. Find whom you need to help. Summon any wizards, mages, even sorcerers who are friendly to Calendia. We must be able to defend ourselves before the Mordyn army is at our doorstep."
    "Your majesty," said the Rose Bishop. "This is madness. Artus has ever wanted this power to hold over your head."
    "Enough! I wish to speak to Artus without you, Aulan. Step outside. I will recall you when I want you."
    Aulan looked into the red face of the High King and made a decision. He bowed to king and departed.
    "Am I wrong to trust you?" asked Armana. "One of my trusted advisors thinks so."
    "No, your Highness. I am a student of Gerrand who raised our art to support the rightful rulers of the land. Gerrand argued that our expertise was in the arts, not ruling kingdoms. He wanted all magicians to place themselves above nationalism and share knowledge to the betterment of all. That is what we do. All magicians share the resources of the Academy and take what they learn back to their home. But none use their magic as a weapon. As for the Mage Academy, it serves the High King and no other."
    "That is what I expect from you. The difference is now I require the Mage Academy to study warfare for the defense of all who pledge alliance to the High King. This request is not for Nantitet alone, nor is it for Calendia alone. Curesia, Wierland and Paglo are all in the path of Galamog. Do you have any students who are more adept at this type of magic?"
    "I have a couple candidates and there are a few wizards and sorcerers on Anavar that we can ask for assistance. There are some areas where our knowledge is weak but overall I think we can provide what you will need. We shall have a few battle mages ready within the month."
    "A month! That is faster than what I would expect based on your earlier comments."
    "Those words were for Aulan's benefit," said Artus. "He can't protest what he doesn't know is happening."
    "I see," said Armana, smiling. "You do fit into this court rather well, Artus. Are you sure you don't want to be a fulltime advisor? I could use you on the High Council."
    "Thank you, your Highness, but I am better suited to be High Mage. I desire pupils who are willing to learn, not stubborn naysayers."
    "Leaving me to deal with them? I thank you for that."
    "You are the High King; behead them if they annoy you."
    "Ha! Don't tempt me!" Armana grinned. "I know who I would start with." To his credit he did not glance at the door.
    "What do you know about Mordyn?" asked Armana. "Even though Aulan's