14 A Mages Invitation (1/2)
”It doesn't look like Nostrum's tower.” Alexis remarked as they stood before Nikolai's Mage tower.
”I don't think any Mage, let alone Nikolai is interested in building a tower of bone except for that madman.” Elya replied wryly. It had been one of the most horrifying periods of the war when they assaulted the Mad Mages tower. They fought through hordes of beasts and mutated creatures while the Empires Mages bombarded the structure with an array of devastating spells. She shuddered a little at the thought, remembering the pulsating flesh-like corridors and Nostrum's crazed laughter.
”So, how do we get in?” Alexis glanced at the forbidding doors and ominous stone arch that loomed over them.
”I'm not sure, but I don't think we should knock.” Mages were notoriously suspicious of outsiders, guarding their towers with arcane traps that could stun or even instantly vaporise intruders, and an intruder was anyone who approached. ”Maybe we can call for him?”
”We don't even know if he's inside but calling randomly may not be the best way to maintain our image.” Alexis scratched her cheek, observing the door for any marks that would give them hints.
”Khanbikeh?” A young voice made them turn around.
”Ataman Jarek? Why are you here?” Elya twitched at his approach.
”I serve the Khan within the tower.” The boy declared, chest puffed out in pride, adjusting a rucksack over his shoulder.
”Serve?”
”I am the Khan's apprentice.”
She exchanged a glance with Alexis. Magical ability was very rare and Jarek might be the first of the Dragon Lords in the Empire who showed the talent.
”Are you waiting for the Khan?”
”We were invited by Nikolai.”
”Oh.” Jarek nodded and pushed the door open, smirking at Alexis' flinch. ”It's very safe. The Khan only keeps traps on the staircase and windoes, so he can use the ground floor as an office.”
The tower looked even larger on the inside, filled with all sorts of furniture, books and magical equipment. Jarek dropped the rucksack he was carrying and gestured for them to sit on a couch. Satisfied they were comfortable, he started to sort items from his bag, creating several small piles based on some incomprehensible system.
The actions of the young boy were exactly what Elya would expect of a Mages tower, mystical and surrounded by books full of arcana, pulses of magical light shining from all the equipment. She caught sight of several magical weapons resting on a bench and went over to check them. There was a sword that lay to the side and she drew it, marvelling at the weapon, beautiful and deadly. She swung it a few times and was astounded with how easily it cut through the air. It was almost as powerful as the blade she'd taken from the Suzdal's treasure vault and it was just casually left out here.
”Jarek! Did you finish?” A voice echoed throughout the tower and Elya jumped, almost dropping the sword. Nikolai hopped down the steps with a book, frowning at whatever was written within. ”I need those shards of Kalma bone to finish the enchantment and we don't have much time left.” He looked up and froze, hands falling to the side.
”Good morning Nikolai.” Elya smiled weakly, and the Count blinked.