Chapter IV
Jestaris returned to his seat and carefully sat back down on the huge stone chair. He smoothed the wrinkles on his red robe with his hands that looked much younger than his own and continued to speak to Caramon, but his eyes were still fixed on the young man in white. Caramon Malfoy, you should understand now. Unless we confirm that Raistlin will not use his nephew, your son's body, to return to the world, we will never allow Palin to continue learning magic, or even accept the trial.
In particular, Dunbar said in a heavy tone, the faction that the young man was loyal to had not yet been determined.
What do you mean? Caramon frowned. Accept the trial? He was still a long time away from this step, right? As for the position he chose, wasn't he already wearing a white robe?
It was you and my mother who chose to put on the white robe for me. Palin, who finally spoke, looked straight ahead and deliberately avoided his father's gaze. When there was only an awkward silence in response to Palin, he made an angry gesture. Forget it, Dad. You and I both know that if I hadn't put on the white robe, you wouldn't have let me learn magic. I don't even need to ask!
A young man had to pledge his loyalty to a certain faction. Only under such circumstances could he possibly summon the true power of magic. Dunbar said softly. He had to go through the trial before he could make a real decision.
Trials! What do you mean by talking about the trial?？Let me tell you, he hasn't even decided whether he wants to accept this damn trial. It seemed to me-Caramon stopped abruptly and turned his eyes to his son's face. Palin stared at the ground, his cheeks flushed, and his lips pressed together.
" Well, don't worry about it," Caramon took a deep breath and muttered. He could hear his two sons twisting uneasily behind him, the sound of Tenny's sword hilt clashing, and Shidon's low cough. He could clearly feel the mages 'gazes on him, especially Dalama's mocking smile. If only Palin had a chance to be alone with him! He could explain. Caramon sighed. He felt that they should have discussed this matter before. But he had always hoped…
His back was facing the mages, and he was facing his son. Palin, what camp can you choose? he said angrily, trying to make up for his previous mistake. You're a good man, son! You like to help others and serve people! The white robe's choice was obvious…
" I don't know if I like to serve people or not," Palin roared out of control." You thought I would do this, but look at what you've done to me!" You yourself have to admit that my magic skills and abilities are not as good as my uncle's when he was my age. This was because he was wholeheartedly focused on studying magic! He didn't want anything to disturb him. The lesson I've learned is that one must put magic first and the world second....
Caramon closed his eyes in pain and listened to his son, but it seemed to be said by another voice. A soft whisper and a hoarse voice said, One must put magic first and the world second. If not, he would cut himself off from the ground. He felt a hand grab his arm. Dad, I was wrong, Palin said softly. I should have talked to you first, but I knew it would hurt you. And there was also his mother. The young man sighed. You also know that Mom…
Yes, said Caramon in a suppressed voice, reaching out his giant arms to grab his son. I know what your mother thinks. He cleared his throat and tried to smile. She might throw things at you. I've been treated like that before. If I remember correctly, she threw my armor at me. However, her aim was very poor, especially when it was aimed at her loved ones.
For a moment, Caramon choked and could not continue. He just stood there with his son in his arms. He looked back at the mage and asked hoarsely, must he make a decision now? Let's go home and talk first, okay? Why can't we wait
Because tonight's weather was very unique, Jestaris replied. The silver moon, the black moon, and the crimson moon all appeared in the sky. The power of magic was at its strongest in hundreds of years. If Raistlin wanted to summon magic power to escape the Bottomless Abyss, tonight was the perfect time.
Caramon lowered his head and combed his son's reddish-brown hair. Then, he put his arm around Palin's shoulder and turned to face the mages with a solemn face.
Well, he said hoarsely, what do you want us to do?
" You must return to the Archmage Tower in Palansus City with me," Dalama said. We're going to try to enter the space-time tunnel from there.
" At least let us accompany you to the outskirts of the Shucan Forest, Dad," Tenny pleaded.
That's right! Shi Dong added a few words eagerly. You'll need us, and you know it. Thanks to the efforts of the knights, the road between Palansus City and this place was open. However, according to the information provided by Monk Bo, some Drakonid bandits would ambush them along the way.
" I'm sorry to disappoint you warriors," said Dalama with a smile on his face." But we won't be using the path between Palansus and this place." " I don't need it," he added.
The two young men looked confused. Tenny stared at the Dark Elf thoughtfully, as if he had expected a trap.
Palin patted Tenny's arm. Brother, he meant to use magic. Before you and Shidon reach the door, Dad and I will be standing in the study room of Dalama in Palansus City. " That's where the legend of Uncle began," he added softly. Palin didn't want anyone to hear the last sentence, but he looked back and found Dalama's focused and understanding eyes. The young man blushed in confusion and fell silent.
Yes, that's our destination, Caramon muttered, his face darkening at the thought. You two had better go home first, he said, glaring at his eldest son. You must tell your mother-
I'd rather fight ogres, Tenny said gloomily.
Me too, Caramon's smile ended with a sigh. He suddenly bent down, as if to make sure that his backpack was fastened tightly, and carefully hid his face in the shadows. " Don't let her stand where she can reach the dishes," he said, pretending to be relaxed.
She understands me. She had been waiting for this moment. In fact, I think she knew when we left. Palin's mother's gentle hug and encouraging smile floated in his mind. At that time, she was standing at the door waving an old towel to them. When Palin rode out of town, he vaguely remembered his mother covering her face with a towel and Dessra holding her comfortingly.
And Caramon stood up and glared at his two sons, his tone quite serious. Both of you promised that Friar Bo would go to Quirinastri to help the elves deal with the Drakonid bandits. You know Cultivator Bo's personality. It took him ten years to talk to us. Now, he finally showed signs of friendliness. I wouldn't let my son go back on his promise to others, especially these stubborn elves. Uh, I mean no harm. He looked askance at Dalama.
" I don't mind," the Dark Elf said. I know Cultivator Bo. Now-
" We're ready," Palin interrupted with a longing expression on his face. I've read about the spell you're about to cast, but I've never seen it with my own eyes. What herbs did you use? Do you emphasize the first or second word? My teacher said--
Dalama coughed a few times. Young man, you're telling everyone our secret, he said quietly. Come on, you can ask your questions in private. Palin put her slender fingers on his arm, and the dark elf pulled the young man away from his father and brother.
Secret? Palin asked in confusion. What do you mean? Did they hear it?
That was just an excuse, Dalama said coldly. He stood in front of Palin and looked at him carefully, his eyes dark and serious. Palin, don't take the risk. Go home with your father and brothers. What do you mean? Palin stared at Dalama in confusion. I can't do it. You heard what Jestaris said. They won't let me take the Trial, or even continue my studies, unless I'm sure Raistlin-Raistlin-
Don't accept the trial, Dalama said quickly. Give up your research. Let's go home. You should be content with what you have.
How was this possible? Palin said angrily. Who do you think I am? Do you think I'd be content with performing magic in a village market? I want more!
Ambition comes at a high price, and your uncle has experienced it firsthand.
The reward was definitely not small! Palin replied. I've made up my mind…
Young man, Dalama approached the man who was much younger than him and placed his cold hand on the other party's arm. His voice turned into a soft whisper, making it impossible to determine whether it came from the ear or the brain. Seriously, why do you think they called you here? He turned to look at Jestaris and Dunbar, who were in the middle of a heated discussion. Do you want to enter the portal and find your uncle or his remains? Wrong! Dalama shook his head. That was impossible. That room had already been sealed. The guards of the tower stood outside the door day and night, under orders to kill anyone who tried to enter. They knew this very well, just like how they knew that Raistlin was still alive! There's only one reason why they sent you to the Great Wizard Tower. Do you still remember the ancient legend of using lambs as bait to capture evil dragons?
Palin stared at Dalama in disbelief, and the blood on his face instantly disappeared. He licked his pale lips and tried to speak, but his throat was so tight and dry that he could not make a sound.
" Looks like you understand," Dalama said coldly, his hands tucked into his black robe. The hunter was teasing the lamb outside the dragon's den. When the hungry dragon swallowed the lamb, the hunters would quietly approach with spears and nets. They would catch the dragon. But it's a little too late for that lamb, isn't it? Do you still insist on going-
Palin suddenly saw the legendary scene of his uncle: Facing the evil Festan Tillas, he felt the cold Blood Chalcedony in his chest eager to absorb his life force and soul. The young man shivered, and his whole body seemed to be soaked in cold sweat. " I'm strong enough," his voice trembled. I can fight like him-
Confronting him? The greatest mage in history? Against the Great Wizard who had challenged the darkness and narrowly won? Dalama laughed at him mercilessly.! You are doomed, young man. You won't even have time to pray. You also know what I will be forced to do if Raistlin succeeds! Dalama's hooded face suddenly approached, and Palin could clearly feel his breathing on his cheek. I must destroy him-I will destroy him. I don't care whose body he occupies. This is also why they handed you over to me. They couldn't be ruthless. Palin trembled and took a step away from the dark elf. Then, he calmed down and stood firmly on his feet.
I... I understand, he said, his voice growing steadier and steadier. I've already told you. Besides, I don't believe that my uncle would hurt me…just like you said.
You don't believe me? Dalama seemed very interested. His hand moved to his chest. Do you want to see how your uncle can hurt others?
No! Palin looked away and explained clumsily with a red face. I know. I've heard the story before. You betrayed him-
So this is my punishment. The dark elf shrugged. Very good. If you make up your mind--
I've already made up my mind.
Then I suggest you say goodbye to your brothers. If you understand what I'm saying, this is the last farewell. Because I don't think you'll ever see each other again.
The dark elf spoke as if he already knew the truth. There was no sympathy or attachment in his eyes. Palin's hand twitched, and his nails dug deep into his muscles, but he still nodded reluctantly.
You better be careful what you say later. Dalama looked thoughtfully at Caramon, who was walking toward Jestaris. Your brothers mustn't be suspicious. He definitely could not doubt it. If he finds out, he will do everything he can to stop you from going. Wait a minute! Dalama grabbed the young man and calmed himself down.
Palin swallowed his saliva, trying to wet his dry and painful throat. He pinched his cheeks to restore his ruddy face and wiped the sweat on his forehead with his sleeve. Then he bit his lower lip to stop himself from trembling, and turned his back to Dalama as he walked toward his brothers.
As he walked, the white robe at his ankles let out a sigh. Brothers, he forced himself to smile. I used to stand at the entrance of the inn and wave at the two of you, wishing you a smooth battle. It's my turn now.
Palin saw Tenny and Shidon quickly exchange a vigilant look and felt as if his throat was choked. The three of us grew up together, so they know me very well. How could I possibly deceive them? He thought bitterly. Seeing their expressions, he knew that he had failed.
" Brother," Palin said softly as he reached out his hand. He hugged the two of them and pulled them closer. " Don't say anything," he whispered. Just let me go! Dad wouldn't understand. Even now, it was hard enough for him.
" I'm not sure if I understand," Tenny said seriously.
Oh, shut up! Shi Dong mumbled. Even if we don't understand, is that important? When you first joined the war, did our little brothers have any guts? Shi Dong hugged his brother tightly with his thick arms. Goodbye, little brother, he said. Take care of yourself... Don't... Don't leave for too long... He shook his head, turned around and walked away, rubbing his eyes and muttering that the magic herbs made him want to sneeze! Words like that.
But the oldest, Tenny, was still standing beside his brother, looking at him seriously. Palin raised his head and looked at him pleadingly, but Tenny's expression became more and more solemn. No, little brother, he said. You have to listen this time.
Dalama watched the two men carefully and saw the young warrior put his hand on Palin's shoulder. He could guess what they were talking about. Seeing Palin retreat, the dark elf shook his head stubbornly, wearing a deadpan mask that Dalama was familiar with. The mage moved his hand to the wound on his chest. Raistlin was too similar to this young man! However, just as Caramon said, the difference between the white moon and the black moon was like heaven and earth…When the Dark Elf noticed that Caramon was looking at his son and taking a step in their direction, his thoughts were interrupted. His slender fingers pressed against the burly man's arm.
You didn't tell the sons what Uncle really was, Dalama said, as Caramon looked at him.
I told them, Caramon retorted with a red face, that they should know. I tried to let them see two different faces of Uncle!
" You have to make up for your mistakes, especially to one of your sons," Dalama replied coldly, looking at Palin.
What can I do? asked Caramon angrily. When the legend about him appeared: In order to save the world, he sacrificed himself and boldly entered the bottomless abyss to save Lady Christanna from the hands of the Queen of Darkness. Can I say it openly? I told them the truth. I told them the story behind it. I told them he lied to Christana, he lured her into the abyss. I also told them that in the end, when she was no longer useful, he abandoned her and let him die alone. I told them, and Tanis told them. But they only believe what they want to believe... I think we're all like that, Caramon said, casting an accusatory look at Dalama. I noticed that you mages didn't step forward to clarify the rumors!
" Rumors are positive publicity for us." Dalama shrugged her slender shoulders. Because of these rumors about Raistlin and his sacrifice, magic is no longer despised by everyone, and we mages are no longer hated. Our school is packed with students, and everyone is desperate for our services. Klarman even invited us to build a new Great Mage Tower there. The Dark Elf smiled bitterly. Ironic, isn't it? What was that?
" Because of his failure, your brother achieved his ultimate goal." Dalama revealed a twisted smile. From a certain perspective, he had already become a god…
Palin, I insist on knowing what happened. Tenny put his hand on Palin's shoulder.
You heard what they said, Tenny. Palin nodded to Jestaris, who was talking to his father. We're preparing to teleport to Palansus City's Great Wizard Tower, where the dimensional passageway is located. Go…go take a look…that's all.
That's right, then I'm a valley dwarf! Tenny growled.
Sometimes your way of thinking is indeed very similar. Palin lost his patience and shook off his brother's thousand arms.
Tenny's face turned red. Unlike Mr. Nice Shidon, Tenny had inherited his mother's curly hair and fiery temper. He also attached great importance to the role of his elder brother, which was sometimes too important for Palin. However, the young man reminded himself that all of this was because he loved him.
He took a deep breath, sighed, and reached out to hug his brother's shoulder. Tanny, it's your turn to listen to me. Shi Dong was right. When you first went out on an expedition, I didn't say anything. At least not when you can see me. But all night I cried alone in the dark. Do you think I don't know that every separation can be a life and death separation? How many injuries have you suffered? Last time, the Tauren's arrow almost hit your heart.
Tenny stared at his feet with a dark face. That's different, he mumbled.
Uncle Tais would say that a chicken with a broken neck was indeed different from a chicken with its head chopped off, but was there a difference to a chicken? Palin said with a smile.
Tenny shrugged and tried to squeeze out a smile. I think you're right. He put his hand on Palin's shoulder and stared at his brother's pale face. Go home, child! Give up on this matter! He whispered in a strong voice. This was not worth it! If anything happens to you, think about what Mom will do... and Dad...
" I know," Palin said. Even though he had tried his best, his eyes were still wet. I've already thought about this matter! I must do it, Tenny. Please try to understand. Tell Mother that I…I love her and my little sisters very much. Tell them I…I will…bring them gifts, just like you and Shidon…
What gift? A dead lizard? Tenny frowned. Or wrinkled bat wings?
Palin rubbed his eyes and said with a smile. Yes, let's put it this way. You'd better get going. Dad is looking at us.
Take care, little brother. Also, pay attention to him. Tenny glanced at his father. This would be very painful for him.
I know. Palin sighed. Believe me, I understand.
Tenny hesitated. Palin saw in his brother's eyes another attempt to persuade him not to go.
Please, Tenny, he said softly. Don't say anymore.
Tenny blinked hard, rubbed his nose, and finally nodded. He touched his younger brother's cheek, played with his reddish-brown hair, and walked to the dark entrance like Shidon to wait.
Palin watched them walk away, then turned around and walked in the opposite direction, bidding farewell to his two predecessors in the hall. So Dalama has spoken to you, Jestaris said to the young man who had come up to him.
Yes, it was! Palin said solemnly. He told me the truth.
Oh, really? Dunbar suddenly asked. Remember what I said, young man. Dalama was wearing a black robe. He was ambitious. No matter what he did, he believed that it would benefit him in the end.
Could it be that the two of you can deny what he said? You used me as bait to capture Raistlin's soul, didn't you?
Jestaris glanced at Dunbar, who shook his head.
Sometimes the truth must be found here. Dunbar reached out and gently touched Palin's chest, in your heart.
Palin's lips curled up in disdain, but he knew that he had to pay equal respect to these two high-ranking mages, so he just nodded. Dalama and my father are still waiting for me. I'll bid you farewell first. If the gods allow it, I will return in a year or two to accept the trial. I hope that I will have the honor to meet the two of you again.
Jestaris didn't ignore the sarcasm and the grief on his young face. This reminded him of another young man who had come to the Great Wizard Tower thirty years ago.
" May Gillian be with you, Palin," the archmage said softly, pulling his hands into his sleeves.
May Paladin, the god of which your name is, guide you, Palin, said Dunbar. Thinking about this, a smile flashed across his dark face, just in case you never see this old Sea Mage again. Please remember that only by doing this for everyone can you obtain the greatest benefits.
Palin did not answer. He bowed again, turned around, and left the crowd. The hall seemed to darken as he walked. He felt as if he was alone. For a moment, he could not see anyone. His brother, father, and Dalama were all hidden in the darkness…But as the darkness fell, the light on his white robe grew stronger and stronger, like the first star in the evening sky.
At that moment, fear surrounded Palin. Did they all leave him? Was he alone in the dark? Then, he noticed a metallic flash beside him. It was his father's armor, which made him heave a sigh of relief. He quickened his pace toward his father, and the hall seemed to light up. He could see the dark elf Dalama standing beside his father, his pale face hidden in the shadows. Palin could see his brothers and the way they raised their hands to say goodbye. Palin was beginning to raise his hand, but Dalama began to chant, as if a dark cloud had covered the light of Palin's white robe and covered Caramon's armor. The darkness grew thicker and thicker, swirling around them until it became a black hole in the shadows of the hall. Then, everything turned into nothingness. The cold, strange light returned to the tower, filling the gap.
Dalama, Palin, and Caramon had all disappeared.
Palin's two brothers picked up their backpacks and began their long and strange journey through the Willis Forest. The thought of telling their red-haired, hot-tempered mother the news made their hearts sink.
Behind them, Jestaris and Dunbar stood on both sides of the huge stone chair, watching with solemn expressions. Then, the two of them chanted an incantation and disappeared. Villais 'Great Wizard Tower once again fell into the shadows, and only his memories kept echoing.
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