The Third Apprentice (22 page)

Taren lifted the
symbol in his hand. Now that Imrit was gone, there was no other who had a claim
to it. Taking a deep breath, he said, “I am Master Taren, and I bind you to me.
We shall be as one, our powers uniting for all time.”

The symbol flashed
red, its searing heat burning into Taren’s hand. He panicked momentarily, wondering
if he had misspoken. As the heat became more intense, Taren attempted to drop
it, but it held fast to his skin. Raising his right arm, he watched as the symbol
burned itself into his flesh, disappearing beneath his skin. Blackened lines
surrounded his hand, weaving their way up his arm. He and the symbol were now
one.

Lana Axe lives in the
Missouri countryside surrounded by dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles. She spends
most of her free time daydreaming about elves, magic, and faraway lands.

For more information, please visit:
lana-axe.com
.