Free Fire Mage by John Forrester

turned his attention to the map, sealed with a waxy stamp, the sun inscribed within. He glanced up at Mara. She nodded, urging him to open it. He broke the seal and the map released a hissing sound like a spitting snake. As he unfurled the map, golden light spilled out from within, revealing the shimmering landmass of the continent Talis was familiar with and other areas unknown: a large snowy island to the north, scattered islands off to the west with one long, spindly island running alongside, and far to the east, beyond the city of Khael, was a lush, tropical island. When he stared at that island, he could feel warm sunlight flowing through his veins. That was it, the island… They had to travel to the island.
    Mara seemed to have followed his gaze, for she pointed at the island. “Is that where we’re going?”
    “I think so…I feel something strong there. I never knew such islands existed—”
    “I’ve seen a map in Master Holoron’s library showing the western islands…but not this one.” Her finger ran along the map, and she winced as if noticing the heat that emanated from within.
    “See, I told you. There’s the power of Light Magic within….”
    “You have to tell the Elders about the map. Don’t shake your head, you have to do it! Last night was only the first attack…next time will be worse.”
    Next time. Talis felt the hairs along the back of his neck prickle. He pictured the dark sorcerers raining fire and lightning bolts down on the city. And that was only an aerial attack. If the Jiserian ground forces came with siege machines, what would be left of their city? Or could the map help them to win?
    “Just take the map to them—the Sej Elders will listen—take it at once.” Mara shoved her hands on her hips, as if daring him to think otherwise.
    Talis bowed his head, giving in. He had never been to the Sej Elder chambers and wondered what it would be like to finally set foot inside. His father was a leading member of the Elders, but had refused Talis entry until he came of age. He was about to head downstairs when he stopped, realizing the problem. There was no way they’d let him inside. Especially now that the Elders were debating on how to respond to the Jiserian attack.
    “Who’s going to listen to us…we’re just kids.” Talis glanced at Mara. “Even if we went, they won’t let us in. It’s forbidden.”
    “Find a way around…let’s sneak inside.” Mara’s eyes glittered dangerously.
    “The entrance is heavily guarded—by multiple soldiers and wizards and at different levels—especially now we’re at war. And my father isn’t popular these days. His seat at the head of the Elders is at risk. If I did something crazy like trying to break in and see them, he’d be furious.”
    “Talk to Master Viridian.”
    “He’s in chambers with them also! We should just wait for them outside.”
    “Wait? Do you think we have time to wait? This is directly related to the war. Whether we like it or not we’re part of the conflict now. This could mean everything to our struggle!”
    “I know, I know. Okay, let’s just go and talk to the guards….”
    Two burly guards stood at attention outside the tall gate surrounding the Sej Elders Chambers. More soldiers marched out front. The city was priming itself for war.  
    “Mind your own business, young master.” The larger guard frowned at Talis as he approached.
    “Watch your tongue,” Mara said, and glowered at the guard. “Do you know who you’re speaking to?”
    “A young whelp and his sassy lassie.” The guard laughed stupidly with his fellow.  
    “You happen to be speaking to Talis Storm, son of Master Garen Storm.” Mara whistled like the guard was in trouble. “Didn’t plan on that, did you? Are you okay? Your face seems pale suddenly. Now be a good guard and go fetch us the runner, we demand an audience with the Elders.”
    “Demand an audience?” the other guard said, “aren’t you a little tart. Even if