Free The Jake Thomas Trilogy: Book 02 - Sword of Light by Steven A. Tolle Page B

with you.”
    “There is no need for that.”  Jake said hurriedly.  “I will be fine and, besides, there is nothing she could do if something did happen.”
    “All right, Jake.  I will trust you.”  Madalin replied.  She headed to the front room.  “Let’s go, Cherise.”  She said to her daughter as she headed out the front door.  Cherise jumped up and, with a wave to Jake, followed her out.
    Jake went out the side door, slowly walking around the side yard and enjoying the sunshine.  He worked his way over to the other side of the house and let Maxis out of his enclosure.  The dog was enthusiastic, bouncing around Jake as he continued to walk around.
    Maxis’ energy seemed to bolster Jake’s.  He moved faster, testing the limits of his strength.  He played and wrestled with the dog, though Maxis would often knock him off-balance.  After a while, though, Jake felt his energy failing, his muscles starting to shake, so he headed for the benches.
    He sat down, grateful to be off his feet, then decided to lie down as his strength continued to wane.  Maxis stayed with him, lying down next to the bench.  With the warm sun overhead, Jake closed his eyes and released his power.  With Maxis close by, he felt that now-familiar sensation return.  He tried to ignore it and, after a few minutes, he nodded off.
    He woke up when Maxis’ bark intruded into that peaceful nothingness.  Maxis barked again and Jake could hear the sound of a horse stopping, hooves clomping on the stones of the street.  Jake embraced his magic, sitting up and seeing a young man in the palace finery, his horse behind him, standing on the other side of the gate.  The young man was looking warily at Maxis, who had moved to stand between him and Jake, teeth bared and growling.
    “It’s ok, Maxis.”  Jake told the dog as he made his way to the gate.  Maxis stopped growling, but stayed close to Jake.
    “Jake Thomas?”  The man said, still watching Maxis.
    “Yes.”  Jake replied.
    “I have been sent from the palace with this message for you.”  The man said, cautiously handing Jake a sealed parchment, then jerking his hand back.  Looking relieved that he still had his hand, he stood there waiting.  Obviously, he was to return with a message from Jake.
    Jake cracked the seal and opened the parchment.  He read the message, seeing that it was an invitation to the palace for a dinner and ceremony to take place tomorrow night.  Norlan and his family were invited to attend as Jake’s guests.
    “I need to check with Norlan and Madalin first.”  Jake said.  “Can you come back later?”
    “I have many duties, so it is unlikely.”  The man replied, moving back and swinging up onto his horse.  “Simply send a message to the palace.  I will inform them to expect a reply from Jake Thomas.  Good day.”  With that, he turned and rode off.
    It was late afternoon when Madalin and Cherise returned, carrying several packages.  Jake tried to help them, but Madalin politely waved him off.  Jake followed them into the house, chatting with Cherise.  After Madalin had finished putting away her goods, Jake told her about the invitation.  She brightened at the thought of attending a palace function, but simply said.  “I will need to speak with Norlan before we commit to going.”
    Jake went back outside, sitting on the benches and enjoying the rest of the day, Maxis staying close by.  Shortly before dark, Hailyn appeared.  Maxis rushed to the gate, happily greeting Hailyn as she came into the yard.  Hailyn petted the dog, who obviously enjoyed the attention.
    “How are you, Jake?”  Hailyn asked as she walked up to Jake, stopping several feet away.  “You seem to be feeling better.”
    “I’m the same as before.”  Jake replied.  “When I have my power, I feel stronger and can move about, but without it, I can barely lift my arms.”
    “You shouldn’t expect a sudden change.”  Hailyn said, looking closely at