Read Meuric for Free Online Page B

sat down upon a fallen tree. He stared hard into the water, unwilling to make eye contact with his friend. Because of the depression, the site was hidden from view from the fort and surrounding ground making it the ideal spot to hide, which suited his mood right now. It was also known as an area frequently used by courting couples and he was glad to see that there were none here that day.He shivered feeling the air suddenly cool even though San, the sun god, still blazed strongly above them. Without another word, Paden sat down next to him. He remained silent, not even attempting to broach a conversation. He simply waited. It was not until Meuric began to shift his position, uncomfortable with the extended silence, that Paden raised the subject.
    â€œSo what happened back there?” he asked gently. “Thank the gods that I had come upon you just as you attacked Fabien. The skill, speed and aggression that you demonstrated were…” He searched for the correct word. “Unprecedented. I worry what would have happened if I had not appeared in time.”
    â€œHow did you know where I was?” asked Meuric. He did not ask why he had searched him out. Paden always made a point of saying hello whenever he was in the area.
    â€œYour mother,” stated Paden.
    Meuric brightened instantly and looked up expectantly. “You called in with my mother?” Paden chuckled and shook his head. “Drive that thought from your mind, little one. I am tired having only just returned from Lahm’bert and your mother still misses your father far too much.”
    Meuric smiled with hope. “Maybe all she needs is someone else to be with? I know that she likes you and though father will always be in our memories, a memory will not keep her warm at night.”
    â€œWise words from someone so young,” laughed Paden. “I think that maybe you see too much. However, I will tell you this and I will be equally honest with your mother. Though I am very fond of her my role in the Conclave and my duties as an Oak Seer will always have to come first.”
    Meuric could not keep the look of disappointment from his face and dropped his chin. Paden reached out and placed a hand on the young boy’s shoulder. “I have known you since your father died. I have loved you ever since then. To me, you are the son that I have always craved for.” He smiled and released a small sigh. “Maybe I will call in with her after all if she can live with my role.”
    â€œMy father was a War Band Lieutenant,” Meuric reminded Paden stiffly. “His duty to the protection of the Daw’ra tribe and to the Kel’akh Nation had to come before us at times. My mother knows what it is to hold an important role.” Meuric brightened and lifted his head, a sudden comprehension bursting within his mind. “So you have finally passed the Conclave’s tests? You are now a member of the Conclave?”
    Paden nodded. “I am indeed, little one. I have become a Minister of Education, though a lowly one. My first role is to be an instructor to those wanting to become Oak Seer. It was hard going but I finally made it.”
    â€œHow old are you now?” asked Meuric suddenly.
    â€œI have seen thirty-two summers already,” answered Paden.
    A low whistle escaped from Meuric’s lips. “You are that old!”
    The Oak Seer laughed aloud. “You say old, I say experienced.”
    â€œCan you tell me about them all now, Paden?” asked Meuric expectantly. “You promised me the next time that you returned you would tell me more of Wardens Keep.”
    He saw the Oak Seer open his mouth as if to ask another question, then pause and shake his head. Relief swamped the boy. He could guess at what Paden was wishing to know.
    â€œAs you say, Meuric,” said Paden. “We will play it your way. What more is it that you wish to learn?”
    â€œEverything,” chuckled the