He stood in front of the bookcase, his eyes scanning the spines of the books, looking for something interesting. He had just finished reading Lumeric's Six, though most of the magic was too advanced for him to even try. Finally, he came across a title that caught his eye, and pulled it off the shelf. As he flipped through the book, he felt the familiar rush of excitement and terror of being caught. His heart leaped into his throat and he spun around as Kaspar's voice sounded from the other room. He shouted something about hats and tarrie-cats, and then went back to snoring.
Malingo took a deep, calming breath and tried to relax. He hated living like this, in constant fear of getting beaten. Kaspar breathing down his neck all Night long, ordering him about. Studying magic in the dark room while the wizard slept, in terrified anticipation of the Night when he'd wake up and catch Malingo at his studies. He touched a finger to his bruised back.
Malingo reluctantly went back to his book, keeping an eye on the door. He started when he saw something drip onto the page, and was surprised to realize he was crying. He wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. Oh, how he hated this. Someday he'd find a spell he could use, and find the nerve to use it. Someday he'd face Kaspar. Someday he'd escape. Things had to change eventually. These books, these spells, they kept him from losing hope. Just barely, but he didn't need much. Someday things would change. Someday.
End