The Magician of Suwa: The Beginning
Valeria
Two months into Fai's thirteenth year, Master Cairu is called away to the western border on the emperor's orders. Rumors of war fly through the barracks and practice yards.
Fai only catches one fearful, suspicious look directed his way before Leiyos tells him to pack up – they will be practicing survival skills this winter.
Fai suspects that isn't all Leiyos will be teaching him, but he's even less eager than his teacher to be in the capitol if war is declared.
With Cairu gone and the court on edge, Fai is far more vulnerable to malicious plots against his life.
Originally posted 3/9/12