Semaj: The Mage

Semaj had his nose buried in a large magical tome in the library. He was an average looking man. He was a bit on the small side for a Human male, and had an about average build. He was clean-shaven. His sandy brown hair was buzz-cut short everywhere except for a small ring around his crown, which was about two inches long and stood straight up. His eyes were a glimmering, almost bewitching, hazel. He wore a very plain button-up lime green shirt with matching pants and matching shoes. His long flowing mage's robes were only a slightly lighter shade of the same lime green. Additionally, the size of the robe was significantly larger than he really needed. His hood, when he wore it up, was very large and hid most, if not all, of his face. Also, his sleeves were much too long and, for the most part, covered his hands. He closed the tome he was reading and stood from where he was sitting. When he moved to put the book away, his robe did not move with his motion, and thus made it look like he was floating rather than walking. Today the sun was shining brightly and he felt the need to remain sequestered inside more so than usual.

With no warning, the cover of his tome began to billow smoke profusely. Quickly, he dropped the tome to the floor and stepped back. A tall man in plate mail emerged from the smoke that now filled the room. Semaj noticed instantly that the man's face was hidden under his helm. Quickly he drew back his hand in preparation to cast a spell should the armored man mean trouble.

"There is no need to fear me, Mage."

"I never said I feared you," said Semaj.

"A point well met. But I assure you a mean you no harm."

"Then what do you mean for me?" asked Semaj.

"I seek your help."

"And who are you that I would give my help?" asked Semaj beginning to feel a bit superior.

"I am the Avatar of Helm."

All color left Semaj's face. "My apologies for my insolence, Sir," said the Mage.

"Good Mage, you have done nothing for which you need to apologize."

Semaj relaxed a bit and returned to his seat. He closed his eyes for a few moments to collect himself and when he was ready he once more opened his eyes to look at the Avatar. "Whatever it is that you are asking of me, I will do," he said to the Avatar.

"Do you not wish to know what it is that I am asking of you before you say yes?"

"No, I do not," said the mage. "This way I cannot tell you no."

To be continued...