Story 4. History lesson.
"So let's start. What was the name of the Supreme Spellbinder that established the Order?"
"Larius the Great".
"Right. Who were the first Regents of this country?"
"His sons – Aaron and Alegas".
"When did the Council of Regents take its present form consisting of three members?"
"About one and a half centuries ago".
Ashka was holding an octagonal velvet-bound book in her hands and was walking through the room slowly while Gryvon, who was sitting at the table, diligently tried to refresh the information he got during the history lessons. Of course he did read, of course he learned, but it didn't make him more self-confident…
"Whom do we call the enemies of Spellbinders?"
"Marauders – fugitive criminals and barbarians, living in the forests, attacking peasants and taking our contribution".
"The first woman that became a Regent?"
"Carah the Generous".
"Whom was she set by?"
Gryvon became silent suddenly, hesitating. Ashka turned the page and stopped looking at the quite Apprentice's back.
"Gryvon, who set Carah as a Regent?"
Silence. Only the fuss became even more evident. Ashka felt some trick and came closer.
"Hey, look at me!"
"Gryvon met the girl's eyes with an honest look.
"Did you prepare for the examination?"
"Yes, Spellbinder".
"Then answer the question".
Silence once again. Viewing the Apprentice from head to toes, Ashka noticed some dark spots on a sweater sleeve.
"Show me your hands".
"But Spellbinder…"
"Don't you dare argue with me!"
Sighing, Gryvon stretched out his hands.
"You know what I mean. Roll up your sleeves".
He had to obey. There were quick notes on both Gryvon's wrists, containing the dates and names. Apparently, the ink hadn't dried out, so the uniform was stained and noticed by the Spellbinder.
"Rascal boy! – Ashka smacked his hands for several times. - You tried to play such a silly trick on me? It isn't going to work out, Gryvon. You either study hard, or come back to Clayhill!"
"Forgive me, Spellbinder, forgive me! – the boy exclaimed, kneeling and blushing. - I won't do it again, believe me!"
Ashka, viewing him with a displeased glance, crossed the room and opened the door.
"Bring me some hot water! – she ordered to the passing by servants, then turned to her Apprentice. - We are to continue the examination after you wash your hands!"