A GAME OF THE GODS

Before he could move a muscle, he found himself being held by dark, smoke like bindings.  His arms and legs were bound tightly and the bindings were constricting slowly.  Xetius approached Demetri with an evil smile.  “You are perhaps too smart for your own good, child.”  As he reached into his robes, he continued to speak.  “Something tells me that you have somehow been privy to things…of importance;  things I should like to know.” 

Xetius now held a small vile of thick dark liquid in his left hand, a liquid Demetri supposed was meant for him.  “I suppose you wouldn’t mind volunteering any information?”

Demetri remained silent. 

“No? Well, no matter, soon I will see all.  I will be able to extract whatever you have in that precious little mind of yours.  Do not worry, it is not painful.  In fact when this is over, you will remember nothing.  Just try and relax, make this easy on yourself.”

As the evil mage began to raise the vial and uncork it, Demetri’s eyes began to glow with a lavender color.  They seemed to be seeping a vapor of purplish energy, as his jaws clenched in anger. 

Xetius paused momentarily and then chuckled softly.  “My, my, my…it seems I had you pegged wrong all along.  You do not possess magic at all, but something more primitive.  It is thing that few mortals on Aethion have the strength to master.  Sorcery is extremely volatile.  This is why magic is the prevalent force; it can be manipulated without the danger to oneself.  I could, perhaps, provide one who would teach you how to master such an ancient art; that is if you were to accept her most gracious offer.”  

Demetri was now finding it harder to draw breath.  The invisible fingers that held him continued to constrict. 

“This is your last chance, boy.  If you agree, I will spare you this…she would spare you.”

Demetri could barely find the air to mouth a few simple words.  “I…will…….not…” 

Xetius was impressed with the willpower of one so young.  He shrugged.  “You should have taken the offer.  Such abilities are hard to come by.  But have it your way, young sorcerer.  Either way, you will serve her.  Now then, be a good little boy.  Open up and say……aaahhhh……”