Che the Mesmer 1

"Che! Che!!" Across the busy marketplace a voice called. The scribe looked on helplessly as the dark brown haired boy continued on. There was very little hope that the scribe would get through the crowd in time to catch him before he went out the arch. A lean hand clamped down on the scribes shoulder.

"let me."

A tall lean man stood up in the crowd, creating a small circle of space around him. He had that effect.

"CHE LYANDERSON!" his bellow carried easily across the crowd. Not only did Che turn around but every last one of the people in the crowd stopped what they were doing to look. The scribes face turned beet red.

"uh, thank you Sir Rydus."

"Don't mention it. Send him to me when you're done will you?"

Che waited for the scribe to scramble through the crowd as the noise and bustle continued on its way.

"Che .." The scribe panted. "You have .. messages."

Che smiled, his light blue eyes twinkling, "Oh really? So important it couldn't wait?"

"no I'm afraid not. And Sir Rydus would like to see you."

"Well, that can only mean it's important, lets go see what he wants."

Flinging his dark brown hair out of his eyes he started back the way he came causing the crowd to complain. 

"sorry .. my apologies, 'scuse me... just going..this..way, sorry!"

The scribe stuck to Che's side like a burr. They reached the courtyard in time to see Sir Rydus welcoming several groups of families. Che noted that Sir Rydus carried his bright red leather hauberk with ease. His weapon was strapped to his side and his leather covered shield had been polished. Even the nubs of steel were shiny.

"There are more all the time .." The scribe whispered.

"Well, it's dangerous outside the gates anymore." replied Che. He waited until Sir Rydus was done and approached. "Sir Rydus?"

"Ah, Che, there you are. It's your lucky day. It seems that Sebedoh the Mesmer has taken an interest in you. She thinks she could teach you some things."

Che's eyes opened wide. "Sebedoh? Me? Really?? But I'm only 17!"

Something in Sir Rydus eyes caused the scribe to give pause, though it didn't seem to dampen Che's spirits a bit. The boy nearly jumped for joy at the thought of such a prestigious teacher.

"Well there are boys going into the marching units at 16 now so don't be so surprised. Besides, you're good. Very good. Why don't you follow the scribe and grab your other messages before you head out. There may be a few opportunities for you to practice along the way."

"Yes Sir, thank you Sir!"

Sir Rydus's smile faded quickly. He turned to glance out at the huge wall that separated Amylore from the increasing violence that was occurring there. On the other side, Amylore city with it's peaceful arches leading to the lakeside, the Hills, and Myror's Valley were all safe with a few normal exceptions here and there. The city however, stood in ever increasing danger. Only rising stars such as Che might be able to slow or stop the advance of the Sheharr invasion.