@cecaelianseawitch
Mozenrath resented being loaned out like a common servant. He was his master’s apprentice and heir. Nothing less. But Destane didn’t see it that way. And he lacked the power to make him…for now. At least this time Xerxes would be accompanying him on his little sojourn.
Destane stood with him on the shore of a deserted island and blew into the enchanted conch shell that would let the Sea Witch know they were here. The old man inclined his head respectfully to her when she arrived, and after a glare Mozenrath did too. Xerxes nodded his head and hissed in greeting.
Mozenrath had shot up nearly a foot since he’d least seen Ursula. His last growth spurt had left him long-limbed and gangly with hands and feet slightly too big for him. His dark curls were gathered up under his turban and it and his clothes were made of fine materials. Destane wouldn’t have his apprentice looking shabby in front of others, though when they were home at the Citadel it was another story.
“Ursula. A pleasure as always. As agreed, in exchange for what you’ve brought me, my apprentice is once again all yours for the next three moons, and this time my familiar as well.” Destane gave the witch an evil smirk. “Feel free to discipline the little viper as much as you need to keep him in line, so long as I get him back in one piece. Unlike him, Xerxes knows better than to disobey.”
Mozenrath knew for a fact that last bit wasn’t strictly true. But better the old man remain ignorant that the little eel’s loyalties had shifted. “Will you be leaving us now, Master?” he asked with a deliberately blank expression.
Destane snorted. “I am. And if you have any sense, you’ll soon wish I wasn’t.” He turned to Ursula “You know how to contact me if there are any…problems. But I trust you’ll be able to manage the brat.” He bowed once more. “Until then, Farewell.” He conjured up an electric blue and black portal and vanished into its depths.
Mozenrath wasn’t sorry to see him go. At least being under Ursula’s watch would be a change of pace. And with any luck he might learn something powerful enough to fell his master sooner rather than later. “Well then. Shall we take our leave as well?” It was nearly as warm as the desert, but the ocean breeze tempered the rays of the almost friendly looking sun. While the waters shone a brilliant aquamarine as they lapped against the shore. “It’s a little cheery here for my taste.”