oday I officially accepted my new position.

It was a morning affair. The crier read the order to the assembled court, and I noticed Fina sitting off to the side. She smiled. I smiled back, but it was forced. After my meeting with Kean, I had gone to the starscopes, only to find them destroyed. After questioning around, I learned that Lady Reiling had wrecked them in a fit of rage, but I wondered if Fina had played a part as well.

Putting these thoughts aside, I approached the duke. Duke Sorley leaned forward on his throne and said, “You are hereby elevated to the position of custodial thaumaturge of Cannaghdown. Do you accept this responsibility to duke and duchy?”

“Yes,” I said.

“The tools, effects, and office are yours. Serve with honor.”