Eramus shook his head. "I don't want your father upset with me."
"Will I see you here tomorrow? Promise me I will."
Eramus chuckled. "I promise; I'll be here."
He stood and assisted Evree from the ground. He had half a mind to walk her back to the village, but Eramus wasn't sure the people or Kieran would respond well to that.
"I think I'll stay here for a while," he said. "I've always had to hide my magic, but now that everyone knows, I can use it without fear someone will see. It might sound strange, but I wouldn't mind the opportunity to practice."
"Practice. And then I expect you to show me more tomorrow."
"You have a deal, Miss Evree." Eramus held out his hand, and she shook it, a wide grin spreading across her face.
She darted forward and pressed her lips against his cheek, taking him by surprise again. "Goodbye, Eramus." She held her skirts as she strolled away. Eramus placed his palm against his face. He could get used to those kisses.
Eramus whirled his hands through the air, conjuring orbs of light and clouds of magical dust. Practicing in the open was an incredible freedom he'd never experienced. He'd never felt more himself, and after spending the entire morning with Evree, his power was stronger than usual. Eramus had noted that his emotions affected the strength of his magic, especially when he was happy or angry.
He willed the blue energy to surround a long fallen tree. Eramus lifted it into the air and sat it down several yards away.
"Impressive."
The unfamiliar voice sent shivers down his spine. He spun around. A man dressed in a long, black cloak stood before him, his mouth contorted into a crooked smile.
"Who are you?" asked Eramus. Something about the man unnerved him, or perhaps it was the fact that a stranger had witnessed his magic. Either way, Eramus's insides twisted.
The man chuckled, as if Eramus's reaction amused him. "For now, you may think of me as a friend, Eramus. I'm here to help you."
