Sunday Excerpt, "Crucible"

Linvin changed his line of questioning. And what of Miri? Is her destiny to die or is there a way to use our power to save her?

To answer the second part of your question first, the Red Sapphire, explained, Magic cannot be used to heal others. If the body is not prepared to handle the energy either by one of the gems or by being born a magician, the absorption of energy would surely kill them. If magicians could heal they would be revered in your culture instead of being treated as unnatural oddities.

As for the first part of your question, I cannot see her destiny. All you can do is what you already have done and tend to her wounds. Perhaps you could create a warm field of magic about her. It would dry her from the rain and promote wellbeing.

Linvin pointed the staff at Miri and thought, Alright. Let us try this.

Good, responded the gem. Concentrate on creating a zone of warm air around her. Red Magic vapor emanated from the Red Sapphire and surrounded Miri’s body. Not too hot now, Linvin was told. We do not wish to cook her. Simply dry and warm her skin. Linvin was tense as he tried to do as he was told. The air he was creating became hot. No, no, the magic stone cried through his head, You are making this too difficult. Relax and just imagine a warm summer breeze. Linvin released a deep breath and relaxed. He thought of one of the temperate winds, which frequented his tree on a summer’s day. Perfect, Master. Now end the projection. Linvin used his mind to tell the gem to stop. The red cloud around Miri quickly dissipated. Linvin felt her arms. They were dry and warm.

That hardly took any effort at all, Linvin noted with surprise.

That was a very minor display of magic, the Red Sapphire conceded. Greater deeds will incur greater exertion. If you are to have your strength for tomorrow, you would do well to take what rest you can tonight.

What about Miri? Linvin asked. What will tomorrow bring for her?

As I said before, Master, I cannot see her destiny. However, if it gives you comfort, few would have survived what she has. There is certain strength about her. She is like no other woman I have ever encountered. That is one of the reasons I think you are so attracted to her.

Now wait just a moment. Linvin protested.

You cannot lie to me, the Red Sapphire told him. I know every thought in your head and understand them sometimes better than you. It is actually amusing to listen to you try to convince yourself you are not enamored with her. Perhaps if you are fortunate, she will feel the same way.

You have wasted too much of this night with questions, Master. Let your mind and body rest. There will be time to worry in the morning. I will rouse you shortly before sunrise as you were about to command.

Linvin felt like he was arguing with himself and finally saw the wisdom of the gem’s words. He leaned his head back and drifted off to sleep.