(32) When all else is lost the future still remains

“No way in hell,” Shan barked out before realizing he was being a bit of an ass to so forcefully deny any wish to train Race. “Sorry kid but I really don’t have the time either.”

From behind him Kayne winked at Addie. She bit back a grin, knowing it wouldn’t help defuse what could become a situation. Instead she patted Race’s arm. “Don’t mind him,” she said in seeming innocence, “he’s just a bit stressed right now. Once all this is over I’m quite sure he’d love to teach you.”

Shan scowled at her then turned away from all of them to check out the computers lining one wall.

“I don’t think he’s interested,” Race said quietly, his gaze locked on the back of Shan’s head.

“Of course he is. He’ll see the logic of it, just give him time.”

::Addie, quit,:: Shan growled in her mind.

::Quit what?:: she responded, her tone amused. ::I think you’d be the perfect tutor. You’re quite skilled…in magic and sorcery.::           

::That is not what I meant. Don’t encourage the kid. I’m not the least bit interested in…anything he might have to offer.::

::Of course you’re not. I know that. However…::

Shan spun around then took a deep breath. “With no power, the computers are useless, which means so is the security system.”

“Even I could have told you that,” Race commented. “But, unless whoever the sorcerer is who wants Addie can teleport in here, this place is easily secured without electronics. Especially,” he shot a rather scathing look at Shan, “since you’re such a powerful magician. Do you pull rabbits out of hats too?” With that said he turned on his heel and left the room.

“I do believe you’ve hurt the boy’s feelings,” Kayne commented.

“Yeah, well he’ll get over it. Right now we need to decide if we’re actually going to stay here or find some other place.”

“I shall tell you right now we are not taking this to the alternative plane. The students are still on edge after the battle there. My personal opinion is you could not do much better than here. I know it will be hard on both of you, but you could consider it a way to exorcise the last of your ghosts. Besides,” Kayne tapped his lip thoughtfully, “with some work after this small problem is dealt with, this place would make an excellent site for a school to train battle-mages. It is remote; no civilians would be harmed if someone’s magic went awry. Consider it, Darshan.”