Red Skies - Randy "Red" Learns

Randy approached the Sun Temple in hesitation.  He trusted Diana and this was a shot most boys didn't get.  But suddenly he felt that familiar fear scratching at his chest.  New places, new mannerisms, and new personalities to dance around.  Still, he remembered how hard life was back home.  Giving his parents a portion of his earnings was the only thing he could do for them right now.  And if this new life led to working in a manor, then he would be able to help his family move out of their rundown place and into a more respectable dwelling that kept the chill out in winter and bugs out in summer.

Taking a deep breath and clutching the note tightly, Randy walked through the open gate and stopped in shock.  His mana was strong enough at this point for him to tell the differences in the soil he was in contact with, and what made up the ground here was astounding.  Gryphon's Rest was build in gentle hills covered in rich dirt to grow the thickest grass around just like the capital, Gryphon Heights.  But here, in this Sun Temple, there was definitely different soil.  Thick clay under the buildings and sand for everywhere else.  He couldn't hide the surprise from his face.

It wasn't until a concerned man in a red robe was standing in front of him that he came to.  "Uh, hi," Randy stammered, holding out the note.

The man took it hesitantly, still eyeing Randy with concern before looking down to read.  He was quiet for a moment, then looked up curiously, "I see you are to stay with us.  I'll be brief as it is almost time for the evening prayers."  He stepped sideways and put an arm across Randy's shoulders.  Randy flinched but leaned in to the priest.  The priest noted the reactions which confirmed Randy's background more than words could say.  "This is the courtyard.  I'll give you the chore of keeping wood split for the stoves.  We have several in the kitchen and more under the washrooms."  Seeing Randy's startled expression, he laughed, "we have hot water for baths - yes.  And the floors are heated so you don't have to worry about chilly nights.  With fall coming, that will be more and more a relief.  The wood piles are in the back.  Just make sure to stack enough before you leave in the morning and enough before bed that the stoves can be fed while you are away."  

Randy was led inside, mute in awe.  Simple wooden structures, with a common room for sleeping and a common room for eating, there wasn't much to the place.  The center sanctuary was decorated with candles and writings, otherwise it was all just wooden.  "Thank you, for taking me in."

"Yes, well, let's get you fed.  Then you can chop some wood.  I read that you are a mage?  How strong is your mana?"  Seeing Randy shrug, he continued, "it doesn't matter.  We will strengthen you both physically and mentally so that you will become a stronger mage.  Now let me show you the cubby you can keep your things in."