raven1

You are correct that it is an assumption I made. There were three reasons for it. The first is that Gart said the compulsion charm was used on mages associated with both Urvan and Porvus. Another was from that same discussion that stated Urvan was very serious about beating Jamie, and has been working hard at improving his magic. The last reason is that Urvan was Porvus's assistant for several hundred years. It would seem logical that he have that power now.

Almost forgot! Great chapter Geron. I especially like that Gorge was given the gift of magic. His reaction to it was exactly what I would expect. Surprise, excitement and appreciation! Well written.

Many great points have been made on what happened in the chapter. There are some things that were said by Rolf and Gart that caught my attention. First, there are tunnels under the dam, and these tunnels are being used by the gray mages going to the east. The damn is therefore very dangerous at all times at that level. That's the level they are planning to get to in order to access tunnels going east. Next, Porvus and Urvan can both use the compulsions on others, not just Porvus. What about Lodda? At least one of the two dark mages thinks Lodda is a wraith or even just a ploy created to frighten the other mages. On the other hand, Lodda seems to be the most powerful of the mages, and probably stays out of sight by manipulating his underlings. There was also a hierarchy of power mentioned. Skoda (deceased), Urvan, Porvus and Lodda. I expect the escalating confrontations with Jamie's group will face each in that order. I also wonder if Jamie will capture the magic of his opponents each time. Jamie's trip and talk with Flitch gave him the idea of returning to the castle, probably to share his new knowledge and skills so they are not lost, and can be used to defend the castle. Maybe more if Thorval is present. It did make me wonder why the guys are camping at each location, when the can translocate from a point in the lowlands to the castle to rest, then transport back to travel further west. It seems it would be safer. Finally, at least some of the evil mages plan is known. Mass murder of the people in the Dark Forest and lowlands.

A well written trip back in time to a pivotal point in history for the people of the USA. It is about romance, racial hatred, bigotry, and change. At times it is gut wrenching and others it is joyful. At all times it is a real look at what was really happening in many places in the USA at the time. I loved and hated the characters passionately. The twists in the plot always kept me interested in what would happen next. It ticked off every box in the recommendation for me. It left me feeling satisfied and feeling warm.

Wayne's disappearance had me a bit worried, but it was understandable. The ending was a perfect fit to the story. It felt right that Wayne would bring Ethan to the home of his ancestors to reveal his undying love for Ethan. It is a sacred place in which they could finally consummate their love where untold billions of star could witness. Thanks for another great story, Ivor!

I didn't know the meaning either, but looked it up and found 17 different derogatory words. It's kind of like swears like a sailor on steroids. To guys like Ethan and Wayne it is like dad is saying "I Dare You!" I'm sure the term will appear again. Seriously, although corporal punishment was still prevalent in many states in the 80's, it was rarely used to the level in this town. I also feel that there were many villains that went into hiding by sacrificing Jackson, Reynolds and the two team captains. I honestly think Jerry was a hero, and is hopefully better off with his aunt. One thing does ring very true in this chapter. Even in the best of school districts in any of the states in the 80s, cases involving employees like Jackson and Reynolds would have been handled exactly like this rather than face the public and allow the employee(s) face justice for their crimes.

A very intriguing dark tale of betrayal and revenge. I could picture this as one of the Canterbury Tales if Geoffrey Chaucer were a modern writer. A well told story that feels like an unusual, divergent form of a morality play. Very worth the read. Beware, there is some very violent and disturbing imagery.

Very dark, but extremely well written. A compelling tale of betrayal and a violent revenge. Add in some special power. This is the only story I have a guess about who has written it. I liked this tale and was amazed that the author had written it is such a way as to make me feel like I was observing the action.

They have the evidence needed, but also a big conundrum to solve. I will be most interested in seeing how they solve the problem. I wonder if any of the possible solutions in the comments will be in play.

I have my own defenses.

Might I also suggest some of the beautiful carnivorous orchid to add you your guards. They also take care of tiny pests.

Hi Albert!

Levis are probably better protection for the butt, but I like the way Wranglers fit the butt better. They boys have a plan, but it does entail risks. If they get the help of the janitor it could be much less risky. I also think that the boys should tell Ethan's father about the movie and who was in attendance. I'm anxious to see if they can get the movie without bringing down more misery on themselves. The birthday was a wonderful way for the family to show they care about Wayne. I suspect that Ethan's dad plans on helping Wayne through college based on what he said to Wayne. The visit with Wayne's father went well. As for the last thing he said to Wayne, I don't understand what is meant, but feel in may have several levels of meaning.

Proctologist = Professional Pain in the Ass Claims Adjuster = Professional Nay Sayer Educator = Licensed mind manipulator (Although some could be classified as highly effective sleeping pills.)

Some good and some bad was a very appropriate theme in the chapter. I might add there was some stupid in the mix. The trip to the prison was mostly good. The talk Ethan and his dad has was beautiful. I also like the fact that Ethan could assure his father that Ethan and Wayne were taking it slow. I think at Ethan's age, he is right to realize there is a big difference between a crush, simple lust and true love. lt is also encouraging that Wayne's father want to meet Ethan and his dad. Willy and Jerry are proving to be good friends. Jerry has a great deal of courage as shown by his willingness to tell the other three of the plans even if he gets caught. Now for the stupid, the very, very stupid. If the film is shown, it will be not only a civil offense, but with a good prosecutor a criminal offence. The 80's didn't have the tech or internet accessible by everyone. However, there were underground porn studios that made money on this kind of film illegally. Home video cameras were available to everyone. The problem is that to do the film it will take two people, Reynolds and Jackson. Showing the film to underage boys could also be viewed as recruitment. If Jerry tells what he heard, maybe some of the swim team can be persuaded to fess up to what's happening.

You were right @Ivor Slipper, I wasn't happy with what happened it the first part of the chapter. However, I was pleased with the way the boys were supported by Jerry and Willy. Also, it is great to see that dad has decided to now tackle the problem with the principal and school board. I'm almost sure that with what evidence they now have, he can at least threaten the school board with legal action. I also suspect that Willy and Jerry might be persuaded to give them more evidence and/or help in a confrontation with the school board at some point. That would bring the swim team information into play. It would be nice to see Jackson and Reynold in prison and not just dismissed from their jobs. It would also send a very clear message to a community of haters to not go beyond the confines of free speech.

Archeologists use the term when talking about digging up relics from ancient graves. It's a nice term for grave robbing. 🤔

I know I had the same reaction as I wrote the comment. The two of them would be a match made in hell.

Hi Craig! I can believe I missed this comment when you posted it. I did love both series! Obviously I am looking forward to many more in the future.

Got it! Thanks for the warning. A great story like this is great because of the range of emotions it creates for the reader. I have no problem with disliking a bunch of bigots with power! Also, unstoppable villains are a real challenge. You have filled this story with both and makes me want to rush through the story. I'm trying not to rush, but that may be a losing battle!

Hi Man! Hope your weekend is off to a good start!

You can't leave somewhere you have never been.

...cough, cough...cough...