Double Wizard Protection

"Quite so, yes"

Uxton looked troubled. "Forgive me for saying so, Belboz, but you're much more powerful than me. What can I give you that you don't already - " He pasued, then grinned. "Of course, I see it now."

"Well, I don't!" Jastina excalimed.

"Quite simple, your majesty," Uxton replied. The other Belboz knows everything ours does - but not what I do."

"Any wizard can counteract his own spells," Belboz explained, "But it's much more difficult to counteract that of another. By mixing my spells with his, that will give us an advantage."

"Then get on with it!" Embron blurted. "Time - and the sun - is fast running out!"

"Quite right, your majesty," Belboz agreed. "Uxton?" The tow of them huddled together for a moment, then they stood on either side of Joan. Belboz began chanting something softly, and Uxton closed his eyes and crossed his hands over his chest. They stayed like this for a moment, then suddenly each raised his hands over his head and shouted something. Joan was enveloped by a flash of light, and was forced to shut her eyes against the overwhelming burst.

When she opened them again, she found her attire completely altered.

She was wearing armor of silver and bronze, over a steel mail that covered her from neck to foot. Gleaming silver boots protected her feet, and on her head was a sturdy helmet (also silver, though she couldn't tell). She was holding a shield of bronze, with a hawk, the sigil of the royal family, painted on in bright colors. A golden scabbard hung by her side. She drew the sword forth in silent admiration. It was balanced perfectly, and the fine cutting edge shone a bright white, even in the dimming light.

"Well?" Uxton asked.

"It's - it's perfect. Thank you. And thank you as well, Belboz." Joan sheathed her sword and turned to face Ecstasy. "So - I suppose we should go, then."

1. "I'll fly you over the troops and we'll help rally them." Ecstasy said.
2. "Fly me straight to Arthema's camp - no sense prolonging it," said Joan grimly.
3. "A moment," Belboz said. "We should also protect her, as well."
4. Ecstasy's lower lip trembled. "I - I can't do it! I can't face Agony!" she wailed.

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