The Temptation of Astra

Unless... It was hard to believe that anyone could be that rich. Was it possible that he could transmit images of things that did not actually exist? That doubt helped her to muster sufficient strength of will to say: Back to my original question. What would you have me do? And you might also tell me your name, if you want us to do business.

The mage hesitated for a moment before answering, perhaps not having expected further questions from her once she had seen how much wealth he had at his disposal. I am known as Lucius.

Astra noticed the way that he had phrased his answer. Did it perhaps imply that "Lucius" was an alias rather than his real name?

He continued: As to what I would have you do, I want you to teach me.

Teach you? I don't understand.

As you will no doubt have realised, I am a very powerful mage. But my magic is human magic. Dragon magic is very different, and I know very little about it. That is what I wish to learn.

I doubt whether I could teach you much. I am not a dragon by birth, and I have been one only a short time. As yet I have found out very little about what I can do. I am now reasonably adept at changing between my dragon and my human form, and I can clothe myself when human. Also I have mastered the silent speech. But that is about it. I can fly and I can breathe fire, of course, but those are not magical.

Then we can discover together what your capabilities are. Perhaps I can help you to unlock your full potential. And of course, the wealthier I can make you, the more powerful your magic should become.

1. That was a very tempting offer.

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