First Entry-
First days are always hard. The interview went well, he even smiled once. Maybe it’s because he knew he had a new pupil to torture. Maybe it was because he saw something in me that he knows he can get out.
Things to remember:
1. “Familiars” are magical companions, not friendly acquaintances. Don’t mistake the owl for a chat buddy.
2. When Gadaric mutters to himself, it’s not an invitation for conversation. Wizards think out loud. Give them their space.
3. If a potion doesn’t work, don’t panic. Magic takes time and practice. Also, explosions are normal but don’t stand too close.
4. Address Gadaric as “Master” or “Proconsul.” Avoid “Hey” or “Yo.” This isn’t casual Friday; it’s wizardly Monday through Sunday.
5. “Mistakes are proof that you’re trying.” Today was just Day one. Tomorrow will be better. Keep the magic alive!

A few months in-
I am not sure what happened. One day I am perfecting a potion of reduction and the next he has me researching the age of the astral elves. Like a common historian. I have half a mind to take the messily stipend he pays me and go ask Elmandar if he knows anything about the early days of the astral elves.

The New Assistant-
I’m being replaced. Fuck.

The Experiment-
Gadaric has been shut off in his private study for a week now. He only wants the Fiend’s help. I’m left cataloging books and organizing the trinkets they empty out of that damn room. Even the garden goes untended. Only the wizard and that damned beast carving away at some nightmare of a spell.

Deciding to Leave-
I see the hate in his eyes, but Gadaric doesn’t believe me. He’s gone mad, paranoid at everyone except the one thing that has it out for the old wizard. Maybe I should tell the Prince… the old fool would be safer behind bars than cooped up in this damned tower with that devil. But still, the Koalitio can’t catch word of this. It’d mean the end of Bral.

Goodbye Gadaric, I’ll keep my mouth shut. It isn’t worth the effort to speak.

Abbigail Wilcox