6
Immediately one of the books from Simvil’s desk appeared on Art’s chest to take the brunt of the blow while Art was knocked back against the door.
Master Simvil shrugged and said with a smile, “Well that was an improvement, wasn’t it? Get the knife out of the book, and we’ll see if your memory was scared back.”
Art, who was shaking, carefully worked the knife out, put the book back on the desk, and stumbled over to the drawer to put away the knife. His memory turned out to be back, and things went well from then on. Master Simvil called it a day a little earlier than usual, and said, “Art, you did pretty well today, but I need you to do a couple of quick chores for me.”
Art replied, “Of course, I’m an apprentice and that’s what I’m supposed to do.”
Simvil handed him the skewered boo
