Now,” he said, “it is to be hoped that all of you understand the importance of the Makaris. Aaron has a responsibility to the larger world. He alone can undo the damage that the self-styled Enemy of Death has wrought, free the land from the threat of Chaos-ridden animals, and protect us from the shadows. He must make certain that the Treaty continues to be upheld so that peace can prevail.” At this, the Assembly member allowed himself a dark look in Master Rufus’s direction.
Aaron swallowed visibly. “Thank you, sir. I’ll do my best.”
“But no difficult path is walked alone,” the Assembly member went on, looking out at the rest of them. “It’s going to be the responsibility of all of your fellow students to look out for you, to support you, and to defend you. It can be a heavy burden to be
