Seducer of Souls - Chapter Two

Serge sat on an old rock, looking out across Haven Meadow.  Since returning to Han's cottage, spring had turned into early summer.  Leaves crowed the surrounding trees and wild flowers swayed in the warm breeze.
 
Serge's' strong, hansom face mirrored the turmoil from within.  Troubled thoughts of Ann swirled unabated in his mind, giving him no peace day or night.  Reaching down he stroked the sleek black tomcat that brushed against his legs.

"Hi Cat.  No doubt the old man sent you for me?"

Cat answered with a mew, then trotted off back towards the cottage that sat in the middle of the meadow.  Sighing Serge stood, hobbling slightly he followed Cat.  His grazed feet where nearly healed. However, Han's ribs that Draken's dragon had broke, where taking much longer.  He never understood why wizards could heal other people's injuries but had not the ability to heal themselves.
 
On returning to the cottage, he was annoyed to find Han sitting in his favourite chair near the fireplace.
"I told you to take it easy," he snapped.
Han flapped his hands at Serge. "Stop acting like a mother hen.  I have just been sitting here nothing more."
Serge muttered something under his breath then sat down opposite his old friend.
Han had lost some weight over the last few weeks.  The journey back from the Acropolis had been excruciating for him.  At least since returning to the cottage rest and good food had improved his situation.

Han looked at the younger man with concerned, wondering what he had decided to do about Ann.  He felt frustrated at his lack of activity; everyday he was laid up with his ribs left Ann imprisoned with Draken.
His mind wandered back to a time when he had first encountered Serge.  Serge had been an opinionated young man from the Landers Clan; his tracking abilities had impressed him even then.  But Serge's outspoken attitude had concerned him, if Draken had found out, the consequences would have been unfavourable.
When Serge had agreed to work for him and his fellow wizards, it had caused a rift in the Clan that lost Serge his betrothed.  Since then Han had viewed Serge as the son, he never had. 

"What are you thinking about?" asked Serge.
Han hesitated, drawing himself back from his memories. "I am concerned about what you are going to do about free Ann."

Turning away, Serge looked out of the window. 
Han would not let the subject drop. "You cannot get Ann away from Draken on your own.  You have no training or special abilities to help you."
Thoughtfully Serge ran his hands over his chin. "Until now I have not envied you your magical gift.  Now I would give my right arm for them."
Gazing back at Han he said, "I might be able to sneak into the Acropolis and find out if she is still alive."
Han felt frustrated that Serge had to think of such action.  The protective wards around the Acropolis denied anyone from scrying the place.
Han shook his head in frustration. "While I have breath in my body Serge I won't let you throw away your life.  Ann wouldn't want that either."

Serge's eyes flashed angrily at the mention of Ann's concern for him.
"Don't tell me I have to leave that girl to whatever evil, twisted fate Draken has planned."