I was where I needed to be, Master Grey said. And I am now.

There it was, an answer and not an answer, like always. It was enough to make Devin turn for the edge of the circle again.

You already decided not to do that, Master Grey pointed out.

How can you know what Ive decided? Devin demanded, turning back to the sorcerer.

Master Grey shrugged. This is the spot where you decide. Had you kept walking, you would not have seen me here, and I would have been forced to find… another. As it is, you realized how important destiny is, and so you turned back.

Devin thought of Lenore again, of her sitting there in the castle, of her sadness, of her beauty. It wasnt about destiny.

You may believe that, Master Grey said. I do not have that luxury.

What do you want? Devin asked. You talk in riddles, but you never say what you want out of all this.

I want what I have always wanted: what is best for this kingdom, and for humanity, Master Grey said, his expression suddenly piercing. I want you to be all that has been promised. I want what is to come to be something the world we know can survive.

And whats coming? Devin demanded.

Master Grey shook his head and sighed. Too much.

Thats not an answer.

We dont get answers! Master Grey snapped back, and it was so rare to hear him raise his voice that way that Devin took a step back in shock. Even I only get fragments of it, to piece together as best I can. We perform our parts in this, and hope that it is enough.

Devin bit back his anger. There was no point trying to argue with the magus; it would only mean more riddles, never a real answer.

And whats my part in this? he asked.

For now, Master Grey said, it is to return to the castle. There will be rooms there for you for as long as I wish it.

And then? Devin asked. Im not going back unless you tell me more.

You will, Master Grey said. For her.

He didnt need to say who he meant; they both knew. Devin didnt ask how he knew what he felt about Lenore, either. It seemed that Master Grey knew plenty of things he shouldnt.

The sorcerer stood, grasping Devin by the shoulders. Forging the first sword has taught you the skills you need, but it is just a beginning. The Unfinished Sword…the sword of all swords…it must be found. And it must be finished. And only you are made for this task.

He stepped away from Devin then, striding into the crowd. The bubble of space around him seemed to burst as soon as he stepped from it, people crowding in around Devin too tightly for him to follow the sorcerer. His mind was still reeling.