The Day of the Light

Tenever slipped off the battered blanket and folded it neatly away, careful not to look at Sadie. Far in the distance, the disorientatingly blurry horizon swam - a constant reminder of the hostile environment they remained in.

He pulled a slim book bound in camouflage patterns from his chest rig, the motion as smooth and well-practiced as it would have been if he had reached for the Webley in its holster. The ancient sunset motif blazed, briefly and for him alone, as the covers were opened.

The arcane wellspring, hidden just below the quantum foam, enveloped him in its warm embrace. Suffused with primordial power, Tenever could feel the weight of his years fall away and he was young again before the timeless wonder of magic itself.

The wizard closed his spellbook gently. Young spellcasters were shining beacons of elemental power in the moments after gazing beyond reality, but pragmatism and age allowed Tenever only a sad smile and a fading glow at the back of his eye.

Sadie smiled back with equal sorrow.