Aaralon keeps his spellbook

It took only a moment or two of thought for Aaralon to conclude that there was only one real answer. Aaralon knew he was independent, he had no special desire for companionship but what he did desire was magic and power.

"I'll keep the spellbook," Aaralon stated clearly. He knew it would also be beneficial to prove to Sareth that he was a dedicated mage and not some milksop.

"Very well," boomed the voice from the shadows, "Then you only have one more decision to make. Make this one as wisely as you made the last and you may fare well."

Four pin pricks of blue light appeared in front of Aaralon. Four beads of light which began to glow and grow into sparkling and shimmering orbs.

Sareth continued, "These are four portals. Touch one and you'll be transported to the destination beyond. You have one minute to decide or the spell will randomly throw you through one."

Aaralon knew he had to act quickly - and carefully as the globes were frightfully close to him and it seemed that one single touch would be decisive. He peered forward and inspected each globe.

The first globe appeared to show a welcome scene. Aaralon saw hanging gardens and fountains of white marble and clear water. It was bright and Aaralon could sense the heat of the place. The second globe showed a familiar scene, a fairly typical hamlet with a snow-capped mountain range behind. The third globe seemed to be unlikely, rather than a comfortable or familiar scene, the third depicted what appeared to be an hostile snow-scape and blizzard. The fourth globe depicted an empty city filled with dark and twisting alleyways.

Ah-ah, Aaralon though. It was highly likely that globes showed only the location and not people. That seemed the most likely explanation for the empty city and a typical catch a mage would be expected to notice. This would mean the apparent luxury of the fountain garden could be marred with armed and tattooed warriors, for all Aaralon knew, and the hostile snow-scape perhaps scattered with buxom, fur clad and welcoming warrior women who would keep their mage warm and safe. Indeed, the snow globe did stand out as the unlikely option.

Aaralon knew that there were many complexities here but he was also aware he only had seconds left to make a decision.